Project Description
State of California
California is considered the golden gateway for trade and investment in the United States. As the 5th largest economy in the world, the state houses more than four million small businesses and 53 of the Fortune 500 companies. Trade agencies within California perform similar functions to those of some federal agencies in promoting international commerce, including providing trade assistance and loan guarantees. Trade and investment officers, financial analysts, economists, program directors, public relations officers and administrators oversee the development of trade related to the State of California.
The Office of International Affairs and Trade Development
International trade in California has become the responsibility of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development. The importance in global trade and its contribution to the state’s economy led to the creation of the office’s International Trade Division which supports the Governor and other elected officials on issues regarding trade, international relations, foreign investment and trade agreements. This office works to promotes California exports as well at the image of the state as a venue for foreign investment.
California Travel and Transportation Agencies
The California Travel and Tourism Commission promotes travel to and within California. The Commission works closely with California’s travel industry to build awareness among travelers, the travel trade, and the media and works closely with other state agencies to attract and retain tourism economic development programs. It utilizes a variety of tools, including national and international ad campaigns, travel trade sales missions, familiarization tours, and heightened California presence at major travel trade shows.
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)
For the past 100 years, Caltrans has been moving the people and commerce of
California from a loosely connected web of footpaths and rutted wagon routes to the sophisticated system that today serves the transportation needs of more than 37 million residents. Caltrans is responsible for planning, designing, building, operating and maintaining California’s state highway system, in addition to rail, mass transit and aeronautics.
Division of Boating and Waterways
This division protects the public’s right to safe and enjoyable boating on the waters of California. To accomplish this, DBW promotes boating safety and education, assists local boating law enforcement agencies, ensures uniformity in boating regulations, and licenses for-hire boat operators and yacht and ship brokers.
California’s Natural Resources Agency oversees the conservation, enhancement, and management of California’s natural and cultural resources, including land, water, wildlife, parks, minerals, and historic sites. The agency administers numerous departments, boards, conservancies, commissions and programs.
California Transportation Commission
The California Transportation Commission consists of eleven voting members appointed by the Governor, all appointed to staggered four-year terms; and two non-voting ex-officio members, one each from the State Senate and the Assembly. The Commission allocates funds for the construction of highway, passenger rail and other transit improvements throughout California. It advises and assists various agency secretaries and the Legislature in formulating and evaluating state policies and plans for California’s transportation programs
The International Visitors Council of Los Angeles (IVCLA)
The IVCLA is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that increases awareness for American citizens and for the nearly 1,000 international delegates who visit Los Angeles through IVCLA’s program each year. The organization provides all those participating with a unique opportunity to come together and work towards international cooperation by taking the time to understand and learn about each other’s cultures. IVCLA also provides these delegates with opportunities for professional advancement by arranging specific meetings with people in their field of work.
Additional organizations include:
Northern California World Trade Center
California Chamber Council for International Trade
Foreign Trade Association of Southern California
Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, Center for Global Trade and Foreign Investment
World Trade Center Association Los Angeles