The doors are open. The ribbon is cut. Amcham’s member companies have a new foothold on American soil. The office, at 65 Broadway, is their go-to hub at the epicenter of the world’s biggest market.

More than 4000 miles apart, Amcham Finland’s dual locations, see the international business hub become even more accessible to companies around the world.

President Sauli Niinistö, who joined business leaders on Monday 22 September to officially open the office, said “this event will remain in history.”

“I have no doubt you will be successful here,” he told the gathering, noting that Finns are successful, in part, because they are devoted to what they do.“That’s a reason for Americans to invest in Finland!”

As well as Finnish companies, the community includes non-resident corporate members without operations in Finland.

These companies access the New North market, an area encompassing 50 million consumers, through the Amcham Finland network.

“Our NYC office will help us work with all our members, in Finland and abroad, more efficiently than ever,” says Jenni Isola, Amcham’s Director of Member Services.

Erika Sauer, PhD, will run operations in the States. Her initial focus is to support Launchpad USA participants that use the program to break into the U.S. market.

“The U.S. economy is growing, meaning growth prospects for Finnish companies are good. My aim is to mobilize more small- and medium-sized enterprises and help them capitalize on the opportunities,” says Erika.

She will also look to capitalize on Finland’s strong reputation in education, ICT and life science sectors, and New York’s private investment climate.

“Innovative companies are one of Finland’s top selling points as we seek to attract new foreign investments.”

Erika will work closely with Director of Transatlantic Services Mike Klyszeiko, who is based in Helsinki.

“We are taking a very practical approach in helping companies set up. As a hub, we can connect them with local partners and give them visibility.”

Mike will test a new model to connect companies which can help each other. “It’s a dynamic membership,” he says.

The new approach will be overseen by the new board, headed by Amcham Finland C.E.O. Kristiina Helenius. She is joined by Jarno Vanto from Borenius and Chris Villasenor from Mercuri Urval, both founding partner companies of Launchpad USA.

“For Amcham Finland members, a new arm in the world’s most robust market will mean increased access, better branding, and more business opportunities,”Jarno says.

For more information contact:

Mike Klyszeiko
mike.klyszeiko@amcham.fi
+358 45 140 4911