World Trade Center Arkansas, OWIT Partnering to Launch Arkansas Chapter

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The World Trade Center Arkansas and the Organization of Women in International Trade are proud to announce the formation of an Arkansas chapter, which will focus on promoting bilateral trade and education for women and students in the Natural State.

Established in 1989, OWIT is a global association for women working in international trade and business. There are over 2,000 members who are making an economic impact on million-dollar trade and business transactions annually. 

The Organization of Women in International Trade's focus is on adding value to its corporate, mid-sized and small businesses and individual global members. The organization also supports virtual membership for easier membership engagement. 

"By bringing together businesses and government agencies from around the globe, we aim to build a better world, one where the works of women would be represented more extensively," said Denise Thomas, director of Africa and Middle East trade at World Trade Center Arkansas.

"World Trade Center Arkansas actively promotes development, we advance trade education, and we provide life-changing opportunities for students in global commerce through our immersive and dynamic internship program. For all these reasons and more, we feel confident that the WTC Arkansas is a natural partner for OWIT."

By joining the Organization of Women in International Trade Arkansas, each member gains access to the organization's international network, as well as the resources and knowledge available at the World Trade Center Arkansas. Discounted member rates will also be available for OWIT chapter events and webinars.

Cameron Smith, co-founder and president of Cameron Smith and Associates, said Arkansas businesswomen should consider a membership to OWIT because it offers members "extraordinary access to trade experts and network opportunities."

"As the president of an international search firm, I am an advocate of empowering women in business and entrepreneurship. That is why I am a supporter of OWIT," Smith said. 

Other benefits include global networking, business development, mentoring, education and training, and a strategic alliance with the world's most thriving markets. 

The World Trade Center Arkansas will use its resources and network to supplement the Organization of Women in International Trade's mission by putting special focus on women in trade.

"The OWIT Arkansas chapter is a unique institution as a part of both the World Trade Center Arkansas and the University of Arkansas," Thomas said.

"We'll offer a great platform for more women to gain initial exposure and/or wider access to the field of international trade."

An official, in-person kickoff event is being planned for August.

The mission of the World Trade Center Arkansas is to grow trade and increase Arkansas exports by connecting Arkansas businesses to the world through international trade services. The center is part of the University of Arkansas and serves as the trade promotion arm for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. For more information and valuable updates, please follow the center on Facebook and Twitter or subscribe to the World Trade Center Arkansas newsletter.