Northwest Aerospace News April | May Issue No.14 | Page 12

I f you are a U.S. firm that has “experienced a decline in sales, in units or dollars, a decline or impending decline in em- ployment or worker hours” you may be eligible for TAAF. Reading the qualifications as outlined in the Trade Act, you’ll realize this program has its nuances like all government programs. NWTAAC can help you through these qualifications to determine your firm’s circumstances under the guidelines and may increase your potential eligibility. The NWTAAC assis- tance in preparation of the petition for application for certification is free of charge. Petitions have been completed within two weeks, but many take longer. They are quite rigorous, and their approval can take time (around three months). David Holbert, NWTAAC’s executive director, says firms can proceed with confidence. “This is not a situation where you pitch your case and hope you get approved. It is a situation where you document your business condition against known criteria. NWTAAC prepares all the forms and guides you through the entire process. We have never submitted a petition that has not been successful. You may wait to get approved, but you will be waiting with very high confidence of success.” 12 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS