The SBDC's support, guidance, connections, and training have been instrumental as our exports have grown from just a few countries to global distribution. The growing global attention has fueled awareness and excitement. We are grateful for the SBDC.

The family-owned business worked with FedEx for discounted shipping rates to enhance domestic exports and 7-day residential delivery across the U.S. Nu Chocolat can assess shipping rates based upon regions and demographics, enabling them to compete with chocolatiers across the country. With advice and guidance from their VtSBDC advisor, the Toohey family has expanded their business and is achieving their goals.

"COVID19 forced us to retool our manufacturing model. We partnered with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in St. Croix for export assistance. After evaluating several funding options, the SBDC helped identify a financial package that will drive our global development and marketing plan. I'm pleased to say that we're already gaining national notoriety with our recent appearance on Netflix's "Restaurants on the Edge" television series."

The folks at Virginia SBDC's International Business Development (IBD) program did an analysis and worked up a proposal for owner Mark Osborne and the Adroit Theory Brewing team. Then they found themselves on a trade mission to Europe where their unique and bold brand of beer was gaining traction. As Mark and his team continue to push beer boundaries, both here and overseas, they know the Virginia SBDC will be by their side for a dark, wild, and most importantly fun ride.

Small businesses working with the Washington SBDC international trade team recorded revenue of more than $56 Million in 2020, an increase of more than $15 Million over 2019.