SelectUSA Seminar – Porto, Portugal
March 24, 2025 | Morais Leitão Auditorium
SelectUSA 2025: A Seminar of Insights & Opportunities!
What an incredible and dynamic day we had at SelectUSA 2025, an event co-organized by AmCham Portugal and the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Embassy in Portugal!
SelectUSA 2025 was filled with practical and essential insights for Portuguese companies aiming to expand into the U.S. market. The United States represents a strategic market full of opportunities but also significant challenges. Understanding how to navigate this landscape is crucial to avoiding mistakes and maximizing success.
Expanding into the U.S. requires careful planning, in-depth knowledge of market specifics, and a well-defined strategy. With the right tools and proper preparation, Portuguese companies can increase their chances of success and mitigate risks.
With the participation of Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia, and an audience of nearly 30 Portuguese companies eager to expand and invest in the U.S., we explored key market opportunities, challenges, and best strategies for international growth and it was followed by B2B meetings.
Each of these states represents a significant economic force – if considered individually, they would rank among the largest economies in the world. With strong industry ecosystems and diverse opportunities, they play a vital role in attracting and facilitating foreign investment, offering businesses critical market insights, strategic guidance, and the necessary support to successfully establish and expand their operations in the United States.
As the high representative of AmCham in the North, Isabel Furtado delivered the closing remarks and also shared some of her experience in the U.S. market.
Key Takeaways from Our Expert Panels:
Morais Leitão: Expanding to the U.S. requires a well-structured strategy that maximizes market access, trade advantages, and sector-specific opportunities. Portugal, as an innovative and globally connected partner, is well-positioned to strengthen transatlantic ties and capitalize on future-ready investments. With the U.S. offering unmatched scale and potential, businesses that leverage bilateral foundations can navigate complexities effectively and unlock long-term growth opportunities. Check the presentation HERE.
Fox Horan & Camerini: The choice between LLCs and Corporations is critical for businesses expanding to the U.S. LLCs offer greater flexibility, fewer formalities, and multiple tax classification options, while corporations provide easier transferability of ownership and structured share class options – choosing the right structure is fundamental for long-term success.Check the presentation HERE.
Stevens & Lee: Understanding visa options is essential for a smooth transition into the U.S. market. Whether it’s B-1 Business Visitors, L-1 Intracompany Transferees, H-1B for Specialty Occupations, O-1 for Extraordinary Abilities, or E-1/E-2 Treaty Trader/Investor visas, each has distinct requirements that businesses must consider when planning their expansion. Check the presentation HERE.
Drummond Advisors: A successful internationalization process requires a three-phase approach: Planning (define a business plan, register trademarks, handle tax planning, and choose the right business structure); Operations (focus on business development and adapting to the U.S. regulatory landscape); and Scalability (prepare for fundraising and long-term growth in the American market). Check the presentation HERE.
A special thank you to: Our partners at the U.S. Embassy, for co-organizing this event; Morais Leitão, for generously welcoming us in their facilities and for their continuous support – a special thanks to Bernardo Lobo Xavier, Luís Roquete Geraldes, and Rui Oliveira Neves for their valuable economic insights and for moderating both panels; The six U.S. states’ representatives, who shared hands-on knowledge and opportunities for companies looking to enter their markets. Knowing the right people to talk to makes all the difference, and your presence was essential; Paulo Figueiredo, CEO of Starkdata, and Duarte Faria, CEO of Intraplás, who generously shared their experiences and lessons learned from doing business in the U.S.; The experts who provided critical insights on legal, tax, and immigration topics: Dário Nolasco (Fox Horan & Camerini), Manuela M. Morais (Stevens & Lee), and Maikon Luiz (Drummond Advisors).
At AmCham Portugal, we are committed to being the bridge for Portuguese companies looking to thrive in the world’s largest economy.
ABOUT
The American Chamber of Commerce in Portugal in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Portugal are thrilled to announce “Connecting Portuguese Business to the U.S. Market“, a premier event designed to create pathways and help Portuguese companies expand into the U.S. market. This event will take place on March 24, 2025, in Porto, and offers a valuable opportunity for businesses to explore the U.S. market and unlock new growth prospects.
The event will feature expert-led sessions and dynamic networking opportunities, with thought leaders and industry experts sharing invaluable insights into the U.S. business landscape, market trends, and strategies for successful expansion.
We’re excited to announce that representatives from U.S. states will be present, each offering tailored resources and guidance. These state representatives will have dedicated space, where participants can engage in one-on-one conversations and schedule pre-arranged meetings to connect with key stakeholders.
