The Small Business Development Center at WPU kicked off 2014 by delivering a seminar series “Exploring International Trade” at the Paterson Museum. In spite of weather challenges the community came out and participated in the three sessions held on January 25th, February 1st, and February 8th. The program received an overwhelming response, with over 130 registrations, the majority being aspiring entrepreneurs and less than 10% were established businesses. The SBDC at William Paterson University awarded certificates to 95 individuals who attended all three sessions, this added to the enthusiasm and commitment from the community. This type of commitment for all three Saturday workshops is astounding, and the leaders have already started discussing what out next workshop series should be titled! I have attached two photos for you to see.
The program was organized in collaboration with the Advisory Council of the Peruvian Community of New Jersey and Pennsylvania (CCCPNJ&PA) and the General Consulate of Peru in Paterson. The sessions included presentations on how to research the markets and start a business in New Jersey, how to create an import/export business plan, and how to prepare for the challenges of international trade. Leading these sessions was Reina Valenzuela, Consultant for the Small Business Development Center at William Paterson University; the program culminated with a panel of experts in the industry, which included:
- Conrado Falco, Director of PromPeru – The Trade Office of Peru
- Enrique Jeronimo, Marketing Manager from Goya Foods
- Felix Alegria, Export Consultant
- Manfredo Morales, Project Manager from UPS
- Joseph Gonzalez, Specialist from UPS
What may have started as curiosity from some, interest from others, and demand for information by the majority, ended with an exciting celebration as several companies joined in to showcase and give us a taste of their products, including:
- Pisco Sour from CATB Inc. Imports
- Sandwiches form Incas Grill
- Manjar San Roque from Huaman Imports LLC
- Products from Goya Foods
- Peruvian Juices from RioSissa
- Coffee from OrganoGold
Check out our photo gallery so you can get an idea, but you had to be there in person to feel the energy!