2026 Global Pathways: Expanding Alabama Businesses into International Markets
This event has been cancelled.
The Office of Global Business at the Alabama Department of Commerce connects Alabama companies to global markets while attracting international investment that strengthens the state’s economy. Through Export Alabama, the office provides customized export training, foreign market research, and hands-on assistance to help businesses navigate financing, compliance, and international growth.
Companies can participate in state-led trade missions and trade shows, and benefit from advocacy that supports a strong international business climate. Together, these services equip Alabama businesses with the tools, connections, and intelligence needed to compete and succeed globally.
David Sides
International Project Manager, Office of Global Business
Alabama Department of Commerce
David Sides serves as an International Project Manager within the Office of Global Business at the Alabama Department of Commerce. In this role, he works to market Alabama’s global competitiveness and advance job creation and economic growth through international engagement. The Office of Global Business is responsible for assisting Alabama companies in accessing foreign markets; supporting and coordinating diplomatic visits; supporting Alabama’s foreign direct investment attraction efforts; and strengthening Alabama’s international ecosystem. The Office of Global Business manages Export Alabama, a tight-knit alliance of local, state and federal partners with the fundamental objective of helping Alabama companies grow their business internationally.
Sides is a two-time graduate of Mississippi State University with undergraduate degrees in international finance and German, as well as a master’s degree in German. He and his wife live in Birmingham with their Siberian husky, Franklin, and their rabbit, Bertie.
Robert Stackpole
Director, Alabama District Office
International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce
Robert Stackpole serves as Director of the Alabama District Office of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. In this role, he leads export promotion and trade counseling efforts across the state, helping Alabama companies grow through international sales. His office supports U.S. firms with trade counseling, market intelligence, business matchmaking, and commercial diplomacy—leveraging the U.S. Commercial Service’s global network of offices in over 75 countries.
With more than 25 years of experience in international trade spanning both public service and the private sector, Robert is a Certified Global Business Professional and has completed extensive advanced training in global business strategy, export compliance, and trade policy. He joined the U.S. Department of Commerce in 2008 and has remained focused on helping U.S. firms compete effectively in global markets.
He currently serves as Chair of the Alabama World Trade Association, Executive Secretary of the Alabama District Export Council, and Co-Lead of the Export Alabama Alliance. He previously served as Global Team Leader for the International Trade Administration’s Travel & Tourism industry team.
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Date and Time
Thursday May 21, 2026
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM CDT
Fees/Admission
Online Registration
Members: $15
Non-Members: $20
Onsite Registration
Members and Non-members: $20
No refunds will be processed after May 13, 2026. Refunds to credit cards will be charged a 6% processing fee.
Contact Information
Diana Baccus
256-535-2009
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