Press Release

For Immediate Release
April 6, 2010

Congressman Crowley Hosts Seminar for

Local Businesses

Crowley Brings U.S. Department of Commerce & Small Business Administration to NY-7 to Help NY Businesses Expand their reach into Global Markets

Queens, NY – Today, Congressman Joseph Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx) hosted a seminar for business leaders from the Bronx and Queens to learn more about how the Federal government can assist them in exporting their goods and services throughout the world.  President Obama has set a goal of doubling U.S. exports over the next five years, and the Federal government has created several programs to help American businesses expand their reach into overseas markets.  The seminar, which took place at LaGuardia Community College in Queens, was attended by several local businesses. 

“I want to thank the Department of Commerce and Small Business Administration for providing businesses in the Bronx and Queens with resources and tips to expand their reach into the global market place,” said Congressman Crowley.  “By opening up new markets to American goods and services, we will help U.S. businesses increase their bottom line and hire new workers.”

Recent statistics compiled by the Department of Commerce show that exports are an important part of New York’s economy.  In 2007, a total of 27,329 companies exported goods from New York locations, the third-highest number among the 50 states. Of those, 94 percent, or 25,657 firms, were small and medium-sized enterprises with fewer than 500 employees.  More than one-fifth (20.9 percent) of all manufacturing workers in New York depend on exports for their jobs. 

“While New York is already helping to lead the pack in U.S. exports, there is still significant room for growth.  Less than 1% of U.S. companies send their goods and services abroad, and of those that do, 58% export to just one country.  I want to make sure that small businesses and future entrepreneurs in the Bronx and Queens get in on the action, and have the resources they need to learn how to export.” said Congressman Crowley.

The U.S. Department of Commerce maintains dozens of export assistance centers across the United States and throughout the world.  Businesses interested in exporting can contact the office serving Harlem, Queens and the Bronx at: http://www.buyusa.gov/harlem/. 

Congressman Crowley is a six-term member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, which has jurisdiction over U.S. export policies.

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