MEDIA ADVISORY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 18, 2007

Contact: Stacey Swank

Pinellas County Economic Development

(727) 464-7425 or sswank@pinellascounty.org

Discount for First Forty Small Companies to Register for the

2007 National District Export Council Conference

CLEARWATER, Florida – September 18, 2007 - Pinellas County Economic Development today announced a 60 percent discount off the registration price of the 2007 National District Export Council Conference for the first forty small companies to register at www.decconference.com.  Smaller companies can realize a savings of over $150 off the regular conference registration price of $395.

Funding to facilitate the discounted rates for smaller businesses was provided by a Florida International Business Expansion Initiative (FIBEI) matching grant from Enterprise Florida.  The Tampa Bay Partnership and Pinellas County Economic Development worked jointly on the proposal to further advance international trade and direct foreign investment in the region. 

The 2007 National District Export Council Conference will take place November 7-9, 2007, at the Hyatt Regency Tampa.  International business professionals from across Florida and the United States will connect with global business leaders and trade officials.   Delegates will hear informative speakers and network with up to five hundred international business professionals, manufacturers, service providers and trade organizations.  There will also be an exhibition for businesses wishing to showcase services and products for exporters, as well as a one-on-one matchmaking initiative.

The Conference will feature award winning journalist Gene Randall moderating “The Great Debate: The Future of U.S. Trade,” which will provide insight into conducting business throughout the world in a period of political and economic uncertainty.  U.S. Department of Commerce Commercial Officers from U.S. Embassies in the Middle East and Latin America will deliver up-to-date information on developing opportunities for U.S. business.  Private consultations are available on a first-come, first-served basis and appointments are filling up quickly.

For details, reservations and registration interested participants should visit www.decconference.com.