Tag: small business

Aquacycl wins $25K MetroConnect export grand prize

By Bree Burris,

World Trade Center San Diego and 150+ voting audience award $25K for international expansion

World Trade Center San Diego (WTCSD)—home of the region’s Export Small Business Development Center—named Aquacycl, which provides industrial wastewater treatment as a service to reduce costs and environmental impact, as the winner of the MetroConnect export accelerator program, now in its seventh year. Made possible through a grant from JPMorgan Chase & Co., Booz Allen Hamilton, and Deloitte, Aquacycl will use the $25,000 award to expand its presence in Europe and Mexico with its patented BETT system and micro-aeration solutions.

“In a volatile time for global trade, the results of MetroConnect’s seventh cohort are impressive and proof of the importance of international expansion for small- and mid-sized companies,” said Lucas Coleman, director of WTCSD. 

“Our Grand Prize winner Aquacycl embodies the strength of San Diego’s innovation economy, leveraging our excellence in clean technology on an international stage. Whether it’s streamlining customs processes, identifying, and securing reliable distributors, or cultivating leads in India, Turkey, and the UK amid economic uncertainty, we know that connectivity to international markets grows jobs and business resilience here at home.”

Escondido-based Aquacycl beat out three other finalists in MetroConnect VII, Epitope Diagnostics, Sunday Golf, and Surf Loch. The grand prize-winning company was decided via real-time audience vote during the Grand Prize PitchFest event June 5 at The Alexandria. Prior to this, a committee of senior international business leaders in San Diego helped the WTCSD team nominate these top performers, out of the initial 15-company cohort.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

In seven years, MetroConnect has helped 110 local, small and mid-sized businesses generate a net increase of $106 million in international sales, 552 international contracts, and 28 overseas facilities. Cohort companies have seen on average 66 percent export growth and 45 percent revenue growth. This international growth has coincided with 357 new hires here in the San Diego region.

Each cohort year, WTCSD selects 15 export-ready small businesses to receive $5,000 export grants, access to executive workshops, translation software, travel perks with international airlines flying out of SAN, and a chance to win a $25,000 grand prize to aid in further international market expansion. Applications for year eight of the MetroConnect program are now open through June 30, 2025. Interested small- and medium-sized companies that are looking to pursue international sales as a near-term priority or already exporting its goods or services may apply here.

apply at MetroconnectSD.org

GLOBAL CONNECTION IN CHANGING TIMES

Changes at the federal level have drastically shifted the rhetoric around global trade, but the truth remains. According to The World Bank, countries that trade internationally enjoy more economic growth, are more innovative and productive, and can provide more opportunities to citizens. San Diego is no exception—regional small businesses that export tend to have a larger and more diversified customer base, pick up best practices from global competitors, build up economies of scale, and ultimately pay their employees more. Access to international customers and markets is essential in helping San Diego’s boost resilience, as small businesses employ nearly 60 percent of San Diegans.

”We’re incredibly honored to be named this year’s MetroConnect Grand Prize Winner,” said Orianna Bretschger, CEO and Founder at Aquacycl. “The program has been instrumental in accelerating our international growth strategy, helping us expand into new markets while navigating complex export logistics and regulations. This recognition validates the critical role water reuse and decentralized wastewater solutions play in building a more sustainable future.”

“For over a decade, JPMorgan Chase and MetroConnect have partnered to help San Diego businesses grow globally and innovate boldly,” said Aaron Ryan, Managing Director for San Diego Middle Market Banking at program underwriter JPMorgan Chase. “We’re living in a new era of uncertainty, and navigating complex global markets takes the right support. San Diego’s businesses are rising to the challenge, and we’re proud to help them seize opportunities on the world stage.”

WTCSD hosted its MetroConnect Grand Prize PitchFest on June 5, with remarks by Nikia Clarke, Executive Director, WTCSD; Mayor Todd Gloria, City of San Diego; Andy Laats and Chad DiNenna, Co-founders, Nixon; and program underwriter Michael Monroe, Principal, Director of Data Science, Booz Allen, among others.

