The Following is from a release by Congressman Scott Tipton’s office.

Congressman Scott Tipton and Colorado’s U.S. Export Assistance Center have teamed up to put on a premier Western Slope export 101 event.

“The West Slope has been hit especially hard during these tough economic times.  This event is a chance for employers to get valuable information on the opportunities and resources available to help their businesses grow,” Tipton said.  “Increased export opportunities translate into economic growth and new jobs.  This export 101 event aims to assist businesses with navigating the export process and expanding growth.”

What: An export forum in Western Colorado with international trade experts from the federal government and other industries to assist small businesses with export opportunities.  This event will bring together trade specialists and potential small business exporters, which could lead to new export successes. Congressman Tipton will moderate a panel of speakers that will include federal and local trade experts.  The panelists will discuss the broad export procedure and explain the resources available to assist local businesses.  Following the panelist remarks, businesses will be available to meet one-on-one with trade specialists to address specific questions.

When:  Thursday, May 3, 2012 10am-noon

Where:  Grand Junction Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way  Grand Junction, CO

Who:   Congressman Tipton, 2 trade specialists from Colorado’s U.S. Export Assistance Center, a representative from the Governor’s office of Economic Development and International Trade, the Grand Junction Business Incubator Center, the Mesa County Workforce Center, the Grand Junction Small Business Development Center, the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, the Colorado Department of Agriculture, the Delta County Workforce Center, the Montrose Economic Development Corporation, the Montrose Association of Commerce and Tourism, and lots of small businesses.

Employers are invited to attend and can RSVP to Jeff Small in Congressman Tipton’s office at jeff.small@mail.house.gov or 202-225-1405 to participate in this event. There is no fee to attend.