SelectUSA 2024 Preparation with Frances Simowitz, WEVE Acceleration

January 30, 2024

Bill Kenney: Hello everyone, and welcome to the next episode of Belly2Belly. Today, we’re diving into the topic of SelectUSA preparation tips. Joining us is our special guest Frances Simowitz from WEVE Acceleration. Good afternoon, Frances. How are you?

Frances Simowitz: Good afternoon, Bill. I’m doing well, thank you. Excited to discuss our topic today.

About WEVE Acceleration

Bill Kenney: Excellent. We’re thrilled to have you. Our focus today is to provide companies with insights into SelectUSA and help them make connections with key resources like yourself prior to the event. Frances, could you start by giving us an overview of what WEVE Acceleration does and how you assist international companies entering the US market?

Frances Simowitz: Of course. WEVE Acceleration has been operating for nearly eight years, primarily based in New York. We specialize in helping international companies expand into the US market. Our 10-week Soft Landing program provides education, mentorship, and networking opportunities to support companies through their US market entry journey. We focus on facilitating sales and traction in the US market, which we believe is crucial before seeking investment. Our program is open to companies worldwide, and we also collaborate directly with governments to support their companies’ expansion efforts in the US.

Why SelectUSA

Bill Kenney: That’s fascinating. I appreciate your emphasis on sales and traction as foundational elements for US market entry. Now, let’s talk about SelectUSA. Why is it important for WEVE Acceleration to participate in this event?

Frances Simowitz: SelectUSA presents a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with various stakeholders essential for international companies entering the US market. We engage with representatives from foreign governments, US governments, and startup companies, aligning perfectly with our mission to support global expansion into the US. It’s an efficient way for us to meet potential partners, clients, and startups all in one place.

SelectUSA Preparation Tips

Bill Kenney: Absolutely, it sounds like a hub of valuable connections. Now, as we approach SelectUSA, what advice would you offer companies to make the most out of the event? Additionally, for those visiting the US for the first time, any tips for maximizing their overall US visit?

Frances Simowitz: Preparation is key. Companies should conduct thorough research to identify the relevant ecosystems and potential clients in the US market. Utilizing the event’s platform to schedule meetings in advance can significantly enhance the networking experience. For first-time visitors to the US, understanding where their target customers are located can help streamline their visit and make it more productive. Researching and setting up meetings with key stakeholders ahead of time will ensure that their time in the US is well-spent.

Bill Kenney: That’s excellent advice, Frances. Preparation and targeting the right stakeholders are crucial for success. Thank you for sharing your insights today. We’ll be sure to include your contact information in the description below for anyone interested in reaching out to you before SelectUSA.

Frances Simowitz: Thank you, Bill. I’m looking forward to connecting with companies and stakeholders at SelectUSA. See you there!

Bill Kenney: Absolutely. Thanks again, Frances. Take care.

Frances Simowitz: You too, Bill. Goodbye.

SelectUSA Preparation Tips Summary Points:

WEVE Acceleration’s Role: WEVE Acceleration, led by Frances Simowitz, specializes in assisting international companies in expanding into the US market. Through their 10-week Soft Landing program, they provide education, mentorship, and networking opportunities to facilitate sales and traction, which they consider crucial before seeking investment. They work globally and collaborate with governments to support their companies’ expansion efforts in the US.
Significance of SelectUSA: SelectUSA serves as a pivotal event for WEVE Acceleration, providing a platform to connect with various stakeholders essential for international companies entering the US market. This includes representatives from foreign governments, US governments, and startup companies. Participating in SelectUSA enables efficient networking, offering opportunities to meet potential partners, clients, and startups all in one place.
Preparation and Tips for Success: Frances emphasizes the importance of preparation for companies attending SelectUSA. Thorough research to identify relevant ecosystems and potential clients, as well as utilizing the event’s platform to schedule meetings in advance, can significantly enhance the networking experience. For first-time visitors to the US, understanding the location of their target customers and setting up meetings with key stakeholders ahead of time are crucial for maximizing their overall visit’s productivity.

About MEET

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.