WTCSD maintains year-round support for global expansion through its Export Specialty Small Business Development Center and international trade missions.

learn more

MetroConnect Spotlight: Surf Loch

By Sophia Antonopoulos,

World Trade Center San Diego (WTCSD) works directly with companies free of charge to help them expand internationally and grow in San Diego, supported by San Diego Regional EDC’s 150+ private company and public agency investors. Since 2015, WTCSD’s MetroConnect export accelerator has assisted 110 San Diego companies in turning $1 million in export grants into $106 million in new international sales, 552 new international contracts, and 28 new offices around the world.

We sat down with Ranney Lochtefeld, a partner at MetroConnect VII finalist Surf Loch, to discuss the company’s artificial wave pools and its recent international growth through its time in MetroConnect.

Tell us about Surf Loch and its mission.

Surf Loch is a company based in San Diego, 

California that specializes in designing and building surf pools and wave-generating technology for surfing. We are utilize highly-controllable pneumatic wave generating technology (compressed air and vacuum) to create quality surfing waves, just like the ocean and design and engineer the underlying technology that makes man-made surfing lagoons possible, offering controlled and repeatable waves for surfers of all levels, anywhere away from the ocean. 

Why did you apply to be in MetroConnect?

We applied to be in MetroConnect to optimize our international exporting. Being able to competitively export our products to minimize customs duties has proven difficult, as we utilize many original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts that can be purchased in-country, but our specialty expertise is assembling them together and providing our software to connect everything.  

Determining the mix between ‘services’ exports and ‘durable goods’ exports with our integrated systems adds a layer of complexity to our export process but also opens opportunities to minimize taxable duty. 

How did MetroConnect help your company?

Our company was unaware of all the support, grant, and mentorship opportunities that were available to us before our introduction to the MetroConnect program. The program has been an invaluable resource for us to help navigate the complex world of international exports.  

We appreciate the resources they have put together and the way they make it easy for us to have a one-stop shop to find the resources we need to effectively sell our products and services abroad. We intend on using the contacts made and resources made available in the future as we continue to expand our global footprint.

What is on the horizon for Surf Loch’s international growth?

The international expansion of the surf pool market is growing rapidly. We believe that there is a strong market for our products and services abroad and we are actively expanding our business in Europe, MENA, and Brazil. We intend on continuing to utilize the resources made available to us from the MetroConnect program for years to come.

What advice would you give to companies interested in growing internationally and participating in MetroConnect?

Ensure that you understand the regulatory compliance requirements of where you are exporting to, and whether you will be subject to domestic licensing or reporting requirements.  

Before starting the program, we were unaware that there were so many potential export requirements we could be subject to, so the MetroConnect program was very helpful in providing information on these topics. 

On June 5, Surf Loch is pitching to win $25,000 toward international growth:

JOIN US to Cast your VOTE →

Your turn: Grow your international sales with MetroConnect, too!

Like Sunday Golf, apply to join MetroConnect VIII, and receive an export grant, expert advising, workshops, regional mentors, and more.

APPLY NOW →

The application takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Plus: Learn how 110 MetroConnect alumni, including Dr. Bronner’s, Blue Sky Network, EDDY Pump, and White Labs, leveraged the program to drive 66 percent average export growth and 45 percent average revenue growth.

MetroConnect Spotlight: Aquacycl

By Sophia Antonopoulos,

World Trade Center San Diego (WTCSD) works directly with companies free of charge to help them expand internationally and grow in San Diego, supported by San Diego Regional EDC’s 150+ private company and public agency investors. Since 2015, WTCSD’s MetroConnect export accelerator has assisted 110 San Diego companies in turning $1 million in export grants into $106 million in new international sales, 552 new international contracts, and 28 new offices around the world.

We sat down with Orianna Bretschger, CEO of MetroConnect VII finalist Aquacycl, to discuss the company’s industrial wastewater treatment and its recent international growth through its time in MetroConnect.

Tell us about Aquacycl and its mission.

Aquacycl provides industrial wastewater treatment as a service to help companies reduce operational costs, mitigate climate impacts, and support healthy watersheds and communities worldwide. Our products and services guarantee permit compliance, greenhouse gas mitigation, reliable performance in variable production environments, and operational savings.

Aquacycl is revolutionizing the treatment of challenging industrial wastes generated from food and beverage, chemical, pharmaceutical, and petrochemical facilities, with a total serviceable market opportunity approaching $100 billion, and our existing clients include PepsiCo and other global enterprises in food, beverage, and chemical production.

Why did you apply to be in MetroConnect?

