Welcome to our fireside chat on navigating international markets

The fireside chat will focus on how startups and SMEs should think about going international.

Joining us for this fireside chat is Ross Hopwood, Board Member of Make Trade – an international platform and non-profit membership organization that enables businesses to expand internationally and make better use of both local and global business networks.

Talk Itinerary

• What inspired the creation of Make Trade and what is its vision?
• Why it’s important to think international as a startup / SME from day one?
• What are some typical challenges businesses face when expanding internationally?
• How can companies identify the right markets for international growth?
• How can businesses adapt their products or services for foreign markets?
• How important are local partnerships when entering new markets?
• What are the key legal considerations for international trade?
• How can startups / SMEs manage currency and exchange rate risks in global trade?
• What financing options are available for companies going international?
• How can businesses build long-term relationships with international clients and partners?
• Is there a simple playbook – a step-by-step process – for going international as a startup / SMEs?
• What trends do you foresee in the future of international trade, especially for startups & SMEs?
• How Sweden on the Go enables business and organizations to free of cost search for and be matched with international consultants and expertise?

About the Speakers

Ross Hopwood is an active and ”hands on” Advisor & Consultant to Managing Boards and Owners with an interest in expanding or developing their international business and exposure. Also working with Governmental departments to grow international trade.

He has 30 years experience in International Trade, Maritime industry, Manufacturing (particularly Building Materials and FMCG), and Market Development. Both with SME and large Multi-national companies. Successfully building business internationally, and driving through change, to meet new targets, profitability and growth in new and existing Markets. Building new Distributor networks and the necessary external & internal support structures. Close interest in Product introduction both in developed and emerging markets.

Specialties: International Market and Business Development, General Management Consulting, Change Management, Retail development, FMCG products, Product Sourcing, Export management, International Business Plans, Trade Facilitation, Import & Export, Branding and Identity, Project Management, Strategy. Shipping.

Also having strong interests in the W2E environmental sector. Working with a number of partners to develop Plastic and Tyre waste processing facilities converting the feedstock to Energy outputs. Part of an experienced globally based team that can supply turnkey solutions. Lets clean up the environment!

About Make Trade

Make Trade is an international platform and non-profit membership organization founded in 2011 to enable business to expand internationally and make better use of both local and global business networks. Originally founded by a core of the Swedish chambers of commerce, Make Trade is today an independent non-for profit. Their international consultancy platform, Sweden on the Go, is a service which enables business and organizations to free of cost search for and be matched with international consultants and expertise on international business and trade.

Check: www.swedenonthego.se . 

🎙️ Moderated by Naimul Abd

Naimul Abd is the CEO of Connect Öst and a serial ecosystem builder in the Nordics.

🌐 About Connect Talks

Connect Talks is a catalyst for ideas, inspiration, and impact. Hosted by Connect Öst, we bring top investors, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to facilitate a dynamic exchange of experiences and perspectives with the Connect universe and the broader startup and tech community worldwide.

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This is a digital event. Zoom link will be sent to those who register for the event.

For questions, speaking opportunities, partnerships, or learning more about Connect Öst, reach out to Naimul Abd.