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.

Louisiana Ranks 42 in Top States for Business 2012

Louisiana was scored on several measures of competitiveness, including cost of doing business, work force, quality of life, infrastructure and transportation, and technology and innovation.

The Southern United States Trade Association is working hard to make Louisiana a better state by encouraging small business owners to export their food and agriculture.

“We’re here to help American businesses take advantage of this trend by giving them the resources and guidance they need to market their products internationally,” said Jerry Hingle, CEO and Executive Director of SUSTA.

Read more about how SUSTA can offer program funds to help Louisiana:
Southern United States Trade Association Provides Export Funds

Export Assistance from SUSTA Starting August 1

Small businesses are constantly looking for new customers. Reaching a new market requires meeting new buyers, educating new customers, and advertising. Starting August 1, SUSTA will accept applications for the 2012 Market Access Program (MAP) Branded. The Branded program is designed to help food and agricultural companies enter export markets with 50% reimbursement for promotional costs, such as advertising, exhibiting at trade shows, and changes to packaging and labels. Download the Pre-Qualification Form from the SUSTA website today to double your international marketing budget for next year!

Eligible companies are small according to U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) standards, have yearly sales of at least $100,000, and promote a brand-name product that is at least 50% U.S. agricultural origin. MAP Branded is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) and administered to southern U.S. companies by SUSTA. Companies located in any of SUSTA’s member states can apply for funding: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.