John H. Chafee Center for International Business
John H. Chafee Center for International Business
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The Chafee Center at Bryant University was named after the late U.S. senator from Rhode Island, John H. Chafee, a long-time advocate of international trade and the benefits of introducing new markets to our nation's businesses. The Center's mission is to foster world trade through collaboration with the University's academic programs, partnerships with state and federal entities, and outreach to the business community.
For over three decades, the Chafee Center has provided comprehensive international trade services for businesses of all sizes and industries. Services and programs include global market research, corporate training, international trade events, and strategic consulting
The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) is a national export initiative which makes matching-fund awards to states to assist small businesses in entering and expanding into international markets. Administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of International Trade, the program's objectives are to increase the number of U.S. small businesses that export and to increase the value of exports by small businesses.
The Chafee Center for International Business at Bryant University, in partnership with the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, has been awarded the STEP grant and will work with eligible RI small businesses to enroll them in this valuable program and assist them in receiving STEP funding to support their international sales efforts.
To learn more about the STEP Grant, please view the STEP Program guidelines.
If you're ready to enroll your small business in the program, please complete the SBA self-representation form and the RI STEP business profile.
Once you are enrolled in STEP and you have an eligible activity in mind, please complete the request for approval form.
Once you have received a letter of approval from the center and have completed the activity, please fill out the request for reimbursement form.
Trade Shows and Missions
Join us at international trade missions and shows organized by the Chafee Center in partnership with Rhode Island Commerce and the state of Rhode Island.
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Business Consulting
Do you need help to start exporting? Our experienced in-house staff and outside partnerships will work with you to start or expand your exports.
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Business Practica
Bryant's degree programs in IB, GSCM, and the MBA require students to complete a practicum where students work on real-world projects for individual client companies.
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Our extensive network will work with you to help you step-by-step to go global. We offer resources and incentives for international trade.
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