The following expenses are covered in the Trade Mission package:

• Economy-class round-trip airfare
• Accommodations for the duration of the mission
• Most meals (specific details will be provided)
• Ground transportation for scheduled events and business meetings

The following expenses are not covered and must be arranged separately by participants:

• Visa fees and application costs
• Some meals (details will be provided)
• Private transportation outside of scheduled activities
• Upgraded airfare, travel, and accommodations

No, MAC does not provide direct financial assistance for participation in the Trade Mission.

No, MAC does not provide grants. However, we encourage participants to explore financial support opportunities, such as:

• Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) STEP Grants Program – This program may offer reimbursement for businesses participating in international trade missions.
• Private business grants – Some organizations offer funding to businesses seeking to expand their international trade opportunities.

While the MAC Trade Mission itself is not directly funded by MAP, the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) supports four State Regional Trade Groups (SRTGs), which assist U.S. companies in expanding export markets for value-added food and agricultural products. These non-profit organizations work closely with state Departments of Agriculture and provide services such as:

• Exporter training and education
• Market analysis and opportunity assessments
• Trade shows and buying missions
• Support for international marketing and product promotion

All promotional activities conducted by SRTGs are coordinated with FAS Washington and overseas offices and are primarily funded through the Market Access Program (MAP). We encourage businesses in the food and agriculture sector to explore MAP-related funding options.

Yes! Anyone is welcome to apply. The Trade Mission is designed to create opportunities for businesses across multiple industries. However, we aim to ensure that participants find the mission relevant and valuable.

Appropriate and relevant participants include:

• Businesses that align with the products and services featured in the mission.
• Established and successful companies seeking international growth.
• Emerging businesses with strong potential for international partnerships.

All applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure that participation aligns with the mission’s objectives.

Participants in the MAC Trade Mission will have the opportunity to:

• Attend high-level business networking events with local and international stakeholders.
• Engage in business-to-business (B2B) meetings with potential partners, distributors, and investors.
• Visit key industry sites and commercial hubs to explore trade and investment opportunities.
• Participate in government and business briefings to gain insight into West African markets.
• Experience cultural immersion activities to understand local business etiquette and economic landscapes.

The mission is designed to connect participants with valuable trade and investment opportunities while providing a structured and immersive international business experience.

No, participation in the Trade Mission does not guarantee a business deal or partnership. The mission is designed to provide participants with access to key decision-makers, potential partners, investors, and market insights, but securing deals will depend on individual efforts, business strategies, and negotiations.

Participants are encouraged to be proactive, follow up on leads, and leverage the networking opportunities provided during the mission to maximize their chances of success.

The MAC Trade Mission to West Africa offers numerous benefits, including:

• Market Expansion – Identify new business opportunities and gain direct access to West African markets.
• Networking & Partnerships – Connect with government officials, business leaders, investors, and potential distributors.
• Industry Insights – Learn about trade regulations, business culture, and market trends in West Africa.
• Brand Visibility – Showcase your company and products to international markets.
• Government & Business Briefings – Receive valuable guidance from experts on navigating the West African business landscape.
• Hands-on Experience – Engage in site visits, business matchmaking, and sector-specific events tailored to enhance your industry knowledge.

This Trade Mission is an invaluable opportunity for businesses looking to establish or expand their presence in West Africa.