Infographic: SUSTA MAP Branded Program from Start to Finish

The MAP Branded Program can seem confusing to those who have never participated before. There are many steps involved in the application alone, and more steps to follow once you are accepted. However, the program's benefits and funding far outweigh the initial confusion. Don't be overwhelmed by the process, instead, refer to this infographic to help you stay on target and reap the benefits of being a MAP Branded Program participant. This infographic explains the program from start to finish.

For more details, visit SUSTA's MAP Branded Process page.

New Video: How to Evaluate a Distributor

In our last video, we showed you the various ways exporters can find importers, distributors and agents. But once you find a distributor, how do you know if they are right for your company? SUSTA has you covered.

Our next video shows you what you need to know in order to properly evaluate your distributor before hiring them. Grab a pen and notepad, and take notes!



For more detailed information on what to look for in a distributor, visit our website:
Evaluating a Distributor | SUSTA.org

Southern United States Trade Association Honored by the USDA

Here at SUSTA, we're always striving to make a difference in the lives of small business owners and farmers in the hopes of creating a stronger southern economy. Day after day our team works hard to help these small businesses flourish, and we are rewarded when we see southern products become successful in overseas markets, and when our efforts are recognized. We are very proud to say that our efforts were recognized this month by the USDA.

"The Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA) recently was awarded the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s “Secretary’s Honor Award,” the highest award granted by the department, for its role in helping small businesses increase exports of American food and agriculture." – HeraldOnline.com

This is the first year that we received an honor such as this, and we are very excited to uphold this recognition by working harder than ever. If you'd like to be a part of this great success, visit our page About the Southern United States Trade Association to learn about all our activities.  

 
Jerry Hingle
Executive Director and CEO
Southern United States Trade Association 

Read more here: http://www.heraldonline.com/2012/10/15/4338773/southern-us-trade-association.html#storylink=cpy"

Jerry Hingle on Exporting for Small Farmers

Our Executive Director, Jerry Hingle, was featured on TradingCharts.com in an interview about the difficulties farmers face when finding the right foreign market for their product. For many small farmers in the south, resources are limited, and the thought of exporting their goods to an unknown foreign market is intimidating. That's when Jerry Hingle proposes seeking SUSTA's help.

"Arkansas is in the middle of a "golden era" of agricultural exports, as its producers are finding markets throughout the world for products such as rice, poultry and cotton, as well as value-added products like sauces and condiments. He said the state has seen a 60 percent increase in exports over the past five years."

Mr. Hingle goes on to explain that China is the top export market for Arkansas:

"'They like our food,' he said, adding the regulations under which food is prepared and imported are more strict than those in place in China, resulting in a higher quality product. 'U.S. food is considered safe and is in demand.' He expects that demand to increase as China's middle class advances."

Read more from the article to learn about the benefits of exporting your small business at: Jerry Hingle on TradingCharts.com