Calgary International Business Week
Background:
Trade Team Alberta provides through its members a range of products and services that are of interest to the private sector. TTA actively seeks out other organizations interested in international business development for partnering.
The Initiative:
Calgary International Business Week, which took place from May 10th to 14th, 2004 offered an excellent opportunity for Trade Team Alberta to collaborate with the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, the City of Calgary, several local experienced exporters and service providers, such as HSBC, in providing information to the private sector. TTA's Michael Willmott was part of the organizing team and coordinated one session for the week. Jessie Hislop, the co-chair of the Steering Committee gave a presentation on services that governments provide. Bob Fox of the Secretariat gave a presentation on competitive intelligence gathering at trade shows.
The Results:
The overall input of Trade Team Alberta was positive. Mr. Willmott's time and effort resulted in a well-attended morning session on May 11th. Attendance at the two TTA presentations was good with nearly 50 taking part in the functions. There were a number of important inquiries from small and medium sized enterprises as well as post-secondary institutions. In one case, the company asked for specific assistance in identifying trade shows and developing objectives. In another, the principle was interested in learning how to "work a show" but also wanted information on mentoring. The post-secondary institution asked if there would be assistance in teaching the competitive intelligence course (or parts of it) through a Calgary university. Talks have begun on how to make that happen.
Conclusion:
Partnering with the Calgary Chamber of Commerce for Calgary International Business Week 2004 proved to be successful for both sides. Trade Team Alberta's support at the organizational level was of significant value while the two presentations were well received by attendees indicated their interest with questions that lasted for nearly 90 minutes in one session. Finally, there were at least three instances where there was specific follow up requested by an organization.
If you would like additional information on Trade Team Alberta's participation in Calgary International Business Week, please contact:
Michael Willmott, Industry Canada
Telephone: 403.292-4577
or
Bob Fox, Trade Team Alberta Secretariat
c/o Alberta International, Intergovernmental & Aboriginal Relations
4th Floor, Commerce Place
10155 - 102 Street
Edmonton AB Canada T5J 4L6
Telephone: 780.707-0700
Updated: July 2004
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