The SelectUSA Investment Summit is often called the “World Cup” of U.S. market entry — bringing together top investors, economic developers, and service providers to help businesses expand into the U.S. If you’re attending, you want results — not just business cards. Here’s how to make every conversation count and maximize your ROI at the event.
Strategy: Define Your Course
Like a ship’s rudder, a strong strategy guides your efforts, ensuring you reach your desired destination and outcomes.
1. Set Clear Goals
Months before you step foot in the venue, know exactly what you want:
- What are your top three U.S. expansion priorities?
- Who do you need to meet — by name or role?
- What insights or resources will help you move forward?
A clear game plan keeps you focused and efficient.
2. Create Your Plan
Utilize all resources at your disposal to connect to the people you need:
- How will you connect with key people before SelectUSA?
- Resources to identify and connect to the people you want to meet
- Meet your U.S. Commercial Service delegation leader at your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate for advice.
- Review the exhibitors and speakers on the SelectUSA Investment Summit website and use LinkedIn to reach out.
- Use the SelectUSA Investment Summit app when available—usually 2-4 weeks before the summit.
- Watch the Belly2Belly podcast for brief interviews with various U.S. expansion resources. Resource contact info is in the description.
3. Lock in Key Meetings
Don’t leave networking to chance. The most valuable meetings happen before the event even starts.
- Reach out to key contacts now and schedule appointments.
- Set up pre-event calls to get initial discussions out of the way, making in-person meetings more productive.
- Lay the groundwork for great meetings at the event
4. Nail Your 15-Second Pitch
You’ll meet a lot of people. If you can’t explain your business and goals in 15 seconds or less, you risk losing their attention.
Formula for success:
- What you do
- What you need
- Why they should care
Example: “We are a high-end aerospace and defense composites manufacturer. We want to set up manufacturing in the U.S. in the most customer-dense area. Do you have suggestions regarding who we should meet?”
Pro tip: 15 seconds of speaking is <35 words
5. Bring the Right Materials
Make it easy for people to remember you and follow up.
- A one-page overview of your company, expansion goals, and key needs
- Business cards — yes, they’re still relevant
- A LinkedIn-ready follow-up plan (more on that below)
6. Divide & Conquer
One of the biggest mistakes teams make? Sticking together.
Your team should spread out to cover more ground and maximize high-value connections. Regroup later to compare notes. Team member independent competence communicates volumes about you and your leadership.
7. Stay Engaged, Stay Present
SelectUSA is a fast-paced, high-stakes event. Make the most of it by:
- Minimizing distractions — put your phone away unless you’re adding a contact
- Attending side events — some of the best networking happens outside the main sessions
- Being approachable — a simple smile and open body language go a long way
8. Follow Up Immediately
In the U.S., quick follow-up = serious interest. The best networkers send a personalized message the same day.
Pro Tip: Have pre-drafted follow-ups ready to customize. Example:
“Great meeting you at SelectUSA! I’d love to continue our conversation about [specific topic]. Let’s connect this week — does [insert date] work for a quick call?”
9. Stay Persistent
A single follow-up isn’t enough. If someone doesn’t respond:
- Follow up again after three days
- Try a new angle — offer insights, share a resource, or ask a relevant question
- Connect on LinkedIn and engage with their posts
10. Use Digital Tools to Your Advantage
- CamCard – Card scanning app
- Event App – Available 2-4 weeks before the event
- LinkedIn – Connect and engage in real-time
- CRM Tools – Track contacts, keep follow-ups organized, and nurture relationships
Final Thought: Make Every Interaction Count
SelectUSA isn’t just about showing up — it’s about showing up prepared.
- Set your goals
- Schedule meetings
- Make strong connections
- Follow up with purpose
Have questions or need help with your U.S. expansion? Let’s talk.
Additional Resources
For more on this topic, we suggest reading Making the Room Small: A Strategic Approach to B2B Trade Shows and Events.
About
MEET helps international B2B & B2G companies gain traction and scale in the U.S. through trade shows, events, and strategic connections. Contact Bill Kenney for a no-obligation conversation: bill@meetroi.com or +1 (860) 573-4821.
