Montreal Trade Mission

September 30, 1999

This mission is an excellent example of what can be accomplished through cooperation between federal, state, and local public agencies, as well as private initiatives.  World Trade Center/Tampa Bay who led the recruitment efforts also led the mission.  The Canadian American Business Council organized andn promoted the mission.  Enterprise Florida funded the mission through the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce.  Pinellas County Economic Development also participated in the mission and many companies benefited from the excellent services provided by the Gold Key Program of the US Department of Commerce in Montreal.

As stated by Mr. Donald Businger, the Consul -- Commercial Affairs of the Montreal Office of the US Consulate, "For a first time event, this trade mission was extremely well organized and productive and CS Montreal is drafting 3 success stories.  Actual sales were $700,000, projected sales just shy of $4 million."  In fact, the participants enjoyed a breakfast briefing at the US Consulate put on by Don Businger, as well as a reception at the residence  of the Consul General in Montreal.  This, along with the matchmaking services, were all part  of the Gold Key Program funded through the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce from the Enterprise Florida grant.  This added significantly to teh achievements of the participating businesses  and universities. In addition to the sales volume, the University of South Florida and University of Tampa made significant progress with universities in Montreal for faculty, student and cultural exchanges.

Our WTC/TB booth won "best of show" at the 15th International Business World Exhibition.  For this, Mr. Parker, as the leader of the mission, was awarded an artwork to be placed in glass at the entry of the new World Trade Center.  This is attributed in no small part to the three Gasparilla Pirates who enhanced our booth and reception "Tampa Bay Business; Cruising for Treasures."  Over 150 guests attended our reception.

Tampa      ·      Toronto      ·      Montreal      ·      Miami     ·      Washington, D.C.

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