Other Federal Agencies

In addition to the U. S. Commercial Service, several other federal agencies offer help to American exporters. These services include export finance and insurance, and special USDA programs for agricultural exports.

OK, to many of us, government agencies can be a confusion of alphabet soup. Even so, the ones listed below can be relevant to U.S. exporters. If you are in doubt about who to contact, we recommend that you start by contacting us.

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Export Import Bank of the United States (ExIm)

The Export-Import Bank of the U.S. assists in financing the export of U.S. goods and services, providing such financial programs as export credit insurance, finance guarantees and many others. Illinois and Wisconsin Director: Michael Howard, Telephone: 312-353-8093, michael.howard@exim.gov. (For a complete regional staff list click here.)

International Trade Administration – ITA 

The ITA, of which the USCS is a part, is charged with strengthening the competitiveness of U.S. industry, promoting trade and investment, and ensuring fair trade through the enforcement of trade laws and agreements. It also publishes the Top Market Reports, and maintains statistical trade data.

Food Export Association of the Midwest USA (covers Illinois)

Created and funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, this is one of four “State Regional Trade Groups” which offer access to USDA programs and resources. These programs include a variety of export training and financial assistance opportunities for the agricultural sector.  This organization also works closely with the Illinois Department of Agriculture. 

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA export credit guarantees)

The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) provides trade finance solutions for exporters of U.S. agricultural products to developing markets. International sales into these markets can pose financing challenges, as U.S. banks may be reluctant to assume the associated credit risk.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA export loans)

Over the years, the U.S. Small Business Administration has developed many small business loan and assistance programs, special outreach efforts and initiatives to aid and inform small businesses. SBA’s Illinois District Office and its Springfield Branch Office are responsible for delivering SBA’s many programs and services throughout Illinois’s 102 counties.

Special loan programs are available for businesses involved in international trade. For additional information, please email Dennis Foldenauer or call him at (312) 353-8065.

Other relevant federal agencies: