Foreign Trade Division

Transcription

1 Booth Number 15 Foreign Trade Division The U.S. Census Bureau is the Official U.S. Government source for U.S. export and import trade statistics. We provide a broad and comprehensive range of foreign trade statistics that are available on a monthly, annual and historical basis. This includes information on over 20,000 products, 240 trading partners, 50 states and territories, 45 districts, and 400 ports. Statistics include quantities, values, shipping weights, methods of transportation (air, vessel, or containerized vessel), and more. Starting October 1, 2008, the Census Bureau requires mandatory filing of export information through the Automated Export System (AES) or through the AESDirect for all shipments where a Shipper s Export Declaration was required. This is a direct result of the issuing of new Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR) on June 2, The new FTR completely alters the way you file export-shipping information. The Foreign Trade Division (FTD) of the Census Bureau will have trade specialists at the booth to help explain the new requirements under the FTR. The FTD has the responsibility of certifying and supporting all AES filers. The booth will also have AES client representatives available to answer questions regarding AES, AESDirect, or AESPcLink. U.S. Census Bureau-Foreign Trade Division, Regulations Automated Export Systems (AES) Branch U.S. Department of Commerce 4700 Silverhill Road Washington, D.C (800) Phone (301) Regulations; (301) AES Phone Dick Preuss [email protected] URL:

2 Booth Number: 01 Managing global risk at reduced cost through effective export control and trade compliance procedures Deloitte LLP s Global Trade Team has a worldwide network of over 300 international trade professionals in over 50 countries. The team works together seamlessly to provide strategic and cost-effective export, supply chain and trade compliance solutions across the globe. We work together with our clients to strategically approach efficient and effective management of day-to-day export control obligations. In particular, the team specializes in implementing comprehensive export management programs and systems to achieve optimal compliance and risk management while simultaneously maximizing commercial activity and reducing cost throughout the business. Our service offerings include: Development or enhancement of compliance programs and processes, including licence/supplier management and technology control programs Automation solution strategy, selection and implementation support Risk assessments including gap analyses Supply chain efficiency and security Development and delivery of training and internal audit programs Due diligence assessments Expert advice on export transactions, including outsourcing of export control function and helpdesk support Advice on sanctions/embargoes We have extensive knowledge and experience in developing tools and processes, as well as implementing automated solutions, across various industries. Our team consists of lawyers, ex-government officials, industry experts, and consultants, blending in-depth regulatory and technical knowledge with tried-and-tested policy and control procedures. For more information, please contact: US Practice Leader Michele McGuire, Principal Tel: [email protected] EU Practice Leader Stacey Lax, Partner Tel: +44 (0) [email protected]

3 Booth Number 13 Commonwealth Trading Partners, Inc. CTP provides trade compliance and non-proliferation services for private and public clients throughout the world. For domestic exporters we offer commodity classification, customized training programs, compliance audits, technical documents (TAAs, TCPs, etc), and Export Management Compliance Programs (EMCPs). Government projects focus on customized software tools and export control training for foreign officials and organizations, including legal foundations, control lists, licensing, industry-government outreach and border security. We also create and deploy training and software solutions for transit/ transshipment procedures, diplomatic (soft target) security, and anti-terrorism. Founded in 1994, CTP has expanded in response to the accelerating demand for export control and security-related expertise. Using our proven Instructional Systems Design (ISD) methodologies, we have created dozens of customized software and training tools and deployed them in over 500 workshops, exchanges, and conferences in sixty countries. Over time we have attracted a diverse pool of subject matter experts that enable us to respond effectively to large and complex challenges. We will work closely with your experts to determine the best approach for your company. CTP experts can provide on-call personnel to perform specific tasks, such as Product Classification, on an as-needed basis. Alternatively, we offer comprehensive services, such as Internal Audits or customized corporate training programs for multi-location compliance initiatives. Call Rick Phipps at (703) to get started. CTP Providing Global Trade & Security Solutions since 1994 For More Information CTP - Commonwealth Trading Partners, Inc. 300 North Lee Street, Third Floor Alexandria, VA (703) Phone Rick Phipps [email protected] URL:

