A Newcastle Emlyn-based enterprise will help Welsh small businesses expand.

Antur Cymru Enterprise is enabling small businesses to capitalise on export opportunities through the Global Reach Out Programme.

Funded by the UK Government and backed by Levelling Up, the fledgling drive is expected to stimulate Welsh businesses' potential in the realms of trade and overseas partnerships.

A wealth of funded training sessions, which resume this month, is the programme's key pillar. Under the guidance of international trade advisor, Clive Barnard, businesses of all scales can enhance their knowledge of global sales and customer relations.

Mr Barnard, boasting more than three decades of industry experience and a decade-long stint with Business Wales, is set to be a leading figure in the training sessions.

Being a central figure in launching the International Trade Support Group (ITSG) in 2019, he believes small and independent companies across all sectors should focus on exports.

Mr Barnard said: "Our Never Too Small to Export programme with Antur Cymru demonstrates there is a market out there for all businesses, especially at a grass roots level."

He affirmed that numerous small firms have already dipped their feet into exports.

Detailing the programme's function, he noted: “In Wales since the pandemic - and this is certainly the case in Powys and rural areas of north and mid Wales - there are many talented independents in different sectors, especially retail, selling online and in a position to capitalise on the huge demand out there - we can help them do it."

The team guides businesses through hurdles like geopolitical events and other intricate aspects like targeting countries, transport, logistics and documentation.

Mr Barnard believes that interest in the 10-week course will surge in the coming months. Additionally, he stressed the programme's continued role through guidance and advice, even after its duration.

Specialist advice in a range of business contexts will also be accessible through Antur's Local Business Support Project. Mr Barnard said: "We have a robust understanding of opportunities to enable local businesses to grow their markets.”

Antur Cymru managing director, Bronwen Raine, added: “So many small businesses are unaware of the many opportunities out there globally.

"This programme explores where they are and how to make the most of them.

"It is fantastic to be able to expand our offer into this specialist area with the support of ITSG.”

The ambitious Global Reach Out Programme is anticipated to be a vehicle for improving and highlighting export prospects among Welsh businesses.