While global markets continue to face uncertainty surrounding tariffs, trade disputes, and international logistics, Smart Controls has continued growing its international reach by taking advantage of strategic export opportunities and strong statewide partnerships.
Earlier this year, Smart Controls exhibited at the AHR Expo in Las Vegas—one of the world’s premier trade shows for the HVACR industry. The event brought together more than 50,000 industry professionals and manufacturers from over 100 countries, creating valuable opportunities for the company to connect with international prospects, distributors, and partners from around the globe.
Smart Controls manufactures advanced building automation technologies that integrate into both new and existing infrastructure, helping commercial property owners efficiently manage HVAC systems through intuitive, energy-focused solutions. By participating in the AHR Expo, the company was able to initiate conversations and opportunities across Latin America, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe—all without the added complexity and expense of overseas travel.
“We were able to initiate new opportunities across Latin America, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe by exhibiting at the AHR Expo,” said company president David Kniepkamp. “Considering the uncertainty surrounding international travel and trade, participating in a major global trade show here in the U.S. is an invaluable opportunity.”
To support the company’s participation, Smart Controls worked closely with the Illinois SBDC International Trade Center at Bradley University and the Illinois Office of Trade and Investment to secure funding through the Illinois State Trade Export Promotion (ISTEP) program. The ISTEP program helps Illinois companies offset costs associated with international trade development, including trade show participation and export-related travel expenses.
According to Jim Ryan, export assistance programs like ISTEP can play a major role in helping Illinois businesses expand globally. “ISTEP provides reimbursement support that allows Illinois companies to participate in major international trade opportunities and proactively grow their export markets,” Ryan explained.
Kniepkamp also highlighted the collaborative effort that helped make the opportunity successful. Through coordination between the Illinois Office of Trade and Investment, the International Trade Center network, and export specialists across the state, Smart Controls received assistance with funding, export planning, and compliance guidance as the company explores new international markets.
“These resources help Smart Controls leverage opportunities like AHR to grow our international presence more effectively,” Kniepkamp shared. “The support we received was crucial to our success.”
As Smart Controls continues expanding into new regions and strengthening its international partnerships, the company serves as a strong example of how Illinois manufacturers can successfully navigate global markets through innovation, adaptability, and strategic export support.
The Turner Center and Illinois SBDC International Trade Center are proud to support Smart Controls as they continue growing their international presence and representing Illinois innovation on a global stage.
Contact Information
(618) 394-0300