Guests to discuss global trade potential in Southwestern Illinois

The RiverBend Growth Association is holding an afternoon gathering on how southwestern Illinois is impacting global markets.

The free event, “It’s Global. It’s Here. Right Now.,” is Wednesday, Nov. 12, from 1 to 5 p.m, at Lewis and Clark Community College’s Bethalto Education Center, 1136 E. Airline Drive, East Alton. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m.

Topics include benefits and uses of the Foreign Trade Zone by Robbie Williams of America’s Central Port; the recent expansion of the Port District, by Dennis Wilmsmeyer, executive director of the port; a perspective of immigrants on the workforce, by Betsy Cohen of the St. Louis Mosaic Project; and the services offered by the Illinois SBDC Trade Center and the Illinois Office of Trade and Investment.

Keynote speaker is Roy Norton, consul general for Canada based in Chicago, beginning at 4 p.m. The Canadian Consulate General, which he heads, promotes Canadian interests – trade, investment, the environment, culture and academic relations. His presentation, entitled “Canada and Illinois: Growing Together!” will include information on the unique bilateral relationship between Canada and the United States and the opportunities to support growth, eliminate barriers and compete globally.

There is no fee to attend but reservations are requested. Register at growthassociation.com or by email to receptionist@growthassociation.com.

Sponsors are Alton Center Business Park, Ameren Illinois, America’s Central Port, Raifort Commerce Park and St. Louis Regional Airport.