A major push for businesses to explore markets outside the EU has been launched by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC). And a prime target for the European Commission-funded initiative will be the US, with UK companies being urged to attend the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas in January.

In a move designed to help small and medium-sized businesses in Europe to go global, the newly-launched Ready2Go programme will provide financial assistance for a limited number of UK companies and they must apply by 31 March.

The initiative, which will also focus on Canada, Chile, India and Cameroon, is backed by the International Business Hub at GBCC.

Companies taking part in this exclusive programme will undergo the development of a bespoke “internationalisation” business plan; a three-day individual training and coaching programme, including advice about the culture and customs in each country; two-day collective training; and pre-arranged meetings in their chosen countries.

It is open to companies from multiple sectors, including agro-food, creative industries, environment, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, ICT, intelligent energy, key enabling technologies, material, nano and micro-technologies, retail and services, sustainable construction, textile and fashion wood and furniture.

The USA opportunity will include support to prepare for the CES, which for 50 years has been the launch pad for innovation and technology that has changed the world.

Held in Las Vegas every year, it is the world’s gathering place for all who thrive on the business of consumer technologies and where next-generation innovations are introduced to the marketplace.

Rupi Nandra, head of international programmes for the GBCC’s International Hub, said: “This EC project had been developed by a consortium led by the Milan Chamber in collaboration with the Enterprise Europe Network. “Ready2Go is a new programme designed to give SMEs the necessary tools for success abroad.

“In today’s world the international marketplace is no longer reserved for big corporations and it’s vital that SMEs step in, especially in the light of Brexit and the changing political climate in the US.

“But setting up shop abroad is not easy, which is why Ready2Go is looking to help dynamic SMEs in Europe to successfully go global.

“We would strongly encourage businesses in the West Midlands and across the UK who are interested in joining the Ready2Go programme to register early because only 80 companies from all over Europe will be selected to take part.”

Sunny Claire, business advisor, Enterprise Europe Network, adds: “The CES event in Las Vegas is a tremendous opportunity to see the latest electronic technology in one of the biggest exhibitions of its kind. Delegates get the opportunity to tap into this global market, in many ways, including investment, selling or distribution.

“We urge businesses in the Greater Birmingham region who are interested in joining the  Ready2Go programme to register early because only 80 companies from all over Europe will be selected to take part.”