Aquacycl applied to be in MetroConnect for the wide variety of business resources and export support the program provides. We hoped to expand our international presence, particularly in Mexico and Europe, where industrial water challenges are rapidly growing and sustainability regulations are tightening.

How did MetroConnect help your company?

As a growing company, the support and resources MetroConnect has provided have been invaluable. For example, we were able to use the program’s grant in order to cover some of the broker fees associated with the export of our system into Mexico.

We also leveraged MetroConnect to access valuable international business resources that helped us strengthen our export readiness and better navigate the complexities of international shipping and compliance.

What is on the horizon for Aquacycl’s international growth?

Aquacycl intends to accelerate sales in the EU due to the region’s increasingly strict regulatory framework and emphasis on circular economic initiatives. We will also continue to grow sales within the tequila and mezcal distilling regions of Mexico to help customers avoid business risk through water reuse initiatives.

What advice would you give to companies interested in growing internationally and participating in MetroConnect?

The advice we would give other companies beginning to grow internationally is to understand and take advantage of the suite of great resources MetroConnect offers. We also recommend companies keep export manifests short and simple to speed up inspections and avoid extra shipping or border fees.

On June 5, Aquacycl is pitching to win $25,000 toward international growth:

JOIN US to Cast your VOTE →

Your turn: Grow your international sales with MetroConnect, too!

Like Sunday Golf, apply to join MetroConnect VIII, and receive an export grant, expert advising, workshops, regional mentors, and more.

APPLY NOW →

The application takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Plus: Learn how 110 MetroConnect alumni, including Dr. Bronner’s, Blue Sky Network, EDDY Pump, and White Labs, leveraged the program to drive 66 percent average export growth and 45 percent average revenue growth.

MetroConnect Spotlight: Sunday Golf

By Sophia Antonopoulos,

World Trade Center San Diego (WTCSD) works directly with companies free of charge to help them expand internationally and grow in San Diego, supported by San Diego Regional EDC’s 150+ private company and public agency investors. Since 2015, WTCSD’s MetroConnect export accelerator has assisted 110 San Diego companies in turning $1 million in export grants into $106 million in new international sales, 552 new international contracts, and 28 new offices around the world.

We sat down with Ronan Galvin, co-owner of MetroConnect VII finalist Sunday Golf, to discuss the company’s modern golf gear and its recent international growth through its time in MetroConnect.

Tell us about Sunday Golf and its mission.

Sunday Golf operates in the golf industry with a mission to remind the world that life is meant to be enjoyed. Our core focus is designing the best golf bags that match any style of play—whether you’re heading to a par 3 course, the driving range, a simulator, or a full course. We also offer options tailored for kids.

Our brand stands out by being more relatable than aspirational, connecting with the everyday golfer in a fun and approachable way.

Why did you apply to be in MetroConnect?

We applied to be in the MetroConnect program for support exporting internationally. Sunday Golf currently exports to the UK, Western Europe, Canada, Australia, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand—markets chosen for their robust golf culture and demand.

Exporting is critical for us as it dramatically expands our opportunity to share our products and mission worldwide, but it can come with challenges such as gaining access to new markets and identifying reliable distributors. Our goal in applying for the MetroConnect program was to leverage their resources and advice as we continued to grow.

How did MetroConnect help your company?

The MetroConnect program has played a pivotal role in our international expansion. It enabled us to exhibit at the PGA Show, where we connected with key distributors. We also hosted our Australian distributor in San Diego, further strengthening our relationship. And we are strongly considering exhibiting or visiting the Japan Golf show next March.

Through the U.S. Commercial Service, a key MetroConnect partner, we were introduced to valuable contacts in new foreign markets. As a result, we secured international distribution agreements with Grand Trading (Canada), Vin Distribution (Southeast Asia), and Second Chance (UK/Western Europe).

The foundational export strategy and mentorship provided by WTCSD have been game-changing.

What is on the horizon for Sunday Golf’s international growth?

Over the next year, Sunday Golf will continue strengthening relationships and growing sales in our current international markets. A key focus will be identifying and securing distribution partners in untapped regions such as Japan, South Korea, the Middle East, and potentially Latin America. We also plan to increase participation in international trade shows and further invest in our digital marketing efforts to support global growth.

What advice would you give to companies interested in growing internationally and participating in MetroConnect?

