A new Open to Export Action Plan competition has been launched this week aimed at encouraging companies to plan for post-Brexit by using the online planning tool to create a strategy for growth that takes into account the different potential outcomes of the UK’s exit from the EU.

By entering the competition, businesses could stand to win at least £3000 in cash towards their export plans, plus two free training courses with the Institute of Export & International Trade.

Sponsored by Bibby Financial Services and backed by the Institute, the competition is now open to companies of all sizes having previously been only open to companies with fewer than 50 employees.

Finalists will be invited to pitch their plans to a panel of specialist judges at a fabulous showcase final event at the Swiss Embassy in early November. All finalists will also be rewarded with a year’s free business membership with the Institute.

We certainly encourage our followers and those who are already members with us to use the Export Action Plan when planning the years ahead. It’s an intuitive and easy-to-use tool for collecting thoughts and organising an export strategy, asking you to complete tasks and set actions along 5 steps to export success.

The tool is a great exercise in establishing what you need to know and do to grow your international business. Once you have completed the steps, you will generate an action plan - a brilliant showpiece to take to your bank, business advisor or international trade advisor.

The competition is also a great opportunity to gain recognition for your business. Finalists are invited to pitch to our panel of expert judges at what will certainly be a fabulous showcase final event at the Swiss Embassy in November. This will also be a great chance to meet multiple specialists in international trade and gain access to their expertise.

Previous finals have generated plenty of buzz and excitement, with recent highlights including finalists being congratulated by MPs at a glittering reception at the Foreign Office.

So don’t delay, start your plan today!