The SelectUSA Investment Summit is an unparalleled opportunity for companies looking to expand into the U.S. market. To help businesses make the most of their time at the event, we spoke with Dan Glazer from Wilson Sonsini, a firm that specializes in guiding non-U.S. startups and scaleups through their U.S. expansion journey.
Why SelectUSA is a Must-Attend Event
Dan has attended SelectUSA for years and sees it as an essential gathering for international companies considering U.S. expansion. With thousands of attendees from around the world and representatives from all 50 states, the summit offers a one-stop shop for exploring market entry strategies, incentives, and connections. As Dan put it, “Serendipity abounds when you’ve got thousands of people together at a big conference center.”
One unique feature? The U.S. State Pavilion. “If you want to do a tour of the United States and decide where the best place to expand your business is, you can cover literally the entire U.S. by walking around the conference floor,” Dan noted. Plus, the regional food and drink offerings add a fun touch—think Maine lobster rolls, Texas barbecue, and Kentucky bourbon all in one place!
Key Strategies to Maximize Your Time at SelectUSA
- Plan Anchor Meetings: It’s easy to get lost in such a large event, so Dan recommends scheduling key meetings in advance. This ensures you connect with the right people while leaving room for spontaneous encounters.
- Explore the State Pavilion: Take time to visit state representatives to learn about expansion incentives, workforce opportunities, and regional advantages.
- Follow Up: The real magic happens after the event. If you have a productive meeting, follow up promptly to keep the momentum going.
- Be Concise and Clear: The most impressive founders are those who can articulate their business, value proposition, and needs in a clear and compelling way. “Everyone’s busy. If you can make it very clear what your company brings to the table, it makes it that much easier for others to engage with you and help,” Dan advised.
- Think About Mutual Value: Beyond looking for what you can gain, consider what you can offer. Your connections in your home region may be valuable to others you meet, fostering a more productive and reciprocal relationship.
With SelectUSA just a few months away, now is the time to start preparing. By setting key meetings, refining your pitch, and planning follow-ups, you can turn this event into a powerful launchpad for your U.S. expansion journey.
Are you attending SelectUSA? Let us know how you’re preparing!
Additional Resources
For more on this topic, we suggest reading 10 Keys to Maximizing Your SelectUSA Investment Summit Experience.
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.
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