For companies looking to expand internationally, we strongly recommend leveraging WTCSD and its mentorship programs. As a small, bootstrapped company, WTCSD has been invaluable in helping us to grow our business internationally and create more jobs in San Diego.

With MetroConnect’s support, Sunday Golf was able to go from $0 in international revenue to $1M in forecasted international revenue in just one year. We would not be where we are today without the program.

On June 5, Sunday Golf is pitching to win $25,000 toward international growth:

JOIN US to Cast your VOTE →

Your turn: Grow your international sales with MetroConnect, too!

Like Sunday Golf, apply to join MetroConnect VIII, and receive an export grant, expert advising, workshops, regional mentors, and more.

APPLY NOW →

The application takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Plus: Learn how 110 MetroConnect alumni, including Dr. Bronner’s, Blue Sky Network, EDDY Pump, and White Labs, leveraged the program to drive 66 percent average export growth and 45 percent average revenue growth.

MetroConnect Spotlight: Epitope Diagnostics

By Sophia Antonopoulos,

World Trade Center San Diego (WTCSD) works directly with companies free of charge to help them expand internationally and grow in San Diego, supported by San Diego Regional EDC’s 150+ private company and public agency investors. Since 2015, WTCSD’s MetroConnect export accelerator has assisted 110 San Diego companies in turning $1 million in export grants into $106 million in new international sales, 552 new international contracts, and 28 new offices around the world.

We sat down with Laura Mendez, Customer Service Representative at MetroConnect VII finalist Epitope Diagnostics Inc., to discuss the company’s in-vitro diagnostic products and its recent international growth through its time in MetroConnect.

Tell us about Epitope and its mission.

Epitope is dedicated to the development, manufacturing, and marketing of high-quality, innovative in-vitro diagnostic products. We serve the global research, pharmaceutical, and healthcare sectors, with a strong commitment to addressing the world’s unmet medical needs. Our goal is to be a leading contributor in advancing healthcare solutions worldwide.

Why did you apply to be in MetroConnect?

We applied to be in MetroConnect for support as we began our international exporting journey.

The global medical diagnostics market is growing rapidly and competitive, and as a manufacturer of clinical laboratory diagnostic products, Epitope benefits from working across multiple regions. However, the process can be challenging for growing companies like ours, so the resources and support MetroConnect offers are invaluable to promote products of San Diego.

How did MetroConnect help your company?

Thanks to the support provided by the MetroConnect program and the Export SBDC team at WTCSD, Epitope successfully applied for the STEP program and was awarded a grant. This funding has partially covered our participation in trade shows in Dubai and Germany, significantly contributing to our efforts to expand into global markets.

Most importantly, we have continued to receive valuable counseling and mentorship from WTCSD, MetroConnect, and the U.S. Commercial Service. They have been instrumental in assisting us, from connecting with key contacts outside the U.S. for our current registration, to helping us apply for grants through the STEP program to offset trade show costs. With the help, Epitope was able to grow from two shows in 2023 to six shows in 2025.

What is on the horizon for Epitope’s international growth?

Epitope has plans for expansion, and with all our new partnerships, we are confident about the trajectory of our international sales growth. We are moving to a new building in San Diego to accommodate three times more space.

Additionally, we plan to continue exhibiting at trade shows and are likely to attend new ones. This year, we have added four more international shows to our list for promoting our products. Our ongoing strategy focuses on targeting more partners with our innovative products with six patents in Europe, India, the Middle East, and South America.

What advice would you give to companies interested in growing internationally and participating in MetroConnect?

Our advice would be to evaluate and understand your market thoroughly. Select the right partners, such as distributors, freight forwarders, or customs brokers, ensuring they are reliable and experienced. Look for partners with local knowledge and expertise in navigating the complexities of the target market. Familiarize yourself with the local regulations as well as those in the export destination.

Thanks to MetroConnect we have been connected with excellent partners and received support throughout this process.

On June 5, Epitope is pitching to win $25,000 toward international growth:

JOIN US to Cast your VOTE →

Your turn: Grow your international sales with MetroConnect, too!

Like Epitope Diagnostics, apply to join MetroConnect VIII, and receive an export grant, expert advising, workshops, regional mentors, and more.

