A Pathway to U.S. Market Access for African and Caribbean Businesses

Bridging Global Trade and Economic Opportunity

At the GABA Network, we believe that African and Caribbean businesses should have a clear, structured pathway to enter the U.S. market.
That’s why we created the GABA Marketplace Centera trade and business development hub designed to help international entrepreneurs scale, distribute, and sell their products in the U.S.

However, market access is more than just finding buyers—it requires navigating complex import/export regulations, supply chain logistics, and business compliance requirements. To ensure businesses are truly market-ready, we’ve also developed GABAWorks International, the compliance and technical assistance arm that supports vendors through every step of the process.

Together, these two components form a highly structured, end-to-end ecosystem that enables businesses to expand into the U.S. market with confidence and sustainability.

What Is the GABA Marketplace Center?

The GABA Marketplace Center is a multi-channel trade and distribution platform that connects African and Caribbean businesses to U.S. buyers, retailers, and supply chains.
It functions as the vehicle that facilitates market entry by integrating:

  • Retail Access – Businesses can sell through brick-and-mortar stores, e-commerce platforms, and specialty retail partnerships.

  • Distribution & Warehousing – Through our trade hub and logistics network, vendors can store, ship, and fulfill orders efficiently

  • E-Commerce Integration – A digital marketplace powered by Shopify and other platforms allows businesses to reach U.S. consumers online.

  • Product Market Fit & Sales Strategy – Businesses receive data-backed insights to ensure their products align with U.S. consumer demand.

How It Works: The Marketplace as the Vehicle

The marketplace functions like a highway—providing the infrastructure for businesses to enter and operate within the U.S. economy. However, just like any vehicle needs to be licensed, insured, and road-ready, businesses must go through GABAWorks International to ensure they meet all compliance and operational requirements before entering the marketplace.

What Is GABAWorks International? The Business Compliance Engine

Before a business can successfully operate in the GABA Marketplace Center, it must first go through GABAWorks International, our business compliance and technical assistance program.
GABAWorks International ensures that each business is:

  • Legally Registered – We assist businesses in obtaining a U.S. EIN, business entity formation, and tax compliance.

  • Trade-Ready – Vendors receive guidance on tariff classifications, import duties, customs procedures, and regulatory approvals (FDA, USDA, etc.).

  • Financially Structured for Growth – Businesses get support in pricing strategies, financial forecasting, and risk assessment to ensure long-term success.

  • Supply Chain-Ready – Through warehousing, inventory management, and logistics planning, businesses can efficiently move products to U.S. retailers and consumers.

  • Marketing & Consumer Demand Analysis – We help businesses identify target demographics, competitive positioning, and product adaptation for the U.S. market.

How It Works: GABAWorks as the Compliance Hub

Think of GABAWorks International, as a customs checkpoint before businesses can enter the highway of the GABA Marketplace.
It ensures every vendor is verified, compliant, and ready for long-term success, rather than simply being placed into a market without preparation.

Why This Matters for Donors & Partners

The biggest challenge for African and Caribbean businesses entering the U.S. market is navigating the complexity of compliance, distribution, and demand forecasting.
Without structured support, many businesses struggle to scale beyond informal trade networks.

At The GABA Foundation, we are building a sustainable trade ecosystem that creates:

  • Economic Growth – By facilitating trade readiness and distribution channels, we help international businesses create jobs and generate revenue.

  • Stronger Supply Chains – Our platform ensures that authentic African and Caribbean products reach U.S. consumers through verified, scalable distribution models.

  • A Sustainable Business Model – Instead of a one-time transaction-based approach, our system ensures businesses have the tools to succeed for years to come.

Your support helps us expand market access, streamline logistics, and provide critical compliance support for businesses seeking to grow in the U.S. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected global trade network.

Join us in strengthening trade, creating economic opportunities, and making the U.S. market more accessible to African and Caribbean entrepreneurs.

Rhonna-Rose Akama-Makia

Rhonna-Rose is a seasoned professional with nearly two decades of diverse experience spanning political affairs, human resources, finance, and philanthropy. With a deep commitment to excellence, she excels in various settings, from leading teams to collaborating with stakeholders. Rhonna-Rose possesses a profound understanding of intergenerational and cultural leadership, enabling her to create impactful learning experiences prioritizing inclusivity.

She has spearheaded advocacy campaigns securing millions in funding for local schools, mobilized voters for underrepresented candidates, and shifted political polls in deep southern states. Rhonna-Rose's results-driven approach and dedication to promoting progressive values make her a valuable asset in shaping an inclusive future.

https://www.rhonnarose.com
Previous
Previous

February 2025 Donor Report

Next
Next

GABAWorks International Donor Briefing