Cochise College, Douglas campus, is the site of the first Annual Mexico-US Networking Conference aimed at the development of trade along the USA-Mexico border. The event includes a full day of latest information from the likes of the Arizona Department of Commerce, Small Business Administration, and the South East Arizona Government Organization, amongst others, plus, participation of international trade specialists, foreign dignitaries, and experts on the Douglas Agua Prieta Economic Corridor.

To date, the following key note speakers are confirmed, Jos�© Mario Juarez Lopez de Nava, Trade Advisor for the M�©xico Consulate in Los Angeles, addressing key trade points. Mathew Baker, International Trade Specialist, with the US Department of Commerce, will be explaining new trade initiatives. Victor Gonzalez, Douglas Economic Development Corp, Carlos Valenzuela, CVR, LLC, developer of Douglas Tourism Plan, and Randy Heiss, Executive Director for the South Eastern Arizona Governments Organization.

Mark Schmitt, Director of the Small Business Development Center for the College, sponsor of the international event, encourages participation by businesses, government officials and educators from both sides of the border, “We want to better identify trade opportunities and entrepreneurs desiring to increase their radius of action internationally.” A series of follow up meetings and regional events are planned to further develop the initiative year round.

For those wishing to showcase their products or services, a limited amount of display booths are still available on a first come, first served basis. Networking coffee sessions are planned throughout the day to facilitate the identification of potential business opportunities amongst the participants. The conference will be simultaneously translated into Spanish or English.

This event will be held at Cochise College Student Union Building in Douglas, AZ; April 8th from 8:00am to 3:30 pm. Registration is $25 per person. Morning coffee and lunch is provided. To register or inquire about a booth, contact Cochise College Center for Lifelong Learning at 520-515-5492. Mark Schmitt (schmittm@cochise.edu) Pre-registration closes on April 1st.