San Antonio Small Businesses Forge Path to Export Success
San Antonio is witnessing a wave of entrepreneurial spirit as local small businesses seek to expand their horizons beyond the U.S.-Mexico border. For many, the journey to export goods and services into Mexico is a complex mission, but those who manage to navigate the waters are in for significant rewards. Enter greater:SATX, a public-private partnership designed to assist San Antonio’s entrepreneurs in taking their first steps into global trade.
Unlocking Global Potential
The expansion to foreign markets holds tantalizing prospects for small businesses armed with the right strategies and support. With programs like the Export Leaders Program, greater:SATX provides valuable resources and guidance to businesses ready to dive into the export scene. The program’s nine-month structure equips participants with not only knowledge but also connections that are crucial in international trade.
Success Stories In the Making
Mike Holt, the CEO of Sterling Pressure Systems, is one such success story. After graduating from the program a decade ago, he faced early challenges, but fast forward to today and exports now account for approximately one-third of his business. “This program has proved invaluable to us,” Holt shared. “It takes the mystery out of the process of exporting to Mexico. It was scary, but they held my hand. Now, our business south of the border is really taking off.”
Recently, greater:SATX celebrated the graduation of another cohort of local entrepreneurs, showcasing a diverse array of businesses from technology to food and beverage sectors. Bret Piatt, CEO of CyberFortress, a data backup and disaster recovery service provider, praised the initiative, stating, “This is such a well-run program. Without their direction and advocacy, you could spend years thrashing around and accomplishing very little.” He recounted a whirlwind business development trip to Mexico City, where attendees were so engrossed in meetings that they grabbed tacos from a street vendor to keep moving.
Investing in Dreams
The best part? The program comes free of charge to participants, thanks in part to the generous support from organizations like JPMorganChase. “San Antonio thrives because of our small business ecosystem. That’s why JPMorgan Chase is a lead funder of this great program. It works,” noted Jeff Bailey, a market leader in San Antonio. Local bankers also provide crucial expertise that enhances the program’s effectiveness.
Making Connections
The process does come with hurdles, but with the right resources, the potential for success is immense. Romanita Matta-Barrera, chief business advancement officer for greater:SATX, shared insights about breaking down barriers. “Doing business in Mexico can be complex because laws, regulations and competitors are different,” she explained. To aid participants, the program collaborates with influential trade associations and chambers of commerce in key Mexican cities, such as Mexico City and Monterrey.
Tapping into New Markets
Not every participant is solely focused on exporting. Oscar Perez, the owner of Tio Pelon’s Salsita, aims to import products into the U.S. He highlighted the pragmatic nature of sourcing ingredients close to home, remarking that bringing produce and glass jars from Mexico makes more sense than shipping them back and forth. “My hope is that having a manufacturing presence in Mexico opens the door for my brand in that country,” Perez said.
Patience and Persistence Pays Off
Entrepreneurs like Robert Barnett, an attorney and investor with connections in Mexico through his firm, emphasize the importance of thorough preparation. “If you can do that, your success can be tremendous. But I advise people that you have to be patient, persuasive, and polite. Those three Ps are very important in Mexico,” Barnett advised.
A Roadmap to Success
As the latest graduates of the Export Leaders Program emerge, they now have a tailored roadmap to build upon. “Providing support through the Export Leaders Program is often the key for our local businesses to unlock their global potential,” Matta-Barrera concluded, underscoring the significance of this initiative in contributing to San Antonio’s growing economic landscape.
