Funded by the Help to Grow: Management Course, this masterclass is designed to equip mentors with the confidence and skills to deliver effective volunteer mentoring as part of the programme.

In this practical session, Ben Leonard from the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) explores the fundamentals of importing and exporting, helping mentors confidently support SMEs that are considering or expanding into international trade.

Whether your mentees are taking their first steps into exporting or looking to grow internationally, this masterclass provides practical guidance, expert insights, and valuable resources to strengthen your mentoring conversations and help business leaders make informed decisions.

In this session, we cover:
• The fundamentals of importing and exporting
• How to identify businesses that are ready to trade internationally
• The opportunities, risks, and challenges facing SMEs entering global markets
• Government support, trade services, and resources available to businesses
• How mentors can effectively signpost and guide mentees through the international trade landscape

What you’ll take away:
• A stronger understanding of the import and export journey for SMEs
• Greater confidence in supporting mentees exploring international markets
• Practical tools and resources to strengthen mentoring conversations
• Knowledge of the support available through the Department for Business and Trade

About the speaker
Ben Leonard is from the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and works with businesses to help them access international trade opportunities. Drawing on his expertise in export support, Ben shares practical advice, government resources, and real-world insights to help mentors better support SME leaders on their international growth journey.

👉 Make the most of your membership and watch the recording today.