2017 International Buyer Program, International Buyer Program SELECT Applications Now Being Accepted

November 27, 2015


The 2017 International Buyer Program (IBP) and International Buyer Program SELECT www.export.gov/ibp application period now is open.

Interested shows have until Jan. 8, 2016, to apply. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Buyer Program is a joint government-industry effort designed to increase U.S. export sales by promoting international attendance at major U.S. industry exhibitions.

Exhibitors always are looking to connect with qualified buyers. If your show has exhibitors who are interested in exporting their goods and connecting with pre-screened buyers from outside the U.S., you might want to take a close look at these programs.

The IBP, with the help of Commerce Department trade specialists from around the nation, works to match U.S. companies exhibiting at your show with these vetted buyers, in hopes of increasing international sales for your U.S. exhibitors.

Just a few of the shows on the 2015 IBP list are Offshore Technology Conference, International Home + Housewares Show, World of Concrete and 2015 International CES.

For more information and to apply for the 2017 programs, visit the International Buyer Program website at www.export.gov/ibp or contact IBP2017@trade.gov.

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Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.    Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.    Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.   The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.    MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.     MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.