Entering overseas markets
Top tips for export success
Before you make your first move into an overseas market, it's essential that you get the best advice and support for your specific business. This will increase your chances of export success. There is a range of support available to new and established businesses to help you start trading successfully outside Northern Ireland.
1. Register for training programmes: Training programmes and seminars provide an opportunity to get a feel for the potential of overseas markets. There is a range of export training and support available for you to access including:
- Going Dutch
- UK Export Academy
- InterTradeIreland Digital Sales Support
Read more about export training programmes.
2. Get in-market support: Once your business decides on your chosen market, there are numerous schemes to provide ongoing support:
- UK Tradeshow Programme
- Invest NI Trade Advisory Scheme
- Department for Business and Trade (DBT) in-market support
Read more about in-market support for exporting.
3. Do your research: It's important to know which markets offer the best fit with your business so that you can effectively target your export activity. Focused market research will increase your chances of successfully selling into markets outside Northern Ireland. Research support includes:
- Invest NI Business Information Centre
- Enterprise Europe Network
- InterTradeIreland Acumen programme
Read more about research support for exporting.
4. Get advice: There are several sources of advice for businesses in Northern Ireland wanting to trade overseas:
- Invest NI workshops, Export Development Service, Legal advice, translation services
- NI Chamber Export Documentation and Chamber Connections
Read more about advisory support for exporting.
5. Search for opportunities: Having knowledge of specific products or services that are in demand outside Northern Ireland, and keeping up-to-date on the latest contract opportunities, can help boost your business performance and profitability. You should consider:
- Invest NI Tenders Alert Service and tender guides
- NI Chamber Connecting for Growth