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Assisting Missouri Businesses in Going Global – Fall 2023
Pictured (L-R, front to back): MU International Trade Center interns for Fall 2023 include Aisling Kerr, Caleb Mitchell, Karlee Rindt (graduate assistant), Melissa Henderson, Alicia Shane, Libby Broadhurst, Mariah Oke-Thomas, Kate Rodgers, Christian Mergia, Ty Rouse, Even Ghebrai, Peyton Boyd, Dylan Wiles, Devin Bly, Jake Wilson, Grant Novinger (graduate assistant) and Sean Michel. Not pictured: Anh Ha Nguyen
Sixteen University of Missouri & Trulaske College of Business undergraduate students will direct their time and talents this semester to help four small- to medium-sized companies based in Missouri grow their sales internationally. As interns with the MU International Trade Center, the students will conduct global market research to assist these companies with new market identification and evaluation. All projects are tailored to the individual company’s product and industry sectors of interest. Interns gain valuable hands-on data analysis, project management and presentation experience, along with real-world insights into global trade. Participating companies gain in-depth county and industry sector analysis that can be used to support and guide future decision making. Companies working with the MU International Trade Center this semester include:
- Edelbrand Pure Distilling (Marthasville, MO), a family-owned and -operated craft spirits producer of handcrafted European-style unaged fruit brandy and bierbrand
- Innovating Solutions (Kansas City, MO), the manufacturer of Tappecue, a smart electrical temperature monitor that works on Wi-Fi for BBQ professionals and enthusiasts
- Pets Best Life (Kansas City, MO), the manufacturer of Yummy Combs®, a flossing dog treat addressing three key health concerns for dogs: dental health, nutrition and safe eating
- Spirit of ’76 Fireworks (Columbia, MO), a premier distributor, importer and wholesaler of firework supplies
The MU International Trade Center utilizes the time and talent of student interns and MU faculty, along with leading market research databases, to conduct customized research to meet the needs of its business partners. The research completed helps participating companies effectively evaluate global market opportunities in a timely, meaningful and affordable way. The center's goal is to promote economic development and aid in the international decision-making of Missouri businesses, while providing MU students — tomorrow's business leaders — opportunities to learn by doing.