International Business Symposium Scheduled for May 11

The Cedar Rapids and Iowa City Area Chambers of Commerce, Iowa City Area Development Group and Priority One will host the International Business Symposium on Wednesday, May 11th at The Kirkwood Center. 

During the event International Business Awards are given to an organization that contributes to putting Eastern Iowa in the minds of global business leaders.

This year’s recipients include PMX Industries and West Music Company.   Both companies have significantly contributed to the Corridor’s economic success through company growth, global accomplishments and awareness brought to the region due to their outstanding civic involvement. 

PMX Industries and West Music Company will be recognized during the keynote luncheon and award ceremony on May 11th.

“The symposium provides an opportunity for our local business community to share information, become informed and find resources surrounding international business,” stated Dee Baird, interim president of the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and Priority One president. “It’s also important that we take the time to appreciate our international successes and celebrate our international business accomplishments”

The collaborative event targets businesses actively engaged in international business as well as those beginning to explore the opportunity. Iowa businesses interested in staying current on international business practices or learning about increasing their global presence would benefit from attending. Throughout the day 12 breakout sessions will be offered and three tracks will provided to best

“The symposium equips regional leaders with the knowledge to remain competitive in the global marketplace,” said Nancy Quellhorst, president & CEO of the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce.

The event will offer two keynote speakers; Christopher Wenk, Senior Director of International Policy of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will provide the morning’s keynote address as well as moderate a CEO Panel. The CEO Panel includes Jeff Hamilton, president and CEO of ESP International; Karim Malek, owner of Viz-Tek and Ryan West, COO of West Music. The lunch keynote will feature Jalel Aossey, director of Midamar Corporation.

The Symposium is sponsored by McDonald’s, Bank of the West, Apache Hose & Belting, Lil’ Drug Store Products, ESP International, RadiologyProtocols.com, Canada, and Kirkwood Community College.