From data to decisions: International Trade Center students help grow Midwest businesses

Sixteen undergraduate students from the University of Missouri’s Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business will direct their time and talents this semester to help four small- to medium-sized companies based in Missouri and Kansas grow their sales internationally. 

As interns with the International Trade Center, the students will be conducting global market research to assist the 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. The participating companies likewise gain in-depth county and industry sector analysis that can be used to support and guide future decision-making regarding international market expansion opportunities. 

Companies working with the International Trade Center this semester include: 

• Link Electronics (Branson, MO): The manufacturer of innovative broadcast and closed-captioning equipment that supports communication and accessibility across industries. Link’s commitment to quality and reliability helps organizations connect with audiences more effectively.
• M.A. Associates (Overland Park, KS): An alternative fuels company supplying tire-derived fuel (TDF) and tire wire to industries like pulp and paper mills, power generation, utilities, and cement facilities. The company emphasizes environmental responsibility and offers both fuel supply and logistics support to customers.
• Messner Bee Farm (Raytown, MO): A family-owned business dedicated to sustainable beekeeping and handcrafted products made with pure, local honey. Messner’s mission is to support pollinators while creating natural goods that connect people to the hive.
• Salvajor (Kansas City, MO): A third-generation, family-owned manufacturer delivering commercial food-waste disposers and scrapping systems engineered to save water, energy, and maintenance time. 

The Trulaske College of Business International Trade Center utilizes the time and talent of student interns and Mizzou faculty, along with leading market research databases, to conduct customized research to meet the businesses’ needs. The research completed by the students helps participating companies effectively evaluate global market opportunities in a timely, meaningful and affordable way. The goal of the International Trade Center is to promote economic development and aid in the international decision-making of businesses, while providing Mizzou students — tomorrow’s business leaders — opportunities for experience-centered learning.

Mizzou’s Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business prepares students for success as global citizens, business leaders, scholars, innovators and entrepreneurs by providing access to transformative technologies, offering experience-centered learning opportunities and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset.