The New Jersey District Export Council (NJDEC) is an organization of leaders from across New Jersey whose knowledge of international business provides a source of professional advice for local firms. Closely affiliated with the U.S. Commercial Service, New Jersey Offices, the NJDEC provides local leadership in international trade through its 30+ member council of international trade veterans and expertsl appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce. The District Export Council: collaborates with New Jersey businesses, public and private sector groups to stimulate economic growth through trade and investment; advocates for a well-informed public and political dialogue about global business in New Jersey; prepares New Jersey to be a “global ready” State; and supports the New Jersey U.S. Export Assistance Centers. The New Jersey District Export Council, serves as an advocate for international trade issues that impact New Jersey. At the federal level, the New Jersey DEC works in conjunction with congressional and senatorial offices to represent export-oriented New Jersey businesses and their interests. The Council also works with city, county and state partners to address trade issues that are local and regional in nature. The mission of the District Export Council is supported through activities such as: Counseling and mentoring of local businesses in exporting; Identifying export financing sources for businesses; Creating greater export awareness in the business community locally; Identifying issues affecting export trade and implementation of suggestions for improvement; Advocating trade policy and legislation supporting exporters and the U.S. export sector; Supporting programs and services of the U.S. Export Assistance Centers; Building local export assistance partnerships with other trade-related organizations; Providing export training and education through Export University® programs .