Expanding into the U.S. is both an exciting opportunity and a serious challenge for founders. In a recent Belly2Belly conversation, Bill Kenney sat down with Marisa Mannion from Enterprise Ireland to discuss how companies can prepare, what mistakes to avoid, and where founders should focus their energy to make U.S. expansion a success.
Enterprise Ireland’s Role
Marisa explained how Enterprise Ireland supports Irish businesses as they explore new markets, including the U.S. With deep networks, tailored advice, and funding support, the agency helps founders connect with the right partners and build the right strategies for long-term success.
Top Challenges for Founders
Marisa emphasized that preparation is everything. That means building networks, validating demand, and ensuring that the leadership team has the resilience and confidence to adapt. She encouraged companies to focus not only on landing in the U.S., but also on building a strategy that ensures sustainable growth.
Practical Advice for U.S. Growth
Marisa emphasized that preparation is everything. That means building networks, validating demand, and ensuring that the leadership team has the resilience and confidence to adapt. She encouraged companies to focus not only on landing in the U.S., but also on building a strategy that ensures sustainable growth.
Key Takeaway
As Marisa put it, success in the U.S. requires both ambition and preparation. By leveraging support systems like Enterprise Ireland, founders can avoid costly mistakes and accelerate their path to growth.
Join the Dublin Panel on 25 September
Marisa will also be joining a panel discussion on Wednesday, 25 September in Dublin that will explore strategies for expanding into the U.S. The session will feature experts across law, finance, and business development, sharing practical advice for founders preparing for U.S. growth. It’s a chance to hear real-world experiences, ask questions, and connect with leaders who have supported hundreds of transatlantic expansions. Register here.
Additional Resources
For more on this topic, we suggest reading Building a Sustainable Growth Strategy
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.