Trade Association
Our History
In 1977, a small group of individuals representing northwest suburban Chicago area global businesses formed a ?club? to exchange up-to-date information and educate newcomers to international business. Reflecting its geographic location, this group was incorporated in January 1979 as the Northwest International Trade Club. Soon, the ?club? was attracting members from all over the Chicago area, and in 1985 the name was changed to The International Trade Association of Greater Chicago (ITA/GC). Today, ITA/GC attracts members from all over Illinois, across the US, and throughout the world.
We have since become the largest association of its kind in Illinois.
With more than 500 members, we represent a range of interests ? industrial, merchandise, and service companies, consular/diplomatic groups, and academic organizations. ITA/GC is known for independence and balance; we do not develop opinions or hold positions and we have no political affiliation. In order to support this environment of balanced and productive discussion, we seek to maintain a membership balance between manufacturers and service providers.
We bring people and ideas together?on a global scale
ITA/GC continues to be one of the leading non-profit business associations that provide a forum for the exchange of up-to-date and practical information on the latest trends and tools that affect the ever changing global market place.
While our scope of interest is complex, our work is simple ? to help others gain understanding that is personal, current, and useful ? no matter where their ambitions take them in the world.
Awards and Accolades
The International Trade Association of Greater Chicago received the United States of America?s highest international trade award, the President?s ?E? Award for Export Service. We were commended for exemplary leadership and commitment to the development, enhancement and promotion of international trade.
