Pitch your international business plan to UPS and win big prizes.
Hear top speakers discuss how global business can contribute to your corporate success.
The Pitch and Prizes
Small and medium-sized businesses with global aspirations are invited to pitch their international business plans for an opportunity to win up to $20,000 in UPS-sponsored prizes, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara membership, and more.
Speakers
In addition to the pitches, hear Ulla Bak, Co-founder and President, BAK USA, and John Manzella, President and CEO of World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, discuss how international trade can contribute to your corporate growth and success.
Ulla Bak is a Co-founder and President of Bak USA, a newly created social enterprise that builds mobile computers in Buffalo, NY, for U.S. and global markets. In this role, Ulla is responsible for managing all legalese while making critical decisions that propel the progression of the company. Among a long list of prestigious positions in business, law, technology, and human rights, Ulla is a co-founder of Sûrtab S.A., the first tablet PC manufacturing facility in Haiti.
John Manzella is president and CEO of World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara. He’s also chair of the Upstate New York District Export Council, a position appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, and an author of several books. His articles have been nationally syndicated and his views have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, New York Times and Bloomberg.
Judges
Based on select criteria, judges and the audience will determine the winners. The judges include:
- Jack McGowan, Project Manager, Insyte Consulting and Director, Western New York Venture Association/Buffalo Angels
- Peter Coleman, Executive Director, Buffalo Niagara Manufacturing Alliance
- Patrick Whalen, Director, Niagara Global Tourism Institute
This event is complementary to attend, but approval is required for contestants and RSVP is required for non-contestant guests. Dinner and cocktails are included in the event, which will be held at Giancarlo’s Sicilian Steakhouse in Williamsville, NY on October 26 from 3:00 to 7:00 pm.
For candidates interested in pitching international business plans, register at https://global.ups.com/x-portchallenge2017/
To attend the event as a member of the audience, register https://www.eventbrite.com/e/x-port-challenge-2017-you-could-win-10000-tickets-35077023321