These programs work best when small business gets to take advantage of these networks. Many states and major metropolitan areas, for instance, gather extensive facts about market conditions overseas for potential small-business exporters. Public libraries are devoting more space and resources to issues that concern small business. And then there are technology centers, which link industry with academia and government to accelerate the diffusion of data on the latest research and development. The city's economic development department subscribes to seven commercial computer database services.
Government agencies can be a particularly useful place to start for prospective entrepreneurs.
State governments are also eager to introduce small business to the nuts and bolts of exporting. Susan Baker, founder and owner of Ohio River Bear Co. in Middleport, Ohio, turned to the trade agency when she decided it was time to investigate export-market opportunities. Baker attended seminars on selling abroad, met with Ohio trade representatives from various overseas offices, and attended several foreign-trade shows held in Ohio. A number of programs go far beyond information and networking. Entrepreneurs keep costs down by sharing services and equipment, such as telephones.