Export Success Program Returns to UToledo to Support Regional Business Growth and Global Expansion

Export Success Program Returns to UToledo to Support Regional Business Growth and Global Expansion

Export Success, a proven training program designed to help businesses expand into international markets, is returning to The University of Toledo.

The program will be administered by the John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation and UToledo Family Business Center, in partnership with Regional Growth Partnership Northwest Ohio and with support from the U.S. Commercial Service and the U.S. Department of Commerce's Northern Ohio District Export Council.

Export Success is a 10-session cohort-based program that equips companies with the tools, knowledge and connections needed to successfully enter and grow in global markets. The next cohort will launch in January 2027, with a public promotion event scheduled for August 2026.

Originally started more than a decade ago at UToledo, Export Success has helped more than 60 companies across Northwest Ohio strengthen their export strategies and expand internationally, including organizations such as Bionix, NAMSA, BioFit, SmartSolve, Surface Combustion and Kripke Enterprises. The program's strong track record contributed to the region earning the prestigious President's E Award for Export Services in 2024.

"The return of Export Success represents an exciting opportunity to reconnect the University with the international business community in our region," said Angie Jones, director of the UToledo Family Business Center. "We are proud to build on the program's success and continue supporting companies as they pursue growth beyond U.S. borders."

The program will provide participating companies with expert-led instruction on key topics such as market entry strategy, international sales, export financing, logistics and compliance. In addition to structured sessions, participants will gain access to mentorship, market research tools and connections to state and federal export resources.

A distinguishing feature of the program at UToledo is the integration of business students into the experience. Companies will have the opportunity to work directly with students studying international business, creating a mutually beneficial partnership that combines real-world application with academic learning.

"Export Success creates a powerful connection between our students and the business community," said Dr. Elizabeth Napier, associate professor of international business & marketing. "Students gain hands-on experience, while companies benefit from fresh perspectives and research support. It's a model that strengthens both our talent pipeline and our regional economy."

By helping companies expand globally, Export Success plays an important role in driving regional economic growth. Participants have consistently reported meaningful increases in export activity, with some companies experiencing significant gains following completion of the program.

"Programs like Export Success are critical to the continued growth of Northwest Ohio," said Paul Zito, Vice President of International Development RGP Northwest Ohio. "By equipping businesses with the knowledge and resources to compete globally, we are strengthening the entire region."

Companies interested in participating in the January 2027 cohort are encouraged to learn more and express interest early. An information event will take place in August 2026.

Businesses can reach out to Angie Jones ([email protected]) or Paul Zito ([email protected]) with any questions or interest in participating in the program.