About Us

History

International Trade Mart

The origins of the World Trade Center New Orleans can be traced back to the founding of the International House in 1943, and the International Trade Mart in 1945. Nearly 25-years later in 1968, the two organizations would merge to construct the International Trade Mart at the foot of Canal Street on the Mississippi River.  The formal dedication ceremony took place on April 30, 1968, as part of a larger celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of New Orleans.

The concept and construction of the International Trade Mart sparked the formation of a global league of trade centers, known as the World Trade Center Association. The World Trade Center New Orleans (WTCNO) was the first of what are now more than three hundred World Trade Center organizations in nearly one hundred countries across the globe.

In 2022, the World Trade Center New Orleans entered into an operational partnership with Greater New Orleans, Inc. (GNO, Inc.), the economic development organization for the Greater New Orleans region. This partnership allows for the WTCNO to enhance relevance and impact for members; and preserve and grow the WTCNO legacy. For GNO, Inc., it will grow its international trade capacity; drive additional jobs and wealth; and ensure sustainability of a key institution in the trade ecosystem

Eighty years later, the World Trade Center of New Orleans continues the legacy of the International House and International Trade Mart by supporting, promoting, and attracting international trade and businesses for the benefit of Louisiana.