APPLY NOW →

The application takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Plus: Learn how 110 MetroConnect alumni, including Dr. Bronner’s, Blue Sky Network, EDDY Pump, and White Labs, leveraged the program to drive 66 percent average export growth and 45 percent average revenue growth.

Apply now: California Competes Tax Credit

By San Diego Regional EDC,

APPLY for up to $215M in Tax Credits

Is your business considering expanding outside of the state or in need of assistance relocating or retaining jobs in California over the next five years?

You may be eligible for up to $215 million in Cal Competes Tax Credit from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz). Applications for this last round will be accepted from now through March 10.*

GO-Biz bases awards on several factors relative to the State of California, including:

  • Number of jobs created or retained
  • Anticipated amount of new capital investments
  • Overall economic benefit
  • Opportunities for future growth and expansion
  • The extent to which the tax credit influences the applicant’s decision to relocate jobs from states that have enacted laws that permit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression; or deny or interfere with women’s reproductive rights

For more information on eligibility and assistance, visit the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) website.

*Note: This is the final application period for the California Competes Tax Credit for fiscal year 2024-2025.

need help applying?

Since 2015, EDC’s expert team has supported 39 companies in winning more than $86 million in Cal Competes Tax Credits. EDC also offers San Diego companies access to services including permitting, site selection, and consulting for economic incentives like Cal Competes—available at no cost.

CONTACT EDC NOW FOR APPLICATION sUpport

Cal Competes applications open February 24 and close March 10, 2025.

“EDC was an integral resource for our redevelopment. They were able to strategically bring key partners together and secure incentives that best positioned us to redevelop our headquarters in the Kearny Mesa area.”
–Anshooman Aga, EVP & CFO, Cubic Corporation, which secured a California Competes Tax Credit of $8 million

MetroConnect Spotlight: Solecta

By Javier De Leon,

World Trade Center San Diego (WTCSD) works directly with companies free of charge to help them expand internationally and grow in San Diego, supported by San Diego Regional EDC’s nearly 200 private company and public agency investors. Since 2015, WTCSD’s MetroConnect export accelerator has assisted 95 San Diego companies in turning $890,000 in export grants into $97 million in new international sales, 543 new international contracts, and 32 new offices around the world.

We sat down with Melinda Burn, vice president of strategic marketing for MetroConnect VI finalist Solecta, to discuss the company’s membrane separation technologies and recent international growth through its time in MetroConnect.

Tell us about Solecta and its mission.

Solecta Inc., based in Oceanside, California, is a leader in membrane separation technologies with a unique go-to-market strategy focused on rapid customer-centric innovation, deep domain process expertise, and value delivery. With our proprietary membrane and element design and manufacturing capabilities, we develop and deploy novel and critical separation products and technologies that help our clients optimize yield, improve purification, and reduce water and energy usage.

Why did you apply to be in MetroConnect?

Solecta applied to be in MetroConnect to leverage the program’s resources and expertise in international trade to enable global expansion, tap into new markets, and increase revenue opportunities. Through the program, we hoped to establish valuable networking connections and gain insights into navigating the complexities of international export compliance and regulations.

How did MetroConnect help your company?

MetroConnect helped Solecta by providing grants that assisted with increasing and improving digital marketing activities and advancing our global commercial go-to-market strategy. In addition, through MetroConnect and its partners, we were able to apply for and be awarded a grant from the California State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). Since joining the MetroConnect program, Solecta has grown its international presence, resulting in increased revenue and brand recognition. We have expanded our workforce in Europe, allowing us to better serve our clients in the region.

What is on the horizon for Solecta’s international growth?

Through MetroConnect’s extensive network and resources, such as the STEP grant, we have been able to reach prospective clients in new regions and navigate the complexities of the global regulatory landscapes to enter new geographic markets. Our ultimate goal is to create more connections and grow our strategic partnerships in various regions through the MetroConnect network to enable the expansion of our international business and grow our manufacturing and R&D footprint in the greater San Diego area. The comprehensive resources provided by the MetroConnect program will help us deliver even more value to our clients as a top industry leader.

What advice would you give to companies interested in growing internationally and participating in MetroConnect?

To successfully expand globally, a company must conduct thorough market research to comprehend the target markets, cultural nuances and competitive landscape. Developing a solid market entry strategy that considers local regulations, distribution channels and customer preferences is essential. Moreover, utilizing established networks like MetroConnect can provide valuable resources, connections, and insights to ensure successful expansion efforts.

