Chelsea Trade Commission

The Chelsea Trade Commission is a dedicated organization focused on empowering small businesses to expand their reach into global markets through export promotion. By offering a range of tailored services, we help U.S.-based companies navigate the complexities of international trade, from identifying key opportunities to overcoming regulatory hurdles. Our goal is to ensure that small businesses, which form the backbone of the American economy, have the tools and resources they need to thrive in foreign markets.

The Chelsea Trade Commission operates as a dynamic Public-Private Partnership, aligned with the White House's economic development plan to bolster the U.S. small business landscape and expand international trade. By combining public sector goals with private sector innovation, the Commission creates unique strategies and incentives that promote the export of American products and services to foreign markets. Our approach includes offering tailored incentives, such as export grants, trade facilitation services, and access to international trade fairs, ensuring that small businesses can overcome barriers to entry and thrive globally. Through these efforts, we are committed to driving economic growth, enhancing the competitiveness of U.S. businesses abroad, and reinforcing the strength of the American small business sector.

The Chelsea Trade Commission also operates a robust liaising program that connects U.S. small businesses with local, regional, and national chambers of commerce to strengthen export opportunities. By fostering collaboration between businesses and chambers of commerce, we provide a platform for companies to access critical resources, including networking events, trade missions, and market intelligence. This program allows businesses to tap into a broader support network, leveraging the expertise and advocacy of chambers of commerce to navigate international markets more effectively. Our close partnerships with these organizations ensure that small businesses receive comprehensive guidance and support throughout their export journey.

One of our standout initiatives is the Women Exporter Program, a specialized effort aimed at supporting women-owned businesses in their export endeavors. Through mentorship, education, and access to global networks, the program seeks to reduce barriers and equip women entrepreneurs with the skills necessary to compete internationally. The Chelsea Trade Commission recognizes the importance of gender inclusivity in trade and is committed to fostering a more diverse and equitable export landscape.

In addition to promoting small businesses broadly, the Chelsea Trade Commission has a unique focus on U.S. states that are landlocked, recognizing the challenges these regions face in accessing traditional trade routes. By working closely with businesses in these areas, we help them develop innovative strategies to connect with global markets, leveraging modern transportation and logistics solutions. This focus ensures that companies in landlocked states are not left behind in the race to export, enabling them to compete on the international stage.

Apply to Attend the 2025 SelectUSA Investment Summit!

​​​​​​Join us for the 2025 SelectUSA Investment Summit happening May 11-14, 2025 in National Harbor, Maryland! The SelectUSA Investment Summit is the premier event in the United States for FDI promotion, learn more and register now.