Special to the Leader & Times
The International Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce recently announced it will begin a monthly Kansas Exporters Roundtable series in July. With three-quarters of potential customers located outside of the United States, Commerce will visit 12 cities across the state and offer assistance for small- to medium-sized Kansas companies.
“When considering whether or not to start exporting, consider viewing it as essentially expanding your business’ storefront to the entire world,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Exporting can bring a much wider customer base, which directly translates into increased sale numbers and profits.”
Hosted by the Kansas Commerce International Division, the Kansas Exporters Roundtable events are a collaboration with the U.S. Commercial Service and the Small Business Administration (SBA). Each partner entity will have a representative presenting on export topics such as:
• How exporting can increase sales revenue
• Information on export financial assistance
• Export success stories or unique lessons
“Because of our central location, available transportation and intermodal services, Kansas is an ideal state for manufacturing many high-quality products and services,” International Division Director Laura Lombard said. “The International team is equipped with top-notch staff members and numerous resources to help businesses expand sales and increase exports. I encourage you stop by one of the roundtables and see how Commerce can assist you and your business.”
The Kansas Exporters Roundtable series schedule for 2024-2025:
• Salina, 10 a.m., Monday, Aug. 19
• Hugoton, 10 a.m., Friday, Sept. 6
• McPherson, 9 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 8
• Wichita, 8 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 20
• Manhattan, 12 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 11
• Seneca, 12 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025
• Lawrence, 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025
• Olathe, 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 4, 2025
• Colby, 11 a.m., Tuesday, April 15, 2025
• Dodge City, 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 16, 2025
• Hays, 12 p.m., Friday, April 25, 2025
• Pittsburg, 8 a.m., Tuesday, May 6, 2025
• Emporia, 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 7, 2025
• Leavenworth-Lansing, 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 25, 2025
For any questions about the series, contact April Chiang at
To learn more about exporting, visit the Kansas Department of Commerce International Web site at https://www.kansascommerce.gov/international/.
About the Kansas Department of Commerce
As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.