Your turn: Grow your international sales with MetroConnect, too!

Like Solecta, apply to join MetroConnect VII, and receive an export grant, expert advising, workshops, regional mentors, and more.

APPLY NOW →

The application takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Plus: Learn how five cohorts of 80 MetroConnect alumni, including Dr. Bronner’s, Blue Sky Network, EDDY Pump, and White Labs, leveraged the program to drive 63 percent average export growth and 40 percent average revenue growth.

MetroConnect Spotlight: Novo Brazil Brewing

By Javier De Leon,

World Trade Center San Diego (WTCSD) works directly with companies free of charge to help them expand internationally and grow in San Diego, supported by San Diego Regional EDC’s nearly 200 private company and public agency investors. Since 2015, WTCSD’s MetroConnect export accelerator has assisted 95 San Diego companies in turning $890,000 in export grants into $97 million in new international sales, 543 new international contracts, and 32 new offices around the world.

We sat down with Tiago Carneiro, owner and founder of MetroConnect VI finalist Novo Brazil Brewing, to discuss the company’s Brazilian-inspired beverages and its recent international growth through its time in MetroConnect.

Tell us about Novo Brazil Brewing and its mission.

Novo Brazil Brewing is an international, award-winning beverage company based in Chula Vista, California. Our company thrives on producing high quality beer, seltzers, spritz and kombuchas with exotic flavors, which are all represented in our brand’s colorful packages. Our main production facility is located in Eastlake, Chula Vista, and includes a taproom to serve the community. In addition to the wholesale part of our business, Novo Brazil Brewing has opened four taprooms and restaurants in San Diego County.

Why did you apply to be in MetroConnect?

We applied to be in the MetroConnect program for a few reasons:

  • To develop our export program: Logistics, international regulations, compliance, networking, etc.
  • To grow our business network in San Diego
  • To grow our brand exposure domestically and internationally

How did MetroConnect help your company?

The main benefit we experienced joining MetroConnect was definitely access to San Diego’s expansive business network through EDC’s staff. A few outcomes of this partnership included sponsorships and events, deeper connections with City of Chula Vista and SDG&E, and introductions to freight forwarder companies, San Diego Airport’s Terminal 1 concessions groups, and the San Diego Convention Center.

Additionally, the program’s executive workshops always provided our team with essential information for doing business internationally, and put us in direct contact with experienced mentors.

Finally, for quite a while, we were not sure how to best utilize the program’s $5,000 export grant—and we ended up using it to lower the high shipping costs for our distributors in Europe.

What is on the horizon for Novo Brazil Brewing’s international growth?

MetroConnect made us realize that exporting is a great source of business and income for our company. We already have established sales in Europe and Japan, and the goal now is to increase volume. We are positive that our beverages now being shelf stable will open more doors for export expansion, and we want to take advantage of this.

What advice would you give to companies interested in growing internationally and participating in MetroConnect?

It is essential to fully understand your products, your processes, and your business goals before growing internationally. Having a strong presence and an established brand in your local market are key for targeting international markets.

Your turn: Grow your international sales with MetroConnect, too!

Like Novo Brazil Brewing, apply to join MetroConnect VIII, and receive an export grant, expert advising, workshops, regional mentors, and more.

APPLY NOW →

The application takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Plus: Learn how five cohorts of 80 MetroConnect alumni, including Dr. Bronner’s, Blue Sky Network, EDDY Pump, and White Labs, leveraged the program to drive 63 percent average export growth and 40 percent average revenue growth.

Access Trax wins $25K MetroConnect VI export grand prize

By World Trade Center San Diego,

World Trade Center San Diego and 200+ voting audience award $25K for international expansion

World Trade Center San Diego (WTCSD) named Access Trax, which provides ADA compliant portable access mats for outdoor accessibility, as the winner of the MetroConnect export accelerator program, now in its sixth year. Made possible through a grant from JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Procopio, Access Trax will use the $25,000 award to expand its presence in markets such as Canada and Australia.

With more than 75 million people around the world using a wheelchair on a daily basis, Access Trax’ portable, foldable mats create pathways to access outdoor terrain like sand, grass, gravel, and snow that is otherwise impossible to navigate.

