The SelectUSA Investment Summit is just around the corner, and preparation is key for companies aiming to make the most of this incredible opportunity. Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Frances Simowitz, CEO of Quay Acceleration on the Belly2Belly podcast, about her team’s approach to helping international businesses successfully expand to the U.S.
What is Quay Acceleration?
Frances shared that Quay Acceleration has been guiding startups and scale-ups for nearly eight years. Headquartered in New York City, the organization builds startup accelerators in partnership with foreign governments and institutions, providing international businesses with the tools and connections needed to establish and grow in the U.S. market.
“We focus on market entry strategies, connecting businesses with mentors, investors, potential clients, and industry experts,” Frances explained. “From demo days to cultural insights, we aim to make the U.S. market less daunting for international startups.”
Uniquely, many of their programs, especially those funded by governments, operate on a non-equity model. This allows companies to gain crucial support without sacrificing ownership.
The Value of SelectUSA
Having participated in the SelectUSA Investment Summit for three years, Frances is a firm believer in the event’s value. “SelectUSA brings together all the resources an international business needs under one roof,” she noted. “You have U.S. government representatives, economic development organizations, investors, accelerators, and startups all in one place. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to make connections and gain insights.”
Quay Acceleration also leverages SelectUSA to meet with partners, connect with startups, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
Preparation Tips for Success
To maximize the summit’s potential, Frances emphasized the importance of preparation:
- Research and Outreach: Identify attendees relevant to your business and schedule meetings in advance. Utilize the event app and LinkedIn to connect.
- Understand Cultural Nuances: Learn about U.S. business etiquette, such as punctuality and concise communication.
- Stay Organized: Make the most of networking opportunities, like the speed networking tables, by arriving on time and being ready to pitch your business succinctly.
Ready to Connect?
Frances and her team are eager to meet with startups and delegations ahead of SelectUSA. If you’re looking for expert guidance in entering the U.S. market, Quay Acceleration is here to help.
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.
