Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) announced today that it will present its 21st annual Global Trade Awards at a new Global Trade Symposium Oct. 6 at Gillette Stadium.

The 2016 AIM Global Trade Breakfast Symposium will honor up to four Massachusetts companies, organizations or individuals for distinguished achievement in international business. The event will also bring together experts from throughout the commonwealth to discuss current issues affecting international trade.

AIM’s International Business Council has honored more than 80 companies since initiating the Global Trade Awards in 1996.

“AIM is creating a signature event that will underscore the vital role that international trade plays in the health of the Massachusetts economy,” said Richard C. Lord, President and Chief Executive Officer of AIM.

“Massachusetts is a global economic, educational and research center and AIM is delighted to honor the achievements of the people and companies that have made it that way.”

AIM is currently accepting nominations for the 2016 Global Trade Awards. Nominated companies must demonstrate that they have:

• increased or retained jobs in Massachusetts by entering new global markets;
• demonstrated new or creative solutions for import/export challenges;
• produced or adapted a product line or service for foreign markets;
• established alliances or partnerships to increase international trade; or
• invested in infrastructure or manufacturing in Mass. to enhance trade.

Applications are reviewed and winners selected by a subcommittee of AIM’s International Business Council board.  The deadline for nominations is August 20.

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The 2015 Global Trade Awards went to water-treatment innovator Desalitech, advanced materials leader Hollingsworth & Vose Company, and Massport. Other winners throughout the years have ranged from V.H. Blackinton to Ocean Spray to Pittsfield-based Interprint.

More than 200 Massachusetts business leaders are expected to attend the October 6 Symposium, which will feature a breakfast, keynote speaker, panel discussion, and awards ceremony in the Putnam Club at Gillette Stadium. Executives from across the commonwealth will share insights on how they’ve grown their businesses internationally, what’s made Massachusetts a unique player on the global stage, and what global trade might look like in the future.

“AIM believes that Massachusetts deserves a world-class gathering to celebrate its status as an international trade leader.” said Kristen Rupert, Executive Director of the AIM International Business Council.

“We look forward to honoring Massachusetts companies that play key roles in the global economy, offering innovative products and services produced in Massachusetts to markets across the globe.”