Northern Ireland's Industrial Development Board has initiated a scheme to enhance exports by increasing links between local firms and international companies. It will "encourage companies to consider partnership as a means for growth, overseas market entry and gaining competitive edge", an IDB spokeswoman said. Companies who register will have their details published on the Internet. Twenty will then be selected for help in establishing "strategic alliances" overseas. The IDB said alliances envisaged would include areas such as research and development, joint ventures, technology transfer and manufacturing under license, mergers and acquisitions.