Call for tech entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to join Chicago trade mission
A call has gone out for Greater Manchester black, Asian and mixed background tech entrepreneurs to register their interest for a four-day transatlantic trade mission to Chicago.
The Race Ethnicity And Cultural Heritage (REACH) Mission will visit North America in September (26 to 29).
Aimed at B2B tech sector founders in Greater Manchester and London businesses, the trip will help them to forge new connections, and explore expansion and investment opportunities in the US.
Up to 15 places are available on the mission, which has been organised by The Growth Company’s Global Scale-Up programme, together with the London & Partners Mayor’s International Business programme.
Chicago’s central location provides multiple opportunities for global trade.
According to a global report by policy organisation Startup Genome, Chicago is the world’s 19th best start-up region and around a third of their start-ups have either a woman or a person of colour as a founder.
The trip is part-funded and participants will have the cost of lodgings, meals and attendance at all events covered. Businesses need to register their interest online by Friday, July 15.
Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to meet corporations, establish new trade opportunities, join investor roundtables and networking events.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for under-represented tech entrepreneurs from Greater Manchester to make new connections and explore new openings in the US.
“Our city region is the fastest growing digital and tech hub in Europe, but for that growth to benefit everyone we need to be tackling digital inequalities and ensuring that everyone can develop the skills and forge the connections they need to succeed.
“Last year’s virtual REACH trade mission opened so many doors for those who took part, and this visit will offer an unparalleled insight into trade and investment opportunities in the US, giving a real boost to businesses at the cutting edge of our economy.”
