Since 1999, Grand Valley State University's (GVSU's) Van Andel Global Trade Center (VAGTC) has been a trusted resource for Michigan businesses looking to expand globally. We specialize in import and export training, international trade consulting, cultural seminars, and global market entry strategies to help companies navigate the complexities of global trade.

Whether you are:

• Exploring new international markets,
• Ensuring trade compliance with customs regulations and export control laws, or
• Sourcing international suppliers to strengthen your global supply chain,

Van Andel Global Trade Center is Your Partner in Global Business Success!

Bridging the Gap Between Michigan Businesses & Global Trade Opportunities

As a leading international trade center in Michigan, Van Andel Global Trade Center is centrally located within GVSU’s Seidman College of Business in downtown Grand Rapids. The Center connects local businesses to global markets by providing affordable international business training and expert global trade guidance. As an outreach center of Grand Valley State University, and in collaboration with a strong network of corporate partners, the Center offers both onsite and public global trade training programs to support businesses across Michigan and beyond.

International Trade Events & Business Resources

Each year, the Center hosts 25+ international business events in Michigan, partnering with industry leaders to deliver export training, import training, international trade compliance workshops, cultural seminars, and global business networking opportunities, click on the Events tab above to see what we have coming up! We collaborate with community organizations and corporate sponsors to ensure businesses have access to the latest import/export regulations, trade compliance best practices, and international market insights.

Supporting the Next Generation of Global Business Leaders

Through real-world consulting projects, international research, and global business events, Van Andel Global Trade Center provides hands-on learning opportunities to GVSU students, preparing them for careers in global trade, logistics, and international business development.

Grow Your Global Business with Expert Support

Success in today’s global marketplace requires strategic planning and expert guidance. Whether you're an experienced exporter or importer or new to global business, GVSU’s Van Andel Global Trade Center is your partner for international business growth.

Contact us today to learn how The Center can help you expand globally, optimize your supply chain, and confidently navigate international trade compliance!

“The team at Van Andel Global Trade Center is great to work with and is a wealth of knowledge. Love all the training they do. Who else could make learning about international so much fun.“ 

- Scott V., Google Review

“The VAGTC is an invaluable resource for exporters and importers of all sizes. Their educational programs will help companies with all degrees of experience in international trade. VAGTC has shown me that American business, particularly in Michigan, is 100% competitive and successful in international trade!”

- Paul Vandevert, Vandevert Trade Law 

INTERNATIONAL JOB BOARD

Are you hiring? Let us help! Email VAGTC your job openings and they will post them right here on our International Job Board. Are you job seeking? Click here to see available job opportunities!

EXPORT-IMPORT BANK OF THE U.S.

Since 2005, Van Andel Global Trade Center has been the designated representative of EXIM Bank for Michigan. Connecting Michigan exporters with access to information and assistance on the export finance programs available. Learn more about Export-Import Bank of the U.S.

KENT-OTTAWA-MUSKEGON FOREIGN-TRADE ZONE

In 1999, Van Andel Global Trade Center became the administrator of the Kent-Ottawa-Muskegon Foreign-Trade Zone. Learn More About Kent-Ottawa-Muskegon Foreign-Trade Zone.