Explore and enter new overseas markets with the help of the Export Accelerator project including specialist support and grants.

This project is available to businesses in Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. It runs until 31 March 2026.

New to exporting or looking to expand into new overseas markets?

The Export Accelerator project can support you in navigating the complexities of international trade. Whether you’re interested in undertaking some initial research or you have ambitions to launch a product or service to a new overseas market, we’re here to help.

Any business can be supported, especially if your export activities are expected to create new jobs, improve productivity, or that show engagement in new markets (for example, by launching a new product or service in a new region or country, by undertaking research, or by attending a conference, workshop or training course to launch a new product).

Manufacturing & Engineering, Green Energy and Technology, and Creative and Digital industries will be a particular focus for the project.

What support is on offer from the Export Accelerator?

Advice from expert International Trade Advisers. Tap into 1-to-1 support from qualified International Trade Advisers to:

• Assess your export readiness with a tailored SWOT analysis and audit
• Build a market entry plan
• Navigate customs, FTAs, and compliance requirements
• Ensure correct commodity coding and documentation

Export Training  

Apply for up to £2,000 of free training to gain practical skills and knowledge through specialist-led training on topics including:

• International Trade Operations and Procedures (4-day)
• Rules of Origin
• Incoterms® 2020
• Customs Procedures
• Commodity Coding
• Export Documentation
• Letters of Credit
• Shipping Lithium Batteries
• Dangerous Goods by Road/Sea

Access to Finance

Apply for grant funding to support export growth, job creation and market entry.

Grants can cover the costs such as training, consultancy, salaries and equipment, as follows:

• Up to £2,000 funded at a 100% intervention rate (i.e. fully subsidised)

• £2,001 and £8,000 funded at an 80% intervention rate

Your expert International Trade Adviser will also signpost you to further regional and national support where available such as such as the High Growth Accelerator, Help to Grow: Management, Innovate UK Business Growth, Create Growth and Made Smarter East Midlands

East Midlands International Trade Network

This new peer network offers:

• Regular forum-style meetings every eight weeks
• A platform to share challenges, ideas, and opportunities
• Support from fellow exporters and industry experts

Accelerating your Global Growth

Tapping into the support on offer couldn’t be easier. 

If your business is based in Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham or Nottinghamshire, simply complete the form below to register your interest, and a Business Adviser will be in touch to learn more about your business and to explore what support is most appropriate for you. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by East Midlands Chamber.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) proactively supports delivery of the UK-government’s five national missions: pushing power out to communities everywhere, with a specific focus to help kickstart economic growth and promoting opportunities in all parts of the UK.

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