Trade Missions Target New England

Nova Scotia's recent success in markets south of the border is leading to a new series of trade missions with an emphasis on New England.

"New England is the most important American market for Nova Scotia exporters," said Premier Russell MacLellan. "Nova Scotian companies are seeing great success in New England as a result of recent trade missions. It makes good sense to step up our efforts in this market."

In particular, the province's Economic Development and Tourism department has significantly increased the number of trade delegations to Boston this year.

Later this week, eight Nova Scotian business women will head to the Massachusetts city and kick off the first of five trade missions and trade shows over the next few months. Participants, whose businesses range from management consulting to health products to antiques, will spend two days meeting with potential clients, exploring opportunities and creating partnerships.

"The women entrepreneurs' trade mission recognizes the growing impact of women on the Nova Scotia economy," said Premier MacLellan. "This program underscores our commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and creating opportunities to bring their products and services to new markets."

A 1997 economic impact study of women business owners in Atlantic Canada indicates that women entrepreneurs generate more than $2 billion in annual sales revenues and employ 175,000 people. More than 30 per cent conduct business internationally and 40 per cent plan to expand, listing exporting among future goals.

With a solid client base in Nova Scotia, Peggy Issenman is looking to expand her graphic design business. "The timing is good for me now," she said. "Exporting for me is cost-effective because I can e-mail design work or send it on a CD. And as a result of the exchange rates, potential clients in the United States get the talent, but at a lesser cost."

Upcoming trade missions to New England will focus on ocean technology, biotechnology, architecture and engineering. Premier MacLellan will lead an information technology mission, held in conjunction with the annual tree-lighting ceremony in Boston in December. A mission involving the Black Business Initiative, the second of its kind, will coincide with Black History Month early next year.

The missions, slated from September 1998 to February 1999, will draw businesses from across the province. Nova Scotia will also be represented at major trade shows and events in New England and host a business delegation from Massachusetts.

Four trade missions to Boston in the first half of 1998 generated close to $20 million in sales for 30 businesses. So far this year, all missions abroad have generated more than $60 million in sales and commitments for Nova Scotian companies.