The Dalton, Ga.-based American
Floorcovering Alliance (AFA) recently received a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission — a
federal/state partnership that works with the people of Appalachia to create opportunities for
self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life. The grant is to be used for AFA’s
export initiative program for Domotex 2007 in Hannover, Germany.
Domotex, a leading floor covering trade show, is an important venue for floor covering
companies to showcase their products in an international setting. AFA states that the grant will
help create and sustain jobs in northwest Georgia, particularly small companies who find it
difficult to participate in international trade shows.
“From our many years of experience at Domotex, we know that if small Georgia companies can
afford to go, it will generate sales, expand their overseas distribution and create jobs,” said
Wanda Ellis, executive director, AFA.
To secure the grant, Ellis worked with Robert Erwin, International Trade Center consultant,
University of Georgia Small Business Development Center; Rick Martin, senior international trade
specialist, Georgia Department of Economic Development, International Trade Division; and the staff
of the North Georgia Regional Development Center, Dalton.
March 14, 2006
