History of MGTA

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.

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.

2015 – Achievements

  • Emphasized membership growth during 2015, and grew to over 600 members.
  • Hosted a sold out annual golf event in August 2015.
  • Awarded 2 scholarships to local students.

2014 – Achievements

  • Increased membership.
  • Continued our partnership with the Heartland shippers conference in Kansas City.
  • Started to partner with other organizations/associations on joint events.

2013 – Achievements

  • Member communities launched with targeted events for MGTA Students, Young Professionals, Leaders, and Experts.
  • Host organization for Cargo Business News’ Heartland Shippers Conference in Minneapolis in April.
  • Website re-launch with design improvements and user enhancements.

2012 – Achievements

  • Feed My Starving Children volunteer event.
  • 10th annual golf event.
  • Committee charters clarifying committee structure, responsibilities, and benefits.
  • Inaugural Importer/Exporter of the Year award.

2010 – Achievements

  • Conducted 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.
  • Improved communication with foreign trade associations – Global – using Skype and sharing best practices.
  • Created 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.

2009 – Achievements

  • Continued member involvement & secure members on Committee Leadership levels as well as other forms of involvement.
  • Increased 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.

2009 – Achievements

  • Refined committee structures, start the base of the sponsorship program, increase member involvement
  • Accomplished this through volunteers, end the year with positive cash flow.

2002 – Achievements

  • Merged MWTA and MITA to provide international companies one membership fee for both imports and exports.

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.