4 BOOTH NUMBERS 11& 12 ecustoms Celebrating over 27 years of experience in the global trade industry, ecustoms relies on unparalleled industry knowledge to deliver comprehensive and efficient trade compliance solutions to all industry sectors. Our solutions span the entire spectrum of trade compliance, including restricted party screening, export license application and management (Departments of State and Commerce licenses), import documentation and ABI submission (ABI certified and ACH capable), NAFTA management, export documentation (AES certified), tariff classification and solutions for new initiatives like the ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) program for US importers. ecustoms also offers solutions for carriers and freight forwarders, including our e-manifest, QP/WP, release notification, and other freight messaging solutions. Whether you are a large multinational corporation or a smaller business that s just getting started, our solutions can be tailored to meet your precise needs. Put the power of our experience to work for you today! ecustoms Peace Bridge Plaza Buffalo, NY Phone Fax [email protected]

5 Booth Number 10 International Import-Export Institute The International Import-Export Institute at Dunlap-Stone University provides comprehensive, online education and training for international trade professionals. Within an accredited Bachelor s degree program and multiple certification programs, IIEI utilizes a proven classroom model open 24/7, perfect for busy professionals. IIEI offers courses to prepare students for certification exams ranging from the introductory Certified Exporter, the Certified U.S. Compliance Officer program which centers on EAR, ITAR, documentation and ethics, to the higher level Certified International Trade Manager. The International Import-Export Institute at Dunlap Stone University * * The International Import-Export Institute N 28 th Dr, Ste B 201 Phoenix AZ / Phone Fax [email protected]

6 Booth Number 22 The Treaty Compliance Division (TCD) Bureau of Industry and Security The Treaty Compliance Division (TCD) of the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is responsible for implementing the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which is the first multilateral treaty that directly impacts U.S. industry. The CWC has several export control related provisions, including certain prohibitions on exports and imports of Schedule 1, 2 and 3 chemicals, as well as advance transfer notifications, end-use certificates, and annual reports on exports and imports. BIS, along with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the Department of Energy, is responsible for implementing the Additional Protocol to the U.S.- IAEA Safeguards Agreement (AP). On December 16, 2006, the President signed the Additional Protocol Implementation Act to implement the AP. BIS published proposed regulations to implement the AP on July 25, 2008 and anticipates publishing the final rule in November 2008, after which industry must submit reports to BIS within 30 calendar days. The AP is a bilateral agreement that will strengthen the existing U.S.-IAEA Safeguards Agreement by expanding U.S. declaration requirements to cover the entire civil nuclear fuel cycle, from mining to the disposal of radioactive waste. Under this protocol, BIS will collect annual reports from civil industry locations involved in uranium mining; production, manufacturing and/or construction of civil nuclear fuel cycle-related equipment and materials; research and development activities not involving nuclear material (both private and publicly funded projects); and specific import transactions upon request. BIS has responsibility for collecting and compiling the AP declaration for the U.S. Government. Treaty Compliance Division, Bureau of Industry and Security 14 th & Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Room Washington, DC Phone Fax Tracey O Donnell, Director/ITT Go to website and use the webmaster URL:

7 Booth Number 08 OCR Services, Inc. Headquartered in the Metropolitan Washington DC area, OCR is the first choice for global trade information solutions. With national security requirements at a peak, Companies world wide choose OCR as a trusted resource widely recognized as an expert for international trade. OCR s EASE is an enterprise strength Web based solutions that facilitate international trade processes, reduce the risk inherent in cross-border transactions, and keep clients informed of the ever-changing regulatory environment. A pioneer in the field, OCR s mission has always been to create value by simplifying the complex nature of international commerce. For over two decades our clients have depended on us to remain on the leading edge of innovation by anticipating needs and developing world-class compliance software solutions. The products and services offered by OCR are as follows: Web-based Trade Compliance Management Portal (EASENet) Watch Lists Screening Solutions fully integrated with any ERP Electronic license applications to the US Department of Commerce ITAR Compliance (DTRADE)- US Department of State Licensing License Tracking and Management System Tech Data Management Compliance Request Portal Visitor Management Export License Screening (Determination) Export Documentation/ AES Import Management Online Import/Export Regulations Online Regulatory and Compliance Publications - International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) - Defense Trade Controls handbook (DTCH) - Commerce Export Compliance Handbook (CECH) - Export Administration Regulations (EAR) - US Customs Regulations (USCR) - Multilateral Export Controls List (MECL) The solutions are available in both, web-hosted environment, requiring minimal investment OR in an enterprise strength version that seamlessly integrates into any leading ERP system.

