Santander UK has committed to a three-year sponsorship of a programme of Department for Business and Trade (DBT) events, which will help UK businesses of all sizes realise the opportunities presented by global trade.

The sponsorship will cover DBT’s flagship annual export initiative, International Trade Week, taking place from 11th to 15th November 2024, as well as the UK Export Academy and a number of international trade shows.

Now in its fourth year, International Trade Week is a collaboration between DBT and industry featuring a variety of free activities such as masterclasses, workshops and webinars. It’s aimed at all UK businesses, whether they are looking to secure their first export contract or expand their existing international sales.
Themes running through the week this year include digital trade, selling to Europe and exporting for the first time, although events will cover a wide range of topics. Attendees will be able to develop their exporting knowledge and skills, hear from international-trade experts and learn about the support on offer from DBT and its partners, including Santander UK.

DBT and Santander UK share a common goal; to help UK SMEs grow through exports. This partnership demonstrates that both organisations are working hand in hand to that end.

John Carroll, Head of International and Transactional Banking, Santander UK, said:

“It’s an exciting time to be a UK business looking to expand globally, but it’s not without its challenges. Our Trade Barometer research shows that businesses are calling out for more support from government and the private sector, and we’re pleased to be working with DBT to play our part in helping businesses turn their international dreams into a reality.

“Through our local connections, international teams and digital international trade platform, Santander Navigator, we’ve already helped over 1,500 companies grow internationally since 2019.  We are thrilled to be supporting International Trade Week as part of the launch of a multi-year partnership, enabling us to make a difference to the UK’s economic growth by supporting even more UK businesses in taking their next step on their export journeys.”

Gareth Thomas, Minister for Exports, said:

“When businesses export, they hire more staff and increase wages which all helps to grow the economy. That’s why we’re working with businesses of all sizes to cut trade barriers and open new routes to market.

“Santander’s three-year backing of our International Trade Week is a strong endorsement of the UK’s trade and investment strategy, as we work together to get more small businesses growing and exporting around the world.”

Businesses can register for International Trade Week at: great.gov.uk/campaign-site/itw.