Commerce Calls for Export Council Volunteers Across America
Published Date: 11/24/2025
Notice
Summary
The Department of Commerce is looking for passionate volunteers to join one of 61 District Export Councils (DECs) across the U.S. These councils help local businesses grow by boosting exports and sharing trade know-how. If you want to make a difference, nominate yourself or someone else by December 15, 2025—no pay, but plenty of impact!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Open Volunteer Seats on 61 DECs
The Department of Commerce is seeking nominees for one of 61 District Export Councils (DECs). Approximately half of the seats on every DEC are open for a four-year term that runs through December 31, 2029, and nominations are accepted through December 15, 2025.
Volunteer Role — No Pay or Reimbursement
DEC members serve as unpaid volunteers and receive no compensation or reimbursement for travel and other personal expenses. Membership is explicitly unpaid.
Eligibility Limits and Disqualifications
To be eligible you must be employed as an exporter, an export service provider, or work in a profession that supports U.S. export promotion; you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and reside in or do the majority of your work in the DEC territory. Federal government employees are not eligible; individuals representing foreign governments must disclose that representation and may be disqualified.
Online Application and Information Sharing
All nominees must complete an online application form and consent to sharing the form information with the DEC Executive Committee; if appointed, your contact information may also be shared with other DEC members, government agencies, and private sector trade organizations. The online form is available at the link provided in the notice and nominations are due by December 15, 2025.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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