MGTA History

Since 1924, business people from Minnesota and neighboring states who share an interest in international business opportunities have joined together to exchange ideas, experiences and information through the programs and services offered by the Midwest Global Trade Association (MGTA). MGTA remains active and growing today, stimulated by new members and changes in the global market place.

MGTA is a nonprofit organization supported entirely by the efforts and contributions of its membership. The association draws on the talents and resources of international professionals and corporations throughout the region. Members include companies of all sizes and levels of international experiences, as well as individuals with a range of business interests and perspectives. Anyone interested in international trade is invited to become a member and share the experience.

2010 Midwest Global Trade Association Mission Statement

The Midwest Global Trade Association supports the global trade community through professional development, networking, and industry resources.

A History of Commitment to Global Trade

The Midwest Global Trade Association has evolved through several name changes and has shared affiliation with other organizations.

2003 – Midwest Global Trade Association (MGTA)

The consolidation of MITA and MWTA created the new Midwest Global Trade Association (MGTA). The association continues to grow and evolve, reflecting the richly diversified needs of its members. With dedication and commitment to international business, the association is well positioned for continued success and growth into the 21st century and will continue to deliver value to its membership.

1996 – Midwest Trade Association (MWTA)

On May 21, 1996, MWTA was recognized for its outstanding contribution towards international trade with the “Governor’s International Trade Award.” MWTA’s 72 year history had served Minnesota’s international business community to promote Minnesota’s image, educate thousands and bring Minnesota’s international business interests together for a common purpose.

1985 – Midwest Importers Trade Association (MITA)

Midwest Importers Trade Association (MITA) was founded in May 1985. MITA’s early accomplishments were to help avert a reduction of import services provided by Minneapolis/St. Paul U.S. Customs District. Today, the U.S. Customs continues to maintain full service capabilities in the Twin Cities as a result of this concerted effort on the part of MITA and other trade and business groups.

1984 – Minnesota World Trade Association (MWTA)

In its 60th year, the association had grown to 450 members. April 11, 1984 was declared “World Trade Day” by the City of Minneapolis and the State of Minnesota. The records of MWTA were donated to the Minnesota Historical Society recognizing the historical significance of the association in the State of Minnesota.

1983 – MWTA

Education programs became an important and distinct function within the MWTA organization.

1957 – MWTA

With a new name, the association formulated its primary mission: To promote and encourage world trade. To accomplish this objective the association further defined its role:

• Professionalize international business through enhancement of skills and competence levels.
• Provide forums for the exchange of practical foreign trade information and shared experiences.
• Provide a vehicle for expressing members’ views on foreign trade legislation to our government representatives.

1930 – Northwest World Trade Club

The group expanded in size and scope of opportunities.

1924 – Export Club

The first meeting of interested businesspersons was convened in St Paul. The shared interest was export opportunities for member companies.

Past Presidents

President's Goals

2010 – Mari McClafferty's Goals

• To outreach to trade groups in the Midwest – North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin. Currently we have seven cooperating organizations based in the Twin Cities.
• To improve communication with foreign trade associations – Global – using Skype and sharing best practices.
• To create educational opportunities that will WOW you for both Import and Export with top-notch speakers and a new certification program including a scholarship for the next generation of international trade students.

Past Presidents' Goals

2009 – Sandy Taylor's Goals

• Continue member involvement & secure members on Committee Leadership levels as well as other forms of involvement.
  
• Increase sponsorship programs for webinars and the entire year.
  • For seminar locations, meals & such for education
    
  • For webinars, forums, location, cost
    
  • For printing & supplies
    
  • Grow webinars, blogs & other hi-­?tech initiatives showing the MGTA as current with global changes & able to communicate on hot topics

2008 – Christine Nelson's Goals

• To refine committee structures, start the base of the sponsorship program, increase member involvement
  
• They accomplished this through volunteers, end the year with positive cash flow.

2002 – Susan Senger's Goals

In early '80s international industry was split into one export and one import association.

• Goals: To Merge MWTA and MITA to provide international companies one membership fee for both imports and exports.
  
• Susan approached Paul Johnson who was the MITA president and Susan was the MWTA president. Together they merged the 2 association s successfully.