8 Booth Number: 07 Export Control Resources ExportWeb, Export Control Resources LLC s (ECR s) secure, Web-based export compliance system, is designed to help U.S. exporters comply with export regulations and licensing requirements enforced by U.S. Government Agencies. It has three powerful features: 1. Party Screening Screens against the Lists to Check, the lists identified by the U.S. Department of Commerce s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) as being relevant to controlled exports. 2. License Determination - Determines whether an export license is required to export a specific product to one or more countries. 3. ECCN Finder Simplifies identifying the Export Classification Control Number (ECCN) of export products. ExportWeb provides real-time compliance screening that enables U.S. exporters to maintain an audit trail and to generate reports that demonstrate proactive due diligence in their international business transactions. It is updated within hours of any changes to the Commerce Control List or the restricted parties in the Lists to Check.

9 BOOTH NUMBERS 06 Black Duck Software Black Duck Software is the leading global provider of products and services for accelerating software development through the managed use of open source and third-party code. Black Duck enables companies to shorten time-to-market and reduce development and maintenance costs while mitigating the risks and challenges associated with open source reuse, including hidden license obligations, security vulnerabilities, unsupported open source and version proliferation. The company is headquartered near Boston and has offices in San Francisco, Amsterdam and Hong Kong, as well as distribution partners throughout the world. For more information, visit

10 Booth Number 05 IntegrationPoint Integration Point, Inc. Global Trade Management assists international companies by providing import and export visibility globally, delivering up-to-date global regulatory information and facilitating connectivity to supply chain partners and government agencies around the globe. Integration Point Global Trade Management is a comprehensive suite of fully integrated, web-based solutions that provide consistent and secure access to trade compliance data around the world. Companies use Integration Point Global Trade Management for: import/export management, product classification, restricted party screening, supply chain security, free trade agreement qualifications, entry validation, duty deferral program management, and more. A Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) technology, Integration Point Global Trade Management is architected to proactively provide the necessary compliance information ahead of time so that goods keep moving ahead efficiently. With international trade agreements and taxes changing constantly, companies must have up-to-date views of their supply chain and customs requirements. Rather than simply rely on historical information, Integration Point gives organizations the ability to analyze global transaction information in real-time, and to validate that information against up-to-date global regulatory data (Harmonized Schedules, denied party lists, multiple free trade agreement rules, etc.) from over 140 countries. By tightly integrating with a customers existing ERP and/or logistics platform (SAP, Oracle, JD Edwards, MAPICS, Infor, Manhattan Associates, EXE, MFG/PRO, etc.), Integration Point Global Trade Management ensures compliance at every step in the manufacturing or distribution processes. For more information about Integration Point visit or call Integration Point P.O. Box Charlotte, NC Phone Fax [email protected] Website:

11 Booth Number 03 Office of Exporter Services Bureau of Industry and Security Join us at BIS s Office of Exporter Services (OExS) Exhibit booth and learn more about the services we offer to the exporting community. If you re new to Update, be sure to stop by to have your classification and regulatory questions answered in person by BIS s team of experts. If you are a regular at Update, visit with us and participate in our Test your EAR IQ quiz which may challenge your knowledge of the latest changes to the EAR. OExS provides one-on-one counseling and responds to inquiries from the export community regarding the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), export control policy, and licensing requirements and procedures. We plan and conduct over 50 seminars, webinars, and other outreach efforts, including the annual Update Conference and Export Control Forum, to help exporters understand and comply with the EAR. OExS is the first line of contact for exporters and other trade professionals seeking information and assistance regarding export controls under the EAR. It s Regulatory Policy Division develops drafts and publishes the EAR. OExS helps exporters to comply with the EAR by teaching companies how to implement an Export Management and Compliance Program, conducting reviews of existing systems and providing advice on improving them. OExS issues company identification numbers (CIN) and Personal Identification numbers (PIN) for the SNAP-R on-line application system. Bureau of Industry and Security, Office of Exporter Services U.S. Department of Commerce 14 th & Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Room 1099D Washington, DC Phone: Counseling: HQ, Washington, DC: (202) , WRO, Newport Beach, CA: (949) or Santa Clara, CA: (408) ; Seminars: (202) Fax: (202) Bernie Kritzer, Director [email protected] URL:

12 Booth Number 14 TradeBeam TradeBeam enables companies to optimize their global supply chain through better collaboration with suppliers, partners and regulatory authorities, improving visibility and significantly reducing costs and risks associated with international trade. By streamlining and automating global trade processes with minimal impact on existing systems and operations, TradeBeam's SaaS-based software solutions help businesses compete more effectively while freeing significant working capital from the supply chain. Interested in our monthly mailing with valuable whitepapers and newsletters? Visit call , or and request to be put on the mailing list. TradeBeam, Inc. Two Waters Park Drive Suite# 100 San Mateo, CA ) or Phone (650) Fax Wendy Thompson, Director of Marketing URL:

13 Booth Number: 16 Export Compliance Training Institute The Export Compliance Training Institute (ECTI) holds seminars around the world that are designed to impart a practical approach to understanding and complying with United States government regulations on export and trade controls. Instructors John Black, Maarten Sengers and Scott Gearity, as well as various special topic guest instructors, have extensive experience with both government regulatory agencies and the private sector. They are uniquely qualified to provide cost-effective and practical answers to their clients compliance challenges. ECTI offers seminars within the United States on US Export Controls & Defense Trade Controls as well as seminars focused on how US export controls impact specific industries such as Aerospace and Information Technology Companies. In 2010 we are planning domestic seminars in San Diego, Houston, Washington DC, Denver, Phoenix, Chicago & Miami. Internationally we offer seminars focused on how US Export Controls impact non-us transactions. These courses are beneficial for non-us companies who deal with US companies or who purchase US-origin products, components or technologies. This includes subsidiaries, affiliates and parents of US companies. Upcoming 2010 international seminars will include Singapore, Dubai, Montréal, London, and Amsterdam. Starting in mid-fall 2009, ECTI will begin to offer our e-seminar line of training. This will provide the same content and instruction that is available at our live seminars but without the cost and time of travel. Training manuals are also available for purchase for those who cannot attend the seminars. Details about ECTI and upcoming seminars are available at our website at

14 Booth Number 23 National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) Headquartered in Washington, DC, the NCBFAA represents nearly 860 member companies with over 100,000 collective employees in international trade - the nation's leading freight forwarders, customs brokers, ocean transportation intermediaries (OTIs), NVOCCs and air cargo agents, who in turn serve more than 250,000 importers and exporters. Established in 1897 in New York, NCBFAA is the effective national voice of the industry. Through its various committees, counsel and representatives, the Association maintains a close watch over legislative and regulatory issues that affect its members. It keeps members informed of these and other related issues through its weekly Monday Morning ebriefing and various meetings as well as conferences throughout the year. Through the NCBFAA Educational Institute (NEI), the association offers the industry certification programs for both import, through the Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) designation, as well as the export oriented Certified Export Specialist (CES) designation. To ensure continued education of the designee holders, the certifications require continuing education credits be obtained throughout the year. These educational requirements are supported by a listing of qualifying events available on the website, as well as webinars and seminars offered directly by the NEI. The Third Thursday webinar series offers import oriented material for trade professionals, while the First Thursday webinar series offers transport and export training for those engaged in this field. National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America, Inc th Street, NW, Suite 901 Washington, DC (202) Phone (202) Fax Barbara Reilly, Executive Vice President Cynthia D (Jerome) Allen, Educational Institute Director [email protected] URL:

15 Booth Number 27 Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is the largest investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), responsible for the enforcement of border, economic, infrastructure and transportation security laws. ICE seeks to prevent terrorist and criminal activity by targeting the people, money, and materials that support terrorist and criminal organization. Project Shield America is an industry outreach initiative developed and utilized by the Counter-Proliferation Investigations Unit (CPIU) of ICE. Project Shield America is an integral part of the ICE strategy of preventing illegal exporters, targeted foreign countries, terrorist groups, and international criminal organizations from trafficking in Weapons of Mass Destruction and their components; obtaining and illegally exporting licensable commodities, technologies, conventional munitions, and firearms; and engaging in financial transactions which support these activities or which violate U.S. sanctions or embargoes. Project Shield America is intent on obtaining the assistance and cooperation of companies involved in manufacture, sale, and export of U.S. origin strategic technology and munitions items. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Shield America th Street, SW Washington, D.C Albert C. Redd Jr., National Program Manager (202) Phone

