United States Department of Commerce Supports Private Sector Participation in $12 Billion Industry - IMAGINE USA featuring Study USA - Mexico City...

Over 586,000 international students in the United States during 2002/03 represented an estimated $12 billion dollars in buying power, making education and related spending the countrys fifth largest export category. Under the Imagine USA banner, participating colleges and universities exhibit at highly promoted in-country expos and events around the world to recruit international students to the United States. Now, corporations and organizations can showcase products and services targeted at the student demographic alongside educational institutions.

Seattle, WA (PRWEB) February 15, 2004 --The International Consortium of Educational Opportunities Media Ltd., (ICEO Media Ltd.) announced today that the United States Department of Commerce has certified and is fully supporting its unique Imagine USA show to be held in Mexico City this November. Imagine USA will bring together both non-educational U.S. based private enterprise firms and well-established U.S. colleges in this Study USA event to feature a full spectrum of student services that will enhance the experience of all even participants.

"Imagine USA positions ICEO to more fully assist U.S. colleges and universities attract and recruit international students" said Don Huber, Program Manager of Certified Trade Fairs at the U.S. Department of Commerce. Mr. Huber continued, This first-time combination of educational and related industry exhibitors gives all exhibitors a new dimension and opportunity to develop helpful consumer and educational relationships with tens of thousands of international students before they come to the United States for study. The Mexico City kick-off will launch the Imagine USA concept in selected countries around the globe.

Over 586,000 international students in the United States during 2002/03 represented an estimated $12 billion dollars in buying power, making education and related spending the countrys fifth largest export category. Under the Imagine USA banner, participating colleges and universities exhibit at highly promoted in-country expos and events around the world to recruit international students to the United States. Now, corporations and organizations can showcase products and services targeted at the student demographic alongside educational institutions.

Juanita Ramos, CEO and Founder of ICEO Media Ltd., said, The main benefit to participating companies is the highly targeted access to affluent consumers who have an immediate need." Ms. Ramos went on to say that companies ranging from restaurants to retail fashion, from banking services to Internet services" will be successful at the events. These students and their families come to the United States because we have the best educators in the world and theyre looking for the authentic American experience. Commercial partners are now going to be a big part of that experience."

Imagine USA events produced by ICEO in 2004 and 2005 are planned for Europe, Asia, India and Latin America. Most notable is the Universitarea event in Mexico City, Mexico during November 2004. Produced in conjunction with the Mexican government and officials from the U.S. Embassy Mexico, Universitarea draws tens of thousands of visitors from Mexico and Central America.

Bryan Larsen the Commercial Attaché of the U.S. Embassy Mexico stated Universitarea is a great opportunity for U.S. companies to connect with prospective students and influential consumers in Mexico beyond those coming to the United States to study. Participating companies will show their support, commitment to U.S. education, local markets, further establish the reach and influence of their brand in the region."

More Information

More information about Imagine USA events is available on the website www.imagineusa.us , by calling the Company at 1-206-523-7872 or by sending an e-mail to info@imagineusa.us. Participation and sponsorship packages for U.S. companies including exhibit space, in-country pre-event promotion, travel arrangements security and other services start at $5,000 per event with discounts available for multiple events.

About ICEO and Affiliates

Working under exclusive certification from the U.S. Department of Commerce, ICEOs worldwide activities represent and promote the promise of America. The Companys core belief is that education is the key driver for the advancement of a peaceful global society and the development of sustainable growth across world markets. ICEOs Imagine Study USA events are produced with support from U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration -- Washington, DC, Members of the Global Education Board, the United States Embassy Mexico, World Trade Center Tacoma, Paguirigan Branding & Design, jtaG Productions, Lynn Brewer of Ethics Examiners and Enterprise Actions, LLC.

Author: Derek Drake, Enterprise Actions     Tel: 425-876-3950 Fax: 425-642-8085 derek@enterpriseactions.com