The past few years have been a tumultuous, competitive time for businesses engaging in international trade and foreign direct investment. Globalization’s allure has waned, protectionism is on the rise, and new “Industry 4.0” technologies threaten the global status quo. In response, under Governor Newsom’s leadership, California is now planning to launch a new trade and investment program that will allow state innovators, small businesses, and entrepreneurs to continue to find ways to flourish and export their ideas and products across the world. This is a pivotal moment for California’s state policy and business leaders to rally support for a new trade and investment program that will increase the state’s global competitiveness. What remains to be done to bring this strategy to action and achieve clear progress? This session will convene government and business leaders to discuss bringing this new strategy to reality through collaboration on financing support and facilitating exporters.