Gov. Sam Brownback on Tuesday announced a $250,000 grant to the Kansas Department of Commerce and Kansas Global Trade Services aimed at increasing exports by Kansas companies.

Wichita-based Kansas Global Trade Services will identify companies and industry clusters capable of increasing the volume of exports or adding new customers and new markets, said organization president and CEO Karyn Page.

Under the contract, Kansas Global will hold meetings to build awareness about exporting, and it will identify local companies with export potential and connect them to technical assistance and training programs. In addition, an export service provider directory with a referral guide will be developed and distributed.