How the USTDA Powers U.S. Exports and Global Development – Carl Kress

Our latest Energy Superhero is Carl Kress, the Regional Director & Worldwide Energy Sector Team Leader at the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA). With over two decades of experience at the USTDA and a background in international trade law, Carl has helped American companies sell more abroad and helped U.S. allies around the world get critical projects built. By connecting domestic manufacturers with important projects globally, Carl and his team are bringing made-in-the-USA products to countries around the world. 

In this episode, Carl discusses the critical work of the USTDA, sharing insights into its mission, achievements, and the broader impact on energy and economic development worldwide:

• The USTDA aligns U.S. businesses with international development opportunities by promoting American goods, services, and technologies abroad. It provides grant funding for feasibility studies, technical assistance, and pilot projects to transition ideas into actionable projects, benefiting both U.S. companies and partner countries.
• A standout achievement of the USTDA is its remarkable return on investment (ROI). For every single dollar invested, the agency generates over $231 in U.S. exports. This shows how government investments can stimulate significant economic benefits in the right context. 
• Carl addresses the challenges and opportunities in disaster torn regions, where USTDA helps rebuild critical infrastructure. This includes USTDA’s efforts to rebuild Iraq’s energy system post-conflict, or creating emergency response protocols in Southeast Asia following the 2004 tsunami. Looking forward, USTDA is planning how to assist energy needs in Ukraine. Despite geopolitical hurdles, the USTDA remains committed to proactively addressing global energy needs through collaboration with stakeholders.

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