CAMBRIDGESHIRE Chambers of Commerce is to extend its USA Business Partnering programme to enable more Huntingdonshire businesses to forge profitable links with US companies. Earlier this year, the chambers International Sector formed a partnership with M

CAMBRIDGESHIRE Chambers of Commerce is to extend its USA Business Partnering programme to enable more Huntingdonshire businesses to forge profitable links with US companies.

Earlier this year, the chambers' International Sector formed a partnership with MetroHartford Alliance, a 2,300 member-driven organisation.

It draws on the business expertise of the Metro Hartford Chamber of Commerce to form the region's lead business and economic development organisation. Centred on Connecticut, the organisation links companies from New York to Boston.

In May, 20 local companies, including IT software providers, engineering technology, life sciences and leisure were quick to sign up to the scheme and are being actively promoted by MetroHartford Alliance with a view to securing business partners.

The enthusiasm with which the project has been received in Connecticut has encouraged organisers to extend the scheme and invite more companies to take advantage.

The chambers' chief executive John Bridge said: "We are delighted that businesses from such a wide range of sectors have recognised the potential in working with similar companies in the USA."

The programme is being organised in conjunction with UKTI and East of England International, with support from Cambridgehire-based companies including Le Mark, of St Ives.