TradeConnect Durham
Expanding Durham’s Businesses Beyond Borders
TradeConnect Durham is a six-month international trade readiness program sponsored by the City of Durham Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) in partnership with the North Carolina Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce (NCHACC).
TradeConnect Durham is a six-month international trade readiness program sponsored by the City of Durham Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) in partnership with the North Carolina Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce (NCHACC).
Program Offerings
This initiative is designed to help Durham-based entrepreneurs explore and enter global markets. Through hands-on training, expert mentorship, and access to international networks, participants will gain the tools and knowledge needed to grow their businesses beyond U.S. borders.
The program includes two cohorts, one virtual, and one in-person .
The program includes two cohorts, one virtual, and one in-person .
Identify global opportunities
Match your products or services with high-demand international markets.
Create a trade strategy
Develop a personalized import/export plan with guidance from global trade experts.
Receive targeted training
Attend workshops on logistics, compliance, cultural intelligence, and international marketing.
Explore funding options
Learn about capital resources available to support global expansion.
Build global connections
Network with vetted international partners, suppliers, and buyers.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, businesses must:
1. Businesses operating for three or more years with supporting tax documentation
2. Businesses with more than three full-time employees (Advance Cohort)
3. Not currently participating in or receiving funds from another City program, unless permitted
4. In compliance with all requirements of any prior City of Durham programs, with no history of defaults or terminations
5. Have working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
1. Businesses operating for three or more years with supporting tax documentation
2. Businesses with more than three full-time employees (Advance Cohort)
3. Not currently participating in or receiving funds from another City program, unless permitted
4. In compliance with all requirements of any prior City of Durham programs, with no history of defaults or terminations
5. Have working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Cohort Options
1. Beginner Cohort: For businesses operating for less than 3 years
2. Advanced Cohort: For businesses operating for more than 3 years
2. Advanced Cohort: For businesses operating for more than 3 years
Additional Information
Come to one of our four information sessions listed below to learn more about TradeConnect Durham. Each session will provide an overview of the program and an opportunity to ask questions directly to the organizing team. During the session, you’ll learn about:
1. Program goals and structure Eligibility and participation requirements
2. Application and selection process
3. Key program dates and timelines
4. How TradeConnect Durham can help your business expand internationally
1. Program goals and structure Eligibility and participation requirements
2. Application and selection process
3. Key program dates and timelines
4. How TradeConnect Durham can help your business expand internationally
Info Sessions Registration
Join this Info Session to learn about the TradeConnect program, including its structure, key topics, class schedule, expectations, and materials, so you understand how the program will work and how it can support your import and export goals.
In-person Begginers cohort AMIn-person Begginers cohort PMVirtual Advance cohortVirtual OpenApply for TradeConnect Durham Today!
Deadline April 6,2026
Free to join
Grow Internationally
Virtual and In Person sessions
