Rhode Island trade officials and senior business leaders provided a personal perspective of the opportunities for Yorkshire companies to export to New England at an event last week (20 September) held in the Leeds office of transatlantic law firm Womble Bond Dickinson .

The Rhode Island commerce team provided an overview of the state’s burgeoning technology, innovation, advanced manufacturing, medical, digital and renewables sectors as well as highlighting the opportunities for UK firms of establishing a presence on the East Coast as a way into the lucrative US market.

Organised by ExportExchange, an initiative which brings together fledgling exporters with their more experienced peers, the seminar included a panel session hosted by Yorkshire business editor David Parkin. Michael Sigourney of AVTECH Software and Angelo Marin of VPI gave US insight while Simon Riley of Quality Bearings Online and Oliver Rickeard of Atomos Networks provided the Yorkshire perspective.

Stefan Pryor, Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce, said: “More and more, international companies are realising the benefits of doing business in Rhode Island – including our competitive tax structure, potent economic development tools, and high quality of life. Companies with UK roots, including Finlays and Virgin Pulse, have chosen to plant their flag in our state, and we look forward to exploring opportunities with other companies that are looking to expand in America.”

Paul Snape, programme director at ExportExchange, said: “We’re pleased to have the opportunity to welcome a delegation of exciting and innovative American businesses to the region and to hear their experiences in international trade and the huge potential offered by the US market.”