Participating in the scheme are Aquapac, Cathelco, Cooney Marine, DockSafe, Marine Computing, MarineTrack, Spectro Oil Analysis and Whale Water Systems.

The BMF says eventually, 1520 UK marine companies are expected to enrol in the yearlong programme.

The programme includes training workshops, preparation of sales and marketing plans tailored to the US market, individual consultation by Home Port and opportunities to participate in major US trade shows such as the Marine Aftermarket Accessories Trade Show (MAATS) and IBEX 2003.

"This mentoring programme is a first for the marine industry, " said Toby Allies, the BMF's director of export services.

"There are many opportunities and challenges facing suppliers interested in selling in the US and this specialised training will assist them in successfully targeting sectors with the highest export potential."

Many of the participating companies will be exhibiting in the US for the first time in a BMF pavilion at MAATS in Las Vegas July 9-11.

A special training workshop to prepare them for product presentation meetings with US buyers at MAATS will be conducted by Home Port at BMF headquarters on June 12.