Accountants from the West Midlands are heading for Chicago in an attempt to find new clients and develop partnerships.

In a trip organised by Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the group will represent the accountancy expertise of the region.

The visit, to be led by the BCI's regional international trade adviser, Steven Cunnane, is supported by UKTI, the Institute of Chartered Accountants and the British American Business Council.

The party leaves on March 9 for three days. The programme includes meetings at the local offices of KPMG and Advantage West Midlands and talks with Chicago-based accountants.

There will also be a briefing and an evening reception at the British Consulate to be attended by key local professionals and BABC members.

Mr Cunnane said: "We have arranged the schedule so that participating firms can have their own meetings with potential business partners and clients.

"The aim of the visit is to research the marketplace in the US, seek new clients and to develop partner relationships.

"We aim to increase export revenue to the UK through the provision of professional and business services. Chicago with its civic links to Birmingham - they are twin cities - and business synergies has been chosen as an ideal location for building these relationships.

"Like Birmingham, Chicago has moved away from heavy industries and is now regarded as a world leader in ICT and financial institutions plus research and development in both commercial and academic institutions."