AI For Export: How to Use AI and Digital Tools to Reach Global Clients
Designed specifically for the ONSIDE: Start Now Incubator, this session helped participants move from “I think I could sell internationally” to a clearer understanding of where to look, who to target, what to say, and what to do next.
In this practical, hands-on workshop, facilitated by Solmaz Ziaabadi, attendees learned how to use AI tools such as ChatGPT and Claude alongside digital research tools to support their export strategy—from researching potential markets and understanding international buyers to developing their positioning, finding prospects, and creating a focused digital marketing plan.
About Solmaz Ziaabadi
Solmaz Ziaabadi is a seasoned entrepreneur with deep, hands-on experience in global trade. Having built and scaled her own import and export businesses—including a dried herb export company and an aromatherapy import brand—she understands the practical realities of taking a business into international markets.
Solmaz has created international buyer pipelines, built relationships with global importers, and negotiated and signed export contracts. She has also developed practical approaches to using low-cost digital tools to research markets, identify potential buyers, communicate with international customers, and build trust across borders.
Beyond her own business ventures, Solmaz is a passionate advocate for women in business. For the past five years, she has supported women entrepreneurs across Canada through initiatives including the Immigrant Women Entrepreneur Network (IWEN) at ISANS and the Start Now Incubator at ONSIDE.
