The Montana District Export Council is hosting a symposium Wednesday, May 23 where business owners from the Flathead Valley can learn about expanding their ventures internationally.

Presentations will be given from experts with experience in the fields of international finance and commerce, followed by a chance to network with the presenters and other local business owners in attendance.

The 2018 Flathead International Business Symposium is scheduled from 1 to 3:30 p.m., in the Arts and Technology Building Room at Flathead Valley Community College.

A time for networking and one-on-one consultations with industry officials is planned from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The officials come from the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security, Small Business Administration, Rocky Mountain Bank, Montana Manufacturing Extension Center, United States Postal Service, U.S. Import-Export Bank and the U.S. Commercial Service.

The assembled experts can provide context on trade compliance requirements, obtaining trade-related grants, short- and long-term loans, shipping and logistics and managing and implementing international marketing programs, according to a press release announcing the event.

From 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. officials from the Bureau of Industry and Security and Office of Export Enforcement will give a presentation titled “Securing America’s Trade.” The presentation will be on the challenges presented to the exporting business in the post-9/11 world.

Those interested should RSVP via email to [email protected]. There is no cost to attend.

Reporter Peregrine Frissell can be reached at (406) 758-4438 or [email protected].