Pennsylvania Textiles Manufacturer AKAS Textiles and Laminations Named an EXIM Exporter of the Year
WASHINGTON – AKAS Textiles and Laminations (AKAS Tex)(link is external), a woman- and minority-owned small business engaged in textiles design and manufacturing in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, has been named an Exporter of the Year by the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM). The company, which has used EXIM’s export credit insurance and working capital guarantee to support its international sales since 2013, was awarded today at EXIM’s 2021 Annual Conference being held virtually September 21-23.
“I am pleased to recognize AKAS Tex for its outstanding contributions to fulfilling EXIM ’s mission of supporting American jobs by facilitating U.S. exports,” said EXIM Acting Senior Vice President of Small Business and Vice President of Women- and Minority-Owned Business Outreach Tamara Maxwell. “Approximately 90 percent of EXIM’s authorizations directly support small businesses such as the exporters being awarded at the annual conference. We are dedicated to facilitating the exporting success of U.S. small businesses as they compete in the global marketplace and support American jobs at home.”
AKAS Tex was started in 2007 by Indian immigrants Sidharth and Archana Sharma, who moved to the United States to create a better life for their children, Karishma and Ashrey. AKAS—named for the four family members—is known for its eco-friendly, made-in-America fabrics used in top brands for absorbency, food safety, organics, athletic performance, protection, and more. The company partners exclusively with American textile mills for production, and its products are used in gear for U.S. armed forces and astronauts, among other applications. Last year, the company began making masks for domestic and international customers.
In 2013, AKAS Tex began using EXIM small-business financing products that helped the company to increase revenue by offering credit terms to its international customers and using working capital to fulfill export sales orders. As a result, customers ordered larger quantities of its fabrics due to access to credit terms of up to three months that enabled them to make and sell textile products and then pay AKAS Tex. The company’s export revenues increased from 5 percent to 15 percent, and the number of its customers increased to 180 in 60 countries and regions, including the United Kingdom, Europe, South Africa, Australia, and South America.
“It is only due to EXIM’s support that we were able to substantially grow our exports. EXIM opened up the world for us to access new markets and opportunities. Their service is excellent, and they are invaluable for small businesses like ours. With EXIM backing us, I am confident in venturing into new markets. Thank you, EXIM!” said AKAS Tex CEO and Chief Storyteller Archana Sharma.
Since 2014, EXIM has supported a total of 213 exporters such as AKAS Tex across Pennsylvania, 143 of whom are small businesses, with a total export value of $6 billion.
U.S. companies, particularly small businesses, can utilize EXIM’s financing tools and resources to increase their international sales, showcase their “Made in the USA” products, and create and sustain American jobs. By partnering with EXIM, exporters can mitigate the risk of nonpayment on international sales, offer credit terms to foreign buyers, and access working capital loan guarantees. In addition, EXIM has implemented several COVID-19 (coronavirus) relief measures for U.S. exporters and financial institutions to enhance the agency’s existing programs.
Click here to view the video about AKAS.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Join the Conference of Great St. Lawerence Governors & Premiers' Trade Mission to Israel
Are you looking to grow your export sales? Consider joining GSGP's upcoming trade mission to Tel Aviv, Israel May 15-19, 2022. All participants will receive a pre-screened, customized, b2b meeting schedule with potential distributors, buyers and joint venture partners. Participants will also benefit from market sector briefings, networking events and logistical support. Various State export assistance grants are available that may offset from 50-75% of trade mission costs. Let the GSGP Israel Trade Office save you valuable time and resources, and maximize your results!
Why Israel?
- The Israeli market is stable and highly receptive to Canadian and U.S. products and services. Both countries have enjoyed access to the Israeli market through free trade agreements established over 20 years ago.
- Israel has a thriving innovation ecosystem and is a global leader in number of startups outside of Silicon Valley. Best prospect sectors include agriculture, design and construction, energy, environmental technologies, information technology, and safety and security. Science and technology are significant drivers of the Israeli economy.
- In 2020 U.S. goods exports to Israel were $10.2 billion. Exports of services reached $6 billion in 2019. Two-way merchandise trade between Canada and Israel was valued at more than $1.6 billion in 2020.
- Top U.S. and Canadian exports to Israel include precious or semi-precious stones, vehicles and related parts, aircraft and related parts, electrical and industrial machinery, and medical devices.
Costs
Participation fee: In person: U.S. $1,500 per company and $500 each for additional participant.
Market research & Customized Appointment Setting fees:
Israel: U.S. $3,200*
*Fee is complimentary for companies based in IL, OH, & PA.
Grant funding is available in many States to offset mission costs by 50-75%.
For more information, click here.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mid-Atlantic Regional Summit with Senator Chris Coons
The U.S. Global Leadership Council is hosting a virtual town hall with Senator Chris Coons Senator Chris Coons and special guests on the positive impact of global affairs programs in Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic region.
This event will take place on November 15, 2021 from 12 to 1:30 p.m.
To register, click here.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Philadelphia International Airport is proud to announce its new initiative to attract and retain qualified volunteers, across multiple demographics, who will serve as catalysts to provide relevant information and foster meaningful interaction with travelers as they’re welcomed to our region.
The PHL Volunteer Navigator program is a community-centered evolution and expansion of the Philadelphia International Airport’s mission and commitment to warmly, proactively, approachable, and reliably, enhance the guest experience through every single touch point.
PHL is looking for volunteers who love Philly, want to meet new people, be part of a dedicated airport team, and experience the airport behind-the-scenes. Please click on the link for detailed information about the program--its perks and requirements--along with the application of interest.
https://www.phl.org/at-phl/services-and-amenities/volunteers
"The best part of being a volunteer at the airport for me is meeting and helping people from all over the world," Ken, current airport volunteer
For more information, click here.