Trade and Development Agency
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U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is an independent U.S. government agency that promotes economic growth in emerging economies while supporting U.S. jobs through exports. USTDA helps American companies gain access to international markets by funding activities like feasibility studies, technical assistance, and reverse trade missions that lead to sustainable infrastructure projects.
Mission
The mission of the U.S. Trade and Development Agency is to foster sustainable infrastructure and economic development in emerging markets through U.S. private sector engagement. By providing grants for project preparation, USTDA aims to create new export opportunities for U.S. businesses, thereby supporting job creation and economic growth both domestically and abroad.[1]
Parent organization
USTDA operates independently but collaborates with various U.S. government agencies and departments like the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Department of State.
Legislation
USTDA was established by the [Jobs Through Exports Act of 1992](https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/STATUTE-106/pdf/STATUTE-106-Pg2195.pdf).
Partners
- U.S. Department of Commerce
- U.S. Department of State
- U.S. Export-Import Bank
Number of employees
USTDA has approximately 50 employees.[2]
Organization structure
Leader
USTDA is led by a Director.
Divisions
- Program Development for identifying and developing projects.
- Project Implementation which oversees the execution of USTDA-funded activities.
- Regional Offices managing activities in different parts of the world like Africa, Asia, Latin America, etc.
List of programs
- Feasibility Studies - Funding for project planning[3]
- Technical Assistance - Support for project implementation[4]
- Reverse Trade Missions - Bringing foreign decision-makers to the U.S.[5]
Last total enacted budget
USTDA's budget for FY 2023 was approximately $79 million.[6]
Staff
USTDA employs around 50 professionals including program managers, regional experts, and administrative staff to carry out its mission.
Funding
USTDA's funding comes from annual Congressional appropriations, which support its activities in promoting U.S. exports through infrastructure development in emerging markets.
Services provided
USTDA provides services by funding feasibility studies, technical assistance, and orientation visits that help in the planning and development of infrastructure projects. These services are designed to create opportunities for U.S. companies in sectors like energy, transportation, and digital infrastructure, thereby fostering economic growth and development.[7]
Regulations overseen
USTDA does not oversee regulations but operates within U.S. foreign policy and trade guidelines to support commercial activities.
Headquarters address
1000 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 1600, Arlington, VA 22209, USA
History
Established in 1992 with the Jobs Through Exports Act, USTDA evolved from earlier programs aimed at promoting U.S. exports through international development projects. It has since played a key role in linking U.S. businesses with infrastructure development opportunities around the world, supporting both economic growth and U.S. job creation.
External links
References
- ↑ "About USTDA". U.S. Trade and Development Agency. https://www.ustda.gov/about.
- ↑ "Leadership". U.S. Trade and Development Agency. https://www.ustda.gov/about/leadership.
- ↑ "Feasibility Studies". U.S. Trade and Development Agency. https://www.ustda.gov/program/feasibility-studies.
- ↑ "Technical Assistance". U.S. Trade and Development Agency. https://www.ustda.gov/program/technical-assistance.
- ↑ "Reverse Trade Missions". U.S. Trade and Development Agency. https://www.ustda.gov/program/reverse-trade-missions.
- ↑ "H.R.2471 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022". Congress.gov. https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2471/text.
- ↑ "Programs". U.S. Trade and Development Agency. https://www.ustda.gov/program.