A woman speaks during World Trade Day at Bryant University. The Business Entrepreneurship Leadership Center at Bryant University. A group of people hold up certificates inside the Business Entrepreneurship Leadership Center. A man speaks to another man during a trade show. A group of men in suits look at models of fighter jets.
A woman speaks during World Trade Day at Bryant University. The Business Entrepreneurship Leadership Center at Bryant University. A group of people hold up certificates inside the Business Entrepreneurship Leadership Center. A man speaks to another man during a trade show. A group of men in suits look at models of fighter jets.

John H. Chafee Center for International Business

The John H. Chafee Center for International Business is Rhode Island’s designated agency for world trade and export activities. For over 40 years, the center has been committed to growing Rhode Island’s local economy through a global reach.

Through partnerships with Rhode Island Commerce, the Small Business Administration, local government, and trade organizations, the Chafee Center encourages global business expansion, retention, and attraction. It administrates the SBA’s State Trade and Expansion Program (STEP Grant), providing access to funding for small businesses.

The Chafee Center’s other programs include international trade missions and shows, strategic consulting, market research, and broad-based events. The center works closely with faculty, staff, and students to provide customized business consulting services to Rhode Island-based enterprises.

Global Trade Summit: Sept. 25-26, 2025

The Global Trade Summit, formerly World Trade Day, is Rhode Island’s premier event dedicated to shaping the future of international trade. It brings together the expertise of business leaders, government officials, and academics to focus on strategic insights, collaboration, and professional development.

Register Today
A stock photo image of a handshake with some icons and trade imagery.
Several businesses table during World Trade Day at Bryant University.
The Global Trade Summit logo.
A castle on the shore of Limerick, Ireland.
Waves crash on the shore of County Clare in Ireland.
Wind ripples through the Irish flag.

Unlock Global Opportunities in Ireland’s Innovation Hub

Join the Rhode Island Trade Mission to Shannon, Ireland, January 19–22, 2026! Connect with industry leaders in marine technology, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and biotechnology. Enjoy personalized business meetings, exclusive networking, and site visits—at no cost to qualifying small businesses. Expand exports, access EU markets, and forge lasting partnerships in one of Europe’s top innovation hubs.

Apply Today

Expand Your Wood Product Exports

Ready to grow your Rhode Island wood product exports? The Branded Program offers 50% reimbursement on international marketing costs—from trade shows to digital ads. If you're a small business with U.S.-made wood products, this is your chance to expand globally. Get pre-qualified today and start reaching new markets!

Get Pre-Qualified Today
A stack of timber.
A group of wooden products.
State Trade Expansion Program
Ben Weinstein
Ben Weinstein speaks to a group about the STEP grant at a podium inside the Business Entrepreneurship Leadership Center.

‘Ask Me Anything’ with Ben Weinstein

Ben Weinstein, director of the STEP Grant, will be hosting an “Ask Me Anything” Zoom call on the second Wednesday of every month to answer your questions about the STEP Grant.

Register Today