Slade Inc., of Mooresville, N.C., a small manufacturer of a patented new technology that prevents "fugitive emissions" of hazardous gases and fluids common to many industries, increased its export sales to more than 50 percent of its business and boosted its work force by 20 percent, using Ex-Im Bank insurance. Slade now sells its products in 41 countries including Hungary, Poland, Brazil, Columbia, Taiwan and South Africa. Ex-Im Bank's short-term, multibuyer insurance covers the risk of nonpayment for commercial and/or political reasons. If the international buyer does not pay, Ex-Im Bank will pay the amount owed in full. Slade was introduced to Ex-Im Bank by the Small Business and Technology Development Center in Raleigh, N.C., which is one of many Ex-Im Bank City-State Partners around the country that help local companies apply for Ex-Im Bank financing services. Ex-Im Bank works with lenders nationwide, and also has delegated authority lenders across the country. Contact an Ex-Im Bank regional office for more information.