Welcome to the Welsh International Business Council
Today, more than ever, businesses need to look further afield for development opportunities and nowhere more than in Wales is this true. In an effort to survive, organisations need as much support as they can get in identifying suitable opportunities. The Wales International Business Council (WIBC) plays its part by acting as a signposting facility and opening up its extensive international network of contacts to its members.
The WIBC was formed to continue the valuable work carried out by the Directors of the Wales North America Business Council in Wales which was established in 1999. Having undertaken independent research to identify the needs of Welsh businesses today, it was agreed there was a need to extend the remit for creating international business links to a wider global network. The WIBC exists to position Wales as a country that recognises the importance of international business and create a network for international companies and indigenous business in Wales, particularly small medium enterprise companies, wishing to explore international business opportunities.
The purpose of the WIBC is to:
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establish a welcoming business network for foreign direct investment in Wales
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provide an international learning skills network for SME's in Wales
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establish business to business links between SME's and international companies
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provide a network between SME's in Wales and key countries such as North America, the Commonwealth and Europe
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bring together the perspectives of business, academia and civic society in Wales to add value to our work
A recent European Commission report highlighted the massive potential of SME's as contributors to the development of local economies through internationalisation. Commentators in Wales have highlighted that we lag behind the rest of the UK in terms of export performance and its clear this signals the need for a new approach in Wales towards international business and global perspectives. We are therefore aiming our efforts directly at international projects and trade. There are many countries keen to develop strong relationships with Welsh companies as a gateway to European markets and the WIBC can open doors to work with companies wishing to leverae European market share.
If you are looking for such opportunities and wish to develop international contacts for your business please contact us to discuss how WIBC involvement can support your existing marketing and development strategies. For full information on WIBC activities call us on 02920 090041.