The programme is a partnership between the BMF and UK Trade & Investment and offers UK companies special training to help sell their products and services in the USA.

Training is provided by US-based consulting firm Home Port Marine Marketing.

Participating companies will attend training workshops, receive help on preparation of sales and marketing plans tailored to the US market and get an individual consultation with Home Port, one of the leading US marine marketing firms.

Finally, companies get opportunities to participate in major US marine products trade shows, such as MAATS (Marine Aftermarket Accessories Trade Show) and IBEX (International Boatbuilders' Exposition).

"The US is a very competitive market, " said Home Port Marketing's COO David Pilvelait. "Breaking in requires far more research, preparation and dedication than any other market in the world. But the rewards can be significant."

Pilvelait says the buying process in the US has some unique aspects and understanding the differences has been key to the success of the UK suppliers in the mentoring programme. "A good part of the training suppliers receive in the mentoring programme focuses on meeting and negotiating with US buyers, who can be very demanding, " he said.

Training sessions are conducted by Home Port's president, Jim Georgiadis, who headed the product buying staff for major US retailer BoatU.S. for over 15 years.

At the recent MAATS in Las Vegas in July, EchoPilot and Barton Marine - both companies that have gone through the mentoring scheme - received 2004 Product Innovation Awards from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) for new products introduced at the show.

Home Port's Pilvelait will meet with UK companies interested in the US mentoring programme each day of the Marine Trade Show. An appointment must be scheduled prior to the show by calling BMF Export Services on 01784 223640 or by emailing npascoe@britishmarine.co.uk