Bradley receives grant for Asia focused curricula and business assistance

Peoria, Illinois...April 1, 2002...Congressman Ray LaHood announced today that Bradley University has been awarded a federal grant totaling $170,000 to increase Asia-specific curricula and business assistance for exports to Asia.

The project, known as Target Asia, received funding from the U.S. Department of Education Business and International Education Program for two years starting in July.

"International trade plays a tremendously important role in the economy of Central Illinois," said Congressman LaHood, "and the people at Bradley University understand that importance. These federal dollars will help Bradley create a program to assist Illinois companies expand trade with Asia, and at the same time provide students the skills to compete in the international business arena."

The development of Asia-specific curricula at Bradley is designed to enhance students' international awareness, understanding, and international business skills. The grant will fund faculty development, curricular enhancements, and add a travel component to Bradley's International Senior Consulting Project (ISCP) program. The grant also will fund the establishment of an Asia Trade Center at Bradley to improve the competitiveness of Illinois companies in trade with Asia markets through training, counseling and the ISCP.

"International understanding and international business skills are vital for success in our global economy," said Dr. Robert Baer, Dean of the Foster College of Business Administration at Bradley. "Target Asia will assist the College in addressing this important part of the curriculum as well as increase our commitment through the Turner Center for Entrepreneurship to outreach efforts for Illinois businesses."

The Asia Trade Center will be housed in the Turner Center for Entrepreneurship in the Foster College and, accessing the resources and personnel of the International Trade Center and NAFTA Opportunity Center, will address Asia-specific issues for business clients. Assistance with government procurement opportunities in Asia will be a focus of the Asia Trade Center.

Supporting partners in the Target Asia project include Bradley's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs Office of Small Business and Illinois Trade Office, U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Council for Central Illinois, Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, Illinois Manufacturing Extension Center, and the Peoria Area World Affairs Council.