EXIM Names University of Georgia SBDC International Trade Center REPP Member of the Year for Expanding Small Business Export Access
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) has named the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (UGA SBDC) International Trade Center as the REPP Member of the Year, recognizing more than a decade of partnership and impact in connecting U.S. small businesses to export financing tools and global market opportunities.
A long-standing member of EXIM’s Regional Export Promotion Program (REPP) for over 10 years, the UGA SBDC International Trade Center has consistently integrated EXIM products into its export education and outreach efforts across Georgia. Through bimonthly export seminars, statewide training programs, and major regional events, the Center has helped ensure that small businesses across the state are aware of and able to access EXIM-supported financing solutions.
"Expanding access to export finance for small businesses across this country depends on having strong local partners who know their communities and can connect exporters to the resources they need, and UGA SBDC International Trade Center's work is a model for exactly how that should work,” said EXIM President and Chairman John Jovanovic.
The Center has also worked closely with EXIM staff to deliver joint webinars, presentations, and coordinated outreach during World Trade Month and through the ExportGA training program. These efforts have resulted in direct referrals of small business exporters to EXIM, as well as additional indirect pipeline development through its statewide network.
UGA SBDC ITC’s outreach has helped exporters that have gone on to achieve national recognition, including the SBA’s 2024 National Exporter of the Year, as well as multiple firms recognized by EXIM for export success. Its sustained advocacy and hands-on engagement have made it a key connector between small businesses and export finance resources.
“For over forty years, the UGA ITC has proudly worked with EXIM Bank, first as a City-State Partner and then as a REPP,” said Darrel Hulsey, Director of the International Trade Center. “Together, we have helped Georgia companies take advantage of needed EXIM services such as trade credit insurance and loans. EXIM Bank personnel, both locally and nationally, have exhibited the most professional, helpful and creative attitudes possible. This relationship exemplifies how different organizations that have the same mission of serving exporters can collaborate to provide meaningful impact.”
Through its consistent promotion of EXIM services and measurable impact on small business export growth, the UGA SBDC International Trade Center exemplifies the mission of the REPP network.
ABOUT EXIM:
As the United States government’s official export credit agency, the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) supports American jobs by facilitating U.S. exports. As an independent agency, EXIM plays a critical role in supporting economic growth, securing critical supply chains, and ensuring American businesses are given a fighting chance. To achieve this mission, EXIM offers financing including export credit insurance, working capital guarantees, loan guarantees, and direct loans. Learn more at www.exim.gov.
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