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IBNewsmag Highlights Four Arkansas Exporters

ROGERS — Four Arkansas companies were highlighted in the November issue of IBNewsmag, which provides breaking and in-depth news on international business for American small-business owners.

Frederick Baehner, publisher of IBNewsmag, has issued the magazine bi-monthly for the last 16 years as a way to inform entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized enterprises across the midwest about international business.

The companies, listed below, were also recently highlighted as a part of the 10-year anniversary for the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grant.

ZÜM Toyz

ZÜM Toyz, which makes creative children’s toys from recycled materials, was also honored this year as a small business All-Star for its proficiency in expanding digital business during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Aha! Interpreting Solutions

A Hispanic, woman-owned small business in Northwest Arkansas, Aha! Interpreting Solutions specializes in higher professional bilingual education. The company works closely with area hospitals, cities, state programs, adult education centers, and the business community to provide quality, affordable services.

Catfish Pro

Catfish Pro, a veteran-owned business in Springdale, has revolutionized the bait/tackle industry with their ingenuous bait that “will stay on your hook when nothing else will.” 

Galley Support Innovations

For over 60 years, GSI has been a leading manufacturer of interior hardware for planes, tranes, yachts and more. The woman owned business reached international markets thanks to STEP funding.

Access STEP funding for your business

The STEP program, implemented by the Small Business Administration in 2011, is a trade and export initiative with objectives to increase the number of small businesses that are exporting and to increase the value of exports for those small businesses that are currently exporting.

Since its creation, STEP has recorded over $3.8 billion in exports with more than 12,000 small businesses receiving grants to fund their export opportunities and increase their footprint across 141 countries.   

The World Trade Center Arkansas secures funding for eligible Arkansas companies. The awards fund export initiatives such as inbound and outbound trade missions, trade shows and exhibitions, consulting, web translations and more. For more information on applying for funds, contact Trish Watkins, our STEP Grant director.

The mission of the World Trade Center Arkansas is to grow trade and increase Arkansas exports by connecting Arkansas businesses to the world through international trade services. The Center is part of the University of Arkansas and serves as the trade promotion arm for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. For more information and valuable updates, please follow the Center on Facebook and Twitter or subscribe to the World Trade Center Arkansas newsletter.