A free workshop in Sheldon next week is aimed at helping Northwest Iowa businesses better understand how global trade tools could impact their bottom line.
The Foreign-Trade Zone #288 workshop, hosted by Iowa State University’s Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) along with regional partners, will introduce companies to a program designed to improve cash flow, reduce tariffs, and increase competitiveness.
Marc Schneider, a project manager with CIRAS, says a foreign-trade zone gives businesses another option when handling imported goods. He explains how it works.
Schneider says that creates opportunities for businesses.
He says that there are also cash flow benefits.
The program is particularly useful for companies with a high level of international activity, including manufacturers, distributors, and businesses that import large quantities of goods.
Schneider says the goal of the workshop is to help businesses better understand the program.
He adds that attendees will walk away with a better understanding of whether a foreign-trade zone could benefit their specific operation and what steps to take next if it does.
Schneider says the event is also a chance for businesses to learn more at no cost and decide if the program is worth exploring further.
The workshop will be held on Wednesday, April 1st, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Northwest Iowa Community College (Building C) in Sheldon. Lunch will be provided, and attendance is free.
