Why you need a business case vs. a business plan when entering international markets

Systematic and strategic planning makes all the difference between success and failure when entering international markets. However, any plan is only as good as the foundation it is built on. Here we examine why the default business plan may not be enough when entering international markets.

Brent McNiven, CITP|FIBP

Brent is an international trade consultant with nearly 25 years of experience. After starting and running several successful companies in South America, and working on different consulting projects across the world, he has spent the past 10 years working with Canadian SMEs to help them excel in global markets.

4 lessons learned on starting and growing a career in international business

It seems that for the most part of recent history, there is never a good time to be starting a career, unless of course you…

Floyd Simpkins

A strong leader in the international business community, Floyd Simpkins, CITP has been contributing to trade and development for over three decades. His career spans both the public and private sector, as he has worked to promote trade and investment for the government of Ontario, helped individual businesses achieve global success, and positively impacted hundreds of careers by serving as a college and university professor. Floyd has also played an instrumental role in the development of the FITTskills curriculum.

How trade advisors can help today’s exporters to go global

Our current trade environment provides a perfect opportunity to refocus the way trade advisors and trade promotion organization serve their clients’ needs.

John Treleaven, CITP|FIBP

John Treleaven is Principal and founder of The Treleaven Consulting Group. He has spent 32 years in the Canadian Foreign Service working abroad and in Ottawa in a variety of positions with a trade and economic focus. He is an expert in Canadian international trade and is focused on improving trade in Canada based on business friendly local communities.

EDC-FITT student internship creates opportunity to get real-world experience

Find out how the EDC-FITT student internship program is helping an aspiring global trade professional to develop her career.

Nicole Chevrier

I am a digital media writer and a Content Marketing Specialist with the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT). My background is in digital marketing and communications. Creating content that inspires, informs or delivers on results is my passion.

How to get or build a career in global trade

We asked the experts how to get or build a career in global trade. Get the insider scoop from successful entrepreneurs and global business leaders.

Nicole Chevrier

I am a digital media writer and a Content Marketing Specialist with the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT). My background is in digital marketing and communications. Creating content that inspires, informs or delivers on results is my passion.

#TradeElite chat recap: Women entrepreneurs share their secrets of success

Discover useful and insightful career and business tips shared by successful women entrepreneurs and female global trade professionals.

Nicole Chevrier

I am a digital media writer and a Content Marketing Specialist with the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT). My background is in digital marketing and communications. Creating content that inspires, informs or delivers on results is my passion.

3 ways you will benefit from career mentorship

How can you find the right mentor for your career and why is it important? Take advantage of the 3 major benefits of mentorship.

Jeff Jones

Jeff Jones is a devoted career specialist, helping students and people in making the right career choice and developing realistic goals. When he is not helping others, you can find him exploring nature.

Why business development needs to be a company mindset, rather than just a department

A business development mindset suggests a proactive management style, with a commitment to always seek ways to prospect for business – be it “new” or old. 

Ennio Vita-Finzi, CITP|FIBP

Ennio Vita-Finzi is a Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) and was a Trade Commissioner in Europe, Latin America and the US as well as President of the Canadian Council for the Americas during NAFTA negotiations. He has been a multinational executive and entrepreneur and is now a College lecturer, keynote speaker, and author based in Montreal. (e.vita-finzi@sympatico.ca)