16 Booth Number 26 MK Data Services MK Data Services is a leading provider of denied parties screening information. Updated daily, provides a consolidated denied parties list, which includes the following features: Logging reports that keep track of all searches performed Automatic Notification Service Custom Downloadable Data Files Customer to Denied Party Comparison Service (Batch Screening) MK Data Services also offers a wealth of export regulatory information including a Federal Register Database which allows clients to view all notices by agency, date, or regulatory order. Product Classifier/License Determination Service A fundamental step in ensuring your company is in compliance with U.S. export controls is the proper classification of your products. MK Data has developed a tool that will assist you in determining the proper ECCN and the license requirements for your product. Global Trade Content MK Data Services offers a variety of global trade content including the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for more than 100 countries, as well as the rules and notes for the NAFTA Rules of Origin (ROO). MK Data Services 5501 Twin Knolls Road, Suite 107 Columbia, MD (410) 992-DATA Phone (410) Fax Ken Harris, Managing Partner [email protected] URL:

17 Booth Number 21 Management Dynamics, Inc. Management Dynamics is the leading provider of Global Trade Management (GTM) solutions that combine a collaborative network, proven software, and specialized content to automate world-class import and export operations for over 122 countries. Our solutions enable customers to optimize supply chain execution decisions by synchronizing the flow of information among trading partners, managing trade regulatory compliance, minimizing border delays, streamlining logistics processes and reducing transportation costs throughout the entire supply chain. Our GTM solutions enable Fortune 1000 importers, exporters, and logistics service providers to comply with regulatory controls, screen against restricted parties, make sound sourcing and distribution decisions based on total landed cost, and ensure proper product classification, Customs documentation and license determination. Management Dynamics GTM solutions are powered by our Global Trade Content, the industry s most comprehensive and up-to-date database of content and international business rules for over 99 percent of the world market including tariff and contract rates, preferential duties and taxes for calculating total landed cost, import and export controls, over 50 restricted parties lists and all trade documents required for cross-border commerce. Established in 1990, Management Dynamics solutions are currently deployed to over 13,000 users in 70 countries, at some of the world s leading companies, including Apple, Boeing, Cisco Systems, Dell, DHL, FedEx, Honeywell, Panasonic, Pfizer, UPS and VF Corporation. For more information, please visit or contact us at (201) or [email protected]. Management Dynamics, Inc. One Meadowlands Plaza East Rutherford, NJ Phone Fax [email protected] URL:

18 Booth Number 20 U.S. Commercial Service With its network of more than 1,700 trade specialists located in 108 domestic offices and 150 posts in 80 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. The Commercial Service offers world-class research to help companies target the best markets; trade events that promote their products and services to targeted, pre-screened buyers; matchmaking services that enable companies to meet the best buyers, distributors, and agents; and personalized, expert consulting and advocacy services to help companies through every step of the export process. Much of the trade-related information and tools the Commercial Services offers are also accessible through the internet at To obtain export information or to find the U.S. Commercial Service specialist nearest you, visit or call 800-USA-TRADE. U.S. Commercial Service 1401 Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, DC USA-TRADE Phone (202) Fax

19 Booth Number 18 Tyler Search Consultants Tyler is the leading Recruiting firm dedicated to the Trade Compliance community. Tyler thoroughly understands the unique and complex skill sets and experience that define a Trade Compliance Professional. Our Recruiters are former Trade Compliance and Logistics professionals themselves, including former U.S. Customs employees and Licensed Customs House Brokers. Whether the need is for a Director or Manager to initiate the proper Trade Compliance policies and procedures from scratch or someone to takeover and improve an existing compliance program or a specialist to help strengthen your compliance team Tyler can identify the right fit anywhere in the country. Tyler Search Consultants 400A Lake Street Ramsey NJ Phone Fax Bill Conroy, Executive Director [email protected] URL:

