Hoyer Hosts Make It In America Seminar with Maryland Businesses

CLINTON, MD – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) hosted a "Make It In America" forum to discuss ways to help Maryland businesses compete successfully in overseas markets. In an effort to assist local companies in conducting business abroad, this workshop brought together local businesses with export-assistance experts from the U.S. Commercial Service, U.S. Export-Import Bank, U.S. Small Business Administration, Maryland Small Business Development Center, and the Prince George's County Africa Trade Office.

"‘Make It In America' means creating the conditions for companies to make products here in the U.S. and sell them to the world—to innovate here, grow here, and create jobs here," stated Congressman Hoyer. "Encouraging companies to export is critical to improving the U.S. economy and today's forum is intended to give local businesses the tools they need to do so.  I am pleased to host today's event – bringing together local businesses with federal resources – and I will continue working to ensure that they have the assistance they need to grow, prosper, and compete successfully in the global economy."

Increasing exports is key to our continued economic recovery, but while 95% of the world's consumers live outside of the U.S., only 1% of America's 30 million companies are exporters. Of those, 58% export to only one country. However, U.S. businesses do understand the importance of increasing exports if they want to grow. In a survey of over 900 U.S. manufacturing executives, McGladrey's consulting firm found in their Spring 2011 manufacturing report that while 69% of respondents considered increasing sales in emerging markets as important to their growth strategy, only 24% planned to target these overseas markets.

"Make It In America" is a legislative initiative from House Democrats to increase American manufacturing and create new American jobs. One aspect of this agenda includes encouraging companies to innovate and build here in the U.S. and sell products abroad.

To learn about the Make It In America agenda, click here.