Foreign Entrepreneurs Find Success in the U.S.
Launching a new business is tough, ask any entrepreneur. Launching a new business in a foreign country requires even more courage and drive. Some say it is much riskier, and is not for the faint of heart.
The UCF Business Incubator – Kissimmee recently hosted a successful meeting with four businesses with Brazilian connections:
- SOLVIS – Consumer Survey Kiosks
- SmartX – Asset Identification Tags with Tracking Technology
- MindConsulting – IT Integration for Corporate ERP Systems
- Prospera USA – Education Travel & Business Document Systems
Not only are these fast moving, forward thinking companies growing their enterprises in Central Florida, they are also helping each other master the United States market.
It has become increasingly challenging over the years to make a good profit in the Brazilian economy; and it is much easier for foreign entities to launch a business in the U.S. from a regulation standpoint. In a nutshell…the U.S. is very enticing to foreign entrepreneurs!
The biggest challenge foreign businesses face when launching in the U.S. is actually getting their first customers then building on the referrals. Meeting with each other to share resources and contacts to help build sales has become an integral part of their business plan. The UCF Business Incubation Program (UCFBIP) helps businesses build contacts, relationships and partnerships that can usher in new customers.
“Office and meeting room space is important, but the coaching and opening of doors makes the biggest impact on the success or failure of their venture,” says Jim Bowie, Site Manger for the UCF Business Incubator – Kissimmee.
Other areas addressed include language and culture barriers. The UCFBIP assists with developing sales and marketing material for the U.S. market.
“An entrepreneur’s life can be lonely,” concludes Bowie. “The support the Incubator fosters – especially when you are from a foreign county – makes all the difference.
