The transition to interacting with Ciba was good for me. Since 1992, the International Market Planning Program conducted by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership has sponsored this type of class project. Most M.B.A.-granting institutions in Virginia participate in the program and compete for the Governor's Award. The goal of the program is two-fold. The students get hands-on training and experience in a real international market research situation, and the companies and local economy also benefit.
Local companies ought to be out in the world marketing their products and services.
The students were aware of the possibility of the statewide competition, but it did not change their outlook on the project. Each year the Governor's Award for Excellence in International Market Planning is given to two research teams, one for the spring semester and one for the fall. This is the first time the award will be given at the Virginia Conference on World Trade. Antonick said the Virginia Economic Development Partnership is trying to ensure that the two events will continue to coincide in the future.