SMITHFIELD, RI — Bryant University’s John H. Chafee Center for International Business is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2025 Global Trade Summit. Taking place September 25–26, this two-day event is a premier gathering for business leaders, government officials, academics, and entrepreneurs looking to explore global trade trends, emerging technologies, and new market opportunities.
“The Global Trade Summit reflects Bryant University’s commitment to global engagement and our role as a leader in international higher education,” said Ross Gittell, Ph.D., president of Bryant University. “By convening global leaders in commerce, government, academia, and finance, this event not only fosters meaningful dialogue on trade and foreign direct investment, it also reinforces and expands Bryant’s international network, strengthening our impact on the world stage. We look forward to welcoming our distinguished speakers and guests to campus this September.”
Featuring a series of panel discussions, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities, the 2025 Global Trade Summit will focus on how international commerce is being reshaped by geopolitical shifts, artificial intelligence, and changes in U.S. trade policy. Attendees will gain strategic insights into global expansion, supply chain resilience, export finance, and the tools needed to thrive in today’s evolving trade environment.
“At a time of rapid change in global trade, the need for actionable intelligence and strategic insight has never been greater,” said Jason Kelly, director of the John H. Chafee Center for International Business. “The Global Trade Summit is designed to equip business leaders with the tools, knowledge, and resources they need to navigate complexity and seize new opportunities in international markets. We’re proud to lead this effort at Bryant University and to help companies across the region expand their global reach.”
Highlights of this year’s conference will include a diplomatic panel on global trade perspectives featuring consulate representatives from the U.K., Canada, and other nations; sessions on AI’s impact on international business; practical workshops on logistics, export strategy, and financing; and breakout sessions highlighting foreign direct investment opportunities in key Rhode Island industries such as life sciences, the ocean economy and food manufacturing. A panel featuring Rhode Island's congressional delegation, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo, will offer insights on federal trade policy, global relationships, and support for American businesses. The Summit will also feature a keynote address from James W. Keyes, former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, who will offer his unique perspective on innovation, global markets, and lessons learned from leading two of the world’s most recognized retail brands through changing market landscapes.
Interested parties can register for the Global Trade Summit by clicking here. Additional information about the event, including the working agenda, participating speakers, and travel accommodations, can be found at global-trade-summit.bryant.edu. .
The 2025 Global Trade Summit is sponsored by:
- Media Sponsor: The Boston Globe
- Gold Sponsors: AVTech, Citrin Cooperman, Rhode Island Commerce, Taco Comfort Solutions, and Waterson Terminal Services
- Silver Sponsors: Consulate General of Canada, JF Moran, J.P. Morgan, and Santander Bank
- Bronze Sponsors: CIC Providence, Quonset Development Corporation, and TD Bank.
About Bryant University
For 160 years, Bryant University has been at the forefront of delivering an exceptional education that anticipates the future and prepares students to be innovative leaders of character in a changing world. The university delivers an integrated academic and student life experience with nationally recognized academic programs at the intersection of business, liberal arts, and health and behavioral sciences.
Located on a 465-acre contemporary campus in Smithfield, R.I., Bryant enrolls approximately 3,800 undergraduate and graduate students from 41 states and 50 countries. Bryant is recognized as a top 1 percent national leader in student education outcomes and ROI and regularly receives high rankings from U.S. News and World Report, QS Stars, Money, Bloomberg Businessweek, Wall Street Journal, and College Factual.
About the John H. Chafee Center for International Business
The John H. Chafee Center for International Business is Rhode Island’s designated agency for world trade and export activities. For over 40 years, the center has been committed to growing Rhode Island’s local economy through a global reach.
Through partnerships with RI Commerce, the Small Business Administration, local government, and trade organizations the Chafee Center encourages global business expansion, retention, and attraction. It administrates the SBA’s State Trade and Expansion Program (STEP grant), providing access to funding for small businesses to grow their global reach.
The Chafee Center’s other programs include international trade missions and shows, strategic consulting, market research, and broad-based events. The center works closely with the faculty, staff, and students to provide customized business consulting services to Rhode Island-based enterprises.
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For more information, contact:
Chris Raia
Duffy & Shanley for the John H. Chafee Center
(m) 240.463.8718
craia@duffyshanley.com