20 Booth Number 17 Kewill Kewill understands that compliance is at the heart of a successful international trade program and maintains a sharp focus on the evolving global trade compliance regulatory initiatives. Collaborating closely with international businesses, Kewill solutions are continually enhanced to provide systems that handle every aspect of compliance to increase security and facilitate trade. With over 35 years experience in global trade management and logistics, Kewill has a suite of software solutions that significantly simplify the management of the most complex global supply chains for enterprises and logistics service providers. For more information visit < or call Kewill's Global Trade Compliance solutions perform the following: *Export Compliance solutions perform mandated government compliance screening for restricted parties (including end use and end users), embargoed countries and export license determination. *Export Documentation solutions create compliant trade documentation using standard document sets continually updated to meet the changing international documentation requirements. *Import Compliance solutions automate interactions with Customs and Border Protection programs

21 Simplified Network Application Processing Redesign (SNAP-R) Franklin Square Independence Level BIS Online Services Training Room Come in and. Learn about online services and information provided through the BIS Web Site Access past BIS Webinars on SNAP-R, Reexport Controls, and Intermediate Deemed Exports. Get answers to SNAP-R questions Address any issues and concerns related to SNAP-R Try the New STELA WEB interface New on SNAP-R STELA on the Web The System to Track Export License Applications (STELA) is available on the SNAP-R Web site. This easy to use Web-based User Interface provides the same license application status that is currently available via STELA by phone access. Coming soon to SNAP-R SNAP-R Online Registration The online registration system will automate the current manual company/user registration process (CIN/PIN request for SNAP-R access) and provide user self management capability (add/remove users and manage user rights within their company). BIS is committed to improving the licensing application process. OCIO, Bureau of Industry and Security U.S. Department of Commerce 14 th St & Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, DC Phone Fax Kim Sins, ECASS Redesign Project Manager URL:

22 Booth Number 23 MBDA 40 th Anniversary Historical Highlights Forty years ago in 1969, President Richard Nixon signed Executive Order creating the Office of Minority Business Enterprise (OMBE) and the Advisory Council for Minority Business Enterprise. In 1971, President Nixon signed Executive Order to expand the scope of MBDA and its minority business programs by authorizing grants to public and private organization to provide technical and management assistance to minority businesses. In 1979 the OMBE became the Minority Business Development Agency. In 2009, Secretary Gary Locke appointed David Hinson to be the new National Director of the Minority Business Development Agency. Director Hinson s new strategic focus for MBDA includes creating a new generation of $100 million revenue producing minority businesses and fostering the growth of minority businesses clean energy, green technology, healthcare and information technology Why MBDA is still important 40 years later The U.S. needs strong minority businesses to achieve maximum economic growth. The nation is failing to reap the benefits of economic parity the creation of 16 million jobs, generating $2.5 trillion in gross receipts and an unrealized tax base of more than $100 billion per year. Minority firms have the potential to contribute significantly to the balance of trade. Minority businesses are twice as likely to generate sales through exports compared to non-minority firms. MBDA is a catalyst to grow minority businesses in size, scale and capacity. MBDA s Plan to Achieve Economic Parity MBDA is focused on creating a new generation of $100 million dollar minority businesses creating the foundation that helps to close the gap in annual revenues between minority-owned firms and non-minority owned firms. MBDA will focus on increasing annual revenues for minority businesses from an average of less than $200,000 to more than $1 million. Through our nationwide network of minority business centers, MBDA will continue to provide financing acquisition consulting, as well as merger and acquisitions consulting. MBDA and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act The inclusion of minority business enterprises in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) contracting and grant opportunities is vitally important to achieving the Administration s broad economic policies. That s why the Vice President announced the establishment of a leadership role for Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke and MBDA for the coordination of minority business participation in all ARRA opportunities. MBDA is acting as a pipeline on minority businesses by meeting with other federal government agencies which received ARRA funds for projects throughout the country and matching them with qualified minority businesses. For more information contact: Stephen Boykin Office of Legislative, Education and Intergovernmental Affairs Minority Business Development Agency, U.S. Department of Commerce (Cell) (Office) [email protected]