UPS Offers X-PORT Challenge Prizes

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Small and medium-sized businesses with global aspirations have the opportunity to win $10,000 in export shipping with UPS. The UPS X-PORT Challenge aims to help local businesses export to international markets.

“The UPS X-PORT Challenge is an example of our commitment to innovation, global trade and entrepreneurism,” says Bill Seward, UPS U.S. International President, “Less than one percent of America’s 30 million companies export – a percentage that is significantly lower than all developed countries. And of U.S. companies that do export, 58 percent export to only one country. This competition presents an opportunity for growth-oriented businesses to expand internationally.”

Participants in the UPS X-PORT Challenge can begin the application process online. A local UPS representative will then provide the second part of the application, which gives businesses the opportunity to share their ideas for international expansion. That assessment will define the business’ specialty, degree of uniqueness, global appeal and market challenges. Applications must be received by Oct. 10, 2016.

The top 10 applicants will be invited to attend the “Pitch-Off” event on Nov. 10, 2016, in Louisville. Contestants will pitch their business to a panel of judges from the local international business community. The judges will then pick the top three finalists as prize-winners. The second and third place winners will receive $2,500 and $1,000, respectively, in export shipping.