Businesses in Maricopa, Pinal and Pima counties have a new opportunity to gain attention for their export efforts. Businesses that export are encouraged to apply for the new Sun Corridor Export Recognition Program, which opens today. The program seeks to raise awareness about the importance of exports in the region’s economy and to connect businesses with resources that can help them increase and improve their bottom line through exporting, according to a press release.

“Exports, especially to Mexico, support 100,000 jobs in Arizona, but that number should really be a lot higher,” Mayor Greg Stanton, who chairs the Maricopa Association of Governments Regional Council and serves as vice chair of the MAG Economic Development Committee, said in the release. “We want to help businesses looking to increase profits and create more stable, higher-paying jobs. We know that opening new markets in other countries leads to increased revenue and provides more resilient, higher-end employment here at home.”

Any exporting business—whether emerging, proficient, or expert—can apply by visiting www.jpacaz.org. An evaluation team will assess each business in four categories, including Overall Export Achievement (one business recognized from each of the three counties). Additional categories exist for Veteran, minority, or woman owned businesses. All applicants will be introduced to programs in the community that can increase their exporting. The top scoring businesses from each of the three counties will be recognized at the Sun Corridor EDGE (Economic Development for the Global Economy) event on May 19. The public is invited to attend the event and hear from the top scoring businesses, speakers on international trade, and videos featuring the top scoring businesses.

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