Expanding into the United States is often seen as a milestone for international startups and scaleups. In a recent episode of the Belly2Belly podcast, Bill Kenney sat down with Russ Shaw CBE, founder of Tech London Advocates and Global Tech Advocates, to discuss what it really takes for companies to establish themselves successfully in the U.S.
Russ will also be moderating a panel at the Gateway to Expanding Your Business to the U.S.A. event on 29 September, hosted by Laura Divine. This interactive session will bring together experts who will share critical insights to help founders make informed decisions. Register here.
The Global Tech Advocates Movement
Russ founded Tech London Advocates in 2013 as an open and inclusive community of volunteers championing startups and scaleups. What started in London has grown into 45 groups across six continents, including hubs in the U.S. such as California, Florida, Boston, New York, and soon Detroit, Washington DC, and Phoenix.
The model empowers local leaders while maintaining a global vision. As Russ describes it, the movement thrives on volunteers working together to support entrepreneurs and connect ecosystems worldwide.
Why the U.S. Matters
For many founders, the United States represents the “holy grail” of international expansion. With its diverse startup ecosystems, abundant investment opportunities, and industry-specific hubs, the U.S. offers fertile ground for ambitious companies.
But as Russ points out, success requires preparation:
- Choosing the right state and city – expansion is not a one-size-fits-all decision.
- Navigating tax and immigration regulations – each state has its own rules.
- Recruiting talent strategically – whether bringing teams from abroad or hiring locally.
Doing Your Homework
Russ emphasized that the most successful founders do their homework before they commit. Through the Global Tech Advocates Launchpad, companies can access top tips for expanding into specific U.S. regions, find government agencies to engage with, identify the right events for networking, and connect with local experts.
Having a U.S.-based investor, he added, can be another critical success factor—providing local guidance, opening doors, and helping navigate challenges.
Looking Ahead to September 29
The upcoming panel on 29 September will tackle many of these topics head-on, helping founders assess opportunities and avoid pitfalls when expanding to the U.S. With Russ Shaw moderating, attendees can expect a candid, insightful discussion shaped by experience across global markets.
Register today to secure your spot.
Additional Resources
For more on this topic, we suggest reading Going Small to Grow Big: The Power of Focused Growth Strategies.
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.