Don Alper, the first of two keynote speakers, will provide attendees with an update on the recent Canada/USA border “action plan”, which addresses “perimeter security” and is intended to remove many major and minor barriers to trade and tourism. Alper is a professor and director at the Center for Canadian-American Studies and Border Policy Research Institute at Western Washington University in Bellingham, Washington. Cheryl Schell will introduce Globe 2012, the 12th biennial conference and trade fair on business and the environment to be held in Vancouver, BC, March 14-16, 2012. She will highlight opportunities for individuals and organizations on both sides of the border to develop business, investment and joint-venture opportunities. Schell is the President of C/Schell Marketing Services, Langley, BC. Formerly, she was the Sr. Commercial Specialist at the U.S. Consulate in Vancouver, BC. The Cross-Border Update will be of interest to all persons involved with Canada/USA trade, tourism, investment, government, education and economic development. Sponsors of the event include: Port of Bellingham, Pacific Corridor Enterprise Council (PACE), Ferndale Chamber of Commerce, South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce, Northwest Business Monthly Online, and International Market Access, Inc.

Presented by the sponsoring organization in conjunction with International Market Access, Inc. and Pacific Customs Brokers Inc. This introductory two-hour seminar is aimed at entrepreneurs who are starting a new international business or who are currently operating in international market places. You will learn practical, cost effective methods and strategies. Topics include: (1) Overview of the U.S. Market, (2) USA Marketing and Distribution (Strategies, Lessons & Pitfalls), (3) U.S. Customs Compliance Overview, and (4) Roundtable: Questions, Answers, and Discussion. You need to know these basics before you commit to the design, manufacture or purchase of your product or service.

This session will provide insights, ideas, success stories and strategies to help you sell and succeed in the international marketplace. From understanding effective market entry strategies, to figuring out how business conditions and practices differ from country-to-country, to learning out the real value of the Internet for your international presence; this seminar will enlighten, entertain and motivate you to explore the opportunities of expanding internationally.

GLOBE 2012 will be the 12th event in one of the world's largest and longest-running event series dedicated to business and the environment. Every two years, the world gathers in Vancouver for three days of thought-leading sessions presented by world-renowned sustainability experts. Business leaders, corporate executives, NGOs, and government policymakers from around the world will meet to explore corporate sustainability and competitiveness, clean energy, climate change, sustainability in finance, and greener cities. A number of special sessions will also be offered addressing water, global emissions management, and greening the retail sector.

The Trader of the Year and the Emerging Trader of the Year Awards recognize local companies that have contributed to the expansion of Washington State’s international trade through demonstrated success, industry leadership, innovation, and service to the community. In appreciation of the fact that business excellence comes in a variety of forms, the Emerging Trader of the Year Award specifically recognizes small to mid-size Washington State businesses for their contributions to the economy of Washington State.

The Ferndale Chamber of Commerce welcomes professionals from northern Washington and Lower British Columbia. This will be the first time in recent history that the famed "Disney Institute" professional development series will be offered in the region. The full-day event will allow area professionals to learn how a leader’s behaviors are instrumental in conveying values, guiding strategy and inspiring passion and interest among employees. This day of Disney training will offer dozens of easy-to-implement, proven ideas that can help transform an organization. The program is appropriate for any type of leader - from project managers and intact work teams to senior executives.

The USA is a huge and responsive market for both Canadian and imported products and services. This seminar is designed to help you understand the market, plan your approach, and suggest practical methods and alternatives for implementing your business and marketing plans. Key topics include: (1) dealing with "border issues", such as U.S. travel and immigration planning, U.S. customs clearance, business planning, taxation, currency exchange and legal considerations; (2) understanding "logistics issues", such as establishing a USA business identity, warehousing, transportation, fulfillment, and handling of returned goods; and (3) "sales/marketing strategies", including market overview, sales/marketing fundamentals, lessons and pitfalls. A special new afternoon session will cover "Money, Money, Money!". In addition, the seminar will feature "resource introductions", including the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service.

The Ski to Sea Festival includes a 90 mile relay Race of seven venues from Mount Baker to Bellingham Bay encompassing seven different sports. The Festival also includes a community block party with music and food, a Junior Ski to Sea Race, a historical hometown parade, and other special events that provide a wide variety of entertainment and adventure for all who participate. A Ski to Sea Race team consists of 8 racers (2 in the canoe leg) for the seven race legs (Cross Country Ski; Downhill Ski/Snowboard; Running; Road Bike; Canoe; Mountain Bike; Kayak). More than 400 international teams competed in 2011.

Pacific Customs Brokers hosts a series of educational seminars and workshops to assist business owners, importers, exporters, managers, CFO's, purchasers and shippers on topics relating to Canada and USA importing, exporting and customs compliance.

Angel Forum - Vancouver (founded in 1997) where ~18 selected companies present and exhibit to 50+ pre-screened serious angel investors in one day. Ten companies have been funded or offered funding for $2+ million in last 12 months. Investor Ready workshops are also offered for Investors and Entrepreneurs.