“Access Trax is the perfect reflection of San Diego’s life-changing innovation, leveraging our region’s excellence in manufacturing and lifestyle to help drive accessibility around the globe,” said Lucas Coleman, WTCSD Director. “The company’s results from MetroConnect’s sixth cohort are impressive. Whether it’s fine-tuning the go-to-market strategy in target markets such as Canada or alleviating critical language translation challenges, working to connect small and medium-sized businesses to international markets builds greater resilience here at home.”

The female-founded small business Access Trax beat out three other finalists in MetroConnect VI, Novo Brazil Brewing, Nano PharmaSolutions, and Solecta. The grand prize-winning company was decided via real-time audience vote during the Grand Prize PitchFest event May 11 at UC San Diego Park & Market. Prior to this, a committee of senior international business leaders in San Diego helped the WTCSD team nominate these top performers, out of the initial 15-company cohort.

“The MetroConnect program was instrumental in helping us lay the foundation for our strategic international growth. Access Trax is thrilled to earn the top vote of the audience and judges and we look forward to using the $25K towards local job creation and continued export growth for an even bigger impact,” said Kelly Twichel, CEO of Access Trax, the MetroConnect VI Grand Prize winner.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

In its first six years, MetroConnect has helped 95 local, small and mid-sized businesses generate a net increase of $97 million in international sales, 522 international contracts, and 32 overseas facilities. This international growth has coincided with 319 new hires here in the San Diego region.

Each cohort year, WTCSD selects 15 export-ready small businesses to receive $5,000 export grants, access to executive workshops, translation software, and a chance to win a $25,000 grand prize to aid in further international market expansion. Applications for year seven of the MetroConnect program are now open through July 14, 2023. Interested small- and medium-sized companies that are looking to pursue international sales as a near-term priority or already exporting its goods or services may apply here.

GLOBAL CONNECTION TO BOOST RESILIENCE

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the national rhetoric around global trade has shifted. According to The World Bank, countries that trade internationally enjoy more economic growth, are more innovative and productive, and can provide more opportunities to citizens. San Diego is no exception—regional small businesses that export tend to have a larger and more diversified customer base, pick up best practices from global competitors, build up economies of scale, and ultimately pay their employees more. Access to international customers and markets is essential in helping San Diego’s business community recover after the COVID-19 pandemic, as small businesses employ 60 percent of San Diegans.

“For nearly a decade now, JPMorgan Chase and MetroConnect have teamed up to help San Diego businesses push the boundaries of innovation and growth,” said Aaron Ryan, Managing Director for San Diego Middle Market Banking at JPMorgan Chase. “San Diego is one of the most resilient economies in the U.S., and we keep seeing how businesses here are primed to realize their full potential across the globe.”

WTCSD hosted its MetroConnect Grand Prize PitchFest on May 11, with remarks by Nikia Clarke, Executive Director, WTCSD; Kevin Cox, President, Electra Bicycle Company; Danny Fitzgerald, Regional Director, San Diego & Imperial SBDC Network; and program underwriter Aaron Ryan, Managing Director for San Diego Middle Market Banking, JPMorgan Chase.

WTCSD has year-round, non-exclusive international opportunities that help companies break expand internationally, such as the Export SBDC and strategy for global engagement.

Learn more about WTCSD

Open now: California Competes Tax Credit

By San Diego Regional EDC,

ABOUT THE California Competes Tax Credit

Is your businesses growing in the state of California over the next five years, or at risk of leaving California? Applications are now open for companies seeking a tax credit to offset state income tax liability. The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) has $85 million in tax credits available for your company in this funding round.

Awards are primarily based on the following factors, including:

  • Number of jobs created or retained
  • Anticipated amount of new capital investments
  • Overall economic benefit to the state
  • Opportunities for future growth and expansion

For more information on eligibility and assistance, visit the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) website.

Apply by March 20

Get help applying

Learn about the application process via California GO-Biz’s on-demand webinars:

Fill out the form linked below to request application assistance from EDC staff, free of charge.

HELP MY BUSINESS APPLY

“Creative Electron is very pleased with the support received from CMTC and EDC. We are constantly thinking of our growth goals and how to get there. We believe our people and diversity make us great, and by providing them with the tools to expand their skill set, we are confident we will be able to exceed our ambitious goals.”
–Mariem Ortiz, VP of Operations at Creative Electron, which secured a California Competes Tax Credit of $446,700.

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