World Affairs Council of Austin

Kozmetsky Forum on Global Political Risk, Emerging Markets and Finance Featuring Yves Dubus, Belgian Trade and Investment Commissioner
2023-02-24 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | St. Edwards University, Mabee Ballroom, Ragsdale Building, 3001 Congress Ave, Austin, TX, 78704, United States
The World Affairs Council of Austin and the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance at St. Edward’s University host a series of Forums on Global Investment, Finance, Emerging Markets and Geopolitical Risk. Our next Forum will feature Yves Dubus, Belgian Trade and Investment Commissioner.
Mr. Dubus is a Belgian career diplomat since 2008. He was posted in Guangzhou, China, as Trade & Technology Commissioner for 5 years, before being posted in Houston, Texas, in August 2013.
His primary mission is to foster trade and investment relations between the Wallonia and Brussels Regions of Belgium and the Southern States of the United States of America. Through official channels and privileged partnerships, he maintains an extensive network of contacts to facilitate the creation of new companies on both sides of the Atlantic.
Prior to his public career, he held various positions in the private sector working in IT between 1988 and 2008, first, in the development of new businesses linked to the deregulation of the airlines industry in Europe, and second, in the development of new technologies, and new business models, linked to the development of the Internet. In 2000, he was the General Manager of Travelprice, the first ever online travel agency in Belgium, and later served as VP of Professional Services, in Munich, for Siemens Mobile Travel Services. Yves holds a Master’s Degree in Political Sciences from the University of Cape Town, South Africa.
Services provided by the Belgian Trade Commission in Houston include market intelligence and assessments, as well as assistance for the development of business plans for Belgian companies in the USA, and the facilitation of access to government authorities for American companies investing in the Wallonia and Brussels Regions of Belgium.
Off-campus guests can obtain a $5 campus visiting parking permit at: https://stedwards.nupark.com/portal/Account/VisitorLogin
If you should require assistant on obtaining a parking permit, please contact Mr. Don Vansandt [donaldv@stewards.edu]

Denmark Wind & Hydro Energy Business Networking Event
2023-03-07 14:00 - 17:00 | Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, TX, 78704, United States
Denmark has a long-standing tradition within renewable energy, especially the development of wind power have put Denmark at the very front when it comes to green transition in the energy sector. This long-standing tradition has given Danish companies valuable skills to develop cost-effective projects and solutions, invest locally, and share knowledge and experience with other partners within the energy sector internationally.
In 2022, the fraction of wind and solar power in the total electricity consumption hit an all-time high with 53.3%. Danish ambitions to power the future with green energy are high, and so, breaking records are set to be a reoccurring phenomenon to achieve the national target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70% and become a global front-runner in renewable energy sources.
Over the course of an afternoon filled with discussions and presentions, you will get an overview of the latest updates and developments within energy in Austin, and get insights in the Danish wind energy and hydrogen space. Together, we will explore market opportunties and potential partnerships across the Atlantic.

AGENDA
2:15 PM Welcome
Ben Ramirez, Executive Director, Center for Global Trade, World Affairs Council of Austin
2:20 PM Presentation by City of Austin
Zach Baumer, Interim Chief Sustainability Officer, the City of Austin, presents the sustainability office’s work on the climate equity plan, and the shift in conversations in Austin from a more historical lens.
2:40 PM Energy transition in Austin
Austin Energy on their energy transition plans and their experience collaborating with different entities, by Erika Bierschbach, Vice President, Energy Market Operations & Resource Planning, Austin Energy
3:00 PM The Danish Renewable Energy Story
Introduction to Denmark’s experiences with renewable energy, by Troels Ranis, Energy Director of the Confederation of Danish Industry
3:15 PM Networking and company presentations
Short introduction to the Danish companies attending the event followed by networking
4:40PM Closing remarks
Ben Ramirez, Executive Director, Center for Global Trade, World Affairs Council of Austin

Parking is available for $10 at the Palmer Events Center Parking Garage, located at 900 Barton Springs Road. There are two entrances to the garage, one at Riverside Drive and South First Street near the Long Center’s Circular Drive, and one on Barton Springs Road adjacent to the Palmer Events Center main entrance. Click HERE for detailed directions and parking maps.

EU @ SXSW 2023
2023-03-11 16:00 - 2023-03-14 12:00 | MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
The European Union returns to SXSW with a collection of exciting discussions on topics like robotics, crypto, tech innovation, and Web3. This year, we’re co-hosting with some great partners from March 11-14 in locations across downtown Austin.
Please remember to register as a limited number of seats are available at each event.

The current program includes:

Hollywood Vs Real World Robots & the Public Perception of Tech – As robotics rapidly become a part of healthcare and green industries, how can we integrate them into life at work, home, and public spaces? Saturday, March 11, 4 PM CT at Parker Jazz Club
Where Did Tech Innovation Go? – How do we address the growing gap between humanity’s technological capabilities and what is happening on the ground? Sunday, March 12, 2:30 PM CT, Parkside
Regulating Crypto for Responsible Innovation – The EU and the United States are facing a global challenge: How do we regulate cryptocurrency as it becomes mainstream?Monday, March 13, at 10 AM at the Hilton Austin
Pestilence, Famine, War. . . Death? The Future of Trade – European Commission Director General for Trade, Sabine Weyand, joins a panel of experts to discuss the current state of our trade relationships. Monday, March 13, 4 PM CT, Hilton Austin
Music & Web3: Everything You Always Wanted to Know – Learn from the experts in roundtable workshops with discussions on copyright and cross-platform monetization, growing your global audiences, and minting your NFT ideas. Tuesday, March 14, 10 AM CT, Wax Myrtle’s

We hope to see you there!

Next Stop: Hong Kong
2023-03-14 17:00 - 19:00 | Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, TX, 78704, United States
Join us to explore Hong Kong’s business and investment opportunities and network with a high-powered delegation from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office. This FREE reception focuses on the “two-way highway” of rich opportunity for Austin businesses to connect with international delegates and features the latest updates from Hong Kong including initiatives underway to attract enterprises and talent.

Parking is available for $8 at the Palmer Events Center Parking Garage, located at 900 Barton Springs Road. There are two entrances to the garage, one at Riverside Drive and South First Street near the Long Center’s Circular Drive, and one on Barton Springs Road adjacent to the Palmer Events Center main entrance. Click HERE for detailed directions and parking maps.
A primary focus for this event is networking. Bring your business cards!
The dress code for this event is business casual.

Taiwan Startups Pitch Event
2023-03-16 14:00 - 16:00 | Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce, 8001 Centre Park Drive #160, Austin, TX, 78754, United States
The World Affairs Council of Austin in partnership with the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce invites you to attend this corporate pitch event featuring representatives from five Taiwan-based startups and selected winners of the G Camp international innovation and entrepreneurship training program conducted by Taiwan’s Small and Medium Enterprise Administration.
Meet and network with fascinating up-and-coming Taiwanese entrepreneurs and companies. Join us and hear from startups from one of Asia’s innovation hubs!

Company Profiles
Attendees will hear pitches from representatives of these innovative Taiwan-based companies:

ADENOVO – alfian
Your personal asset manager
Intro: aifian is a comprehensive, global asset management platform that gives you complete control over your assets, from acquiring to upgrading to reselling them. You can easily monitor the value of your assets, seamlessly integrate virtual and physical assets, and make informed decisions to maximize their potential.
Target: Looking for local wine/ liquor dealerships and warehouses to store the liquor. Assistance in starting a company branch in the U.S.
Website (Chinese): www.adenovo.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/adenovo-tech/

IOE Intelligent Technology Company
The best solution for the Internet of vehicles, signals, roadside, and cloud.
Intro: We are an adaptive wireless traffic signal and controller solution provider. We send real-time signal with second count to vehicle directly which help driverless car reach level 5 while saving 95% maintenance and construction cost for the government.
Target: Our target customers/partners are those who provide traffic solutions for governments. Especially Econolite Huston
LinkedIn: Michael Chien

ioNetworks
A top innovative imaging AI solution developer; provides packaged software and algorithm IP on AI chip.
Intro: ioNetworks applies deep learning technology in the industry of professional video surveillance, urban traffic analysis, healthcare, and technological law enforcement management, providing a high-end video management platform with AI video analytics, sensor identification solutions and AI algorithm IP embedded in chips. As an official global partner of Qualcomm, Ambarella, MediaTek, and AXIS from 2021, we are keen on developing edge AI algorithms for AIoT devices to fulfill the needs of large-scale AI services and realize smart devices towards smarter cities.
Target: Looking for end-products company cooperation, for example, Dell. Seeking assistance in starting a company branch in the U.S. and recruiting local business developers.
Website: www.ionetworks.co/en/

RelaJet Tech
Established to solve fundamental problem in hearing.
Intro: RelaJet is dedicated to develop hearing assistive devices. Our core technology is the AI Speech Enhancement Engine, which can help hearing aid users to hear much more effectively in any noisy environment. We provide various products to fulfill different needs from mild to severe.
Target: We are looking for OEM, dealers, and brand owners connection opportunities.
Website: www.relajet.com/

WOWWOW
Explore the infinite possibilities of Immersive game design.
Intro: WOWWOW TECHNOLOGY Corp. is a game development company dedicated to making original games by integrating IoT, XR, and Nintendo Switch. Our professional team has game design and cross-field technologies integration capabilities and can provide clients with practical solutions.
Target: We are launching a brand new VR golf game for Switch in April 2023. Therefore, we are looking for communication partners and sales channels to expand in the US market, as well as local companies to collaborate with.
Facebook: WOWWOW

Kozmetsky Forum on the Impact of Artificial Intelligence
2023-04-04 12:00 - 13:00 | ONLINE
The World Affairs Council of Austin and the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance at St. Edward’s University host a series of Forums on Global Investment, Finance, Emerging Markets and Geopolitical Risk. Our next Forum will feature Amir Husain, CEO of Sparkcognition.
Amir Husain is an entrepreneur, inventor, technologist, and author based in Austin. He has been named Austin’s Top Technology Entrepreneur of the Year, listed as an Onalytica Top 100 Artificial Intelligence Influencer, and received the Austin Under 40 Technology and Science Award, among several other accolades recognizing his work in artificial intelligence. Amir serves on the Board of Advisors for The University of Texas at Austin Department of Computer Science and on the NATO Maritime Unmanned Systems Innovation Advisory Board, and is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.
In 2013, Amir incorporated SparkCognition, an artificial intelligence company, where he has served as the Founder and CEO since its inception. SparkCognition has received widespread recognition, including being ninth on the Wall Street Journal’s Top Tech Companies to Watch in 2018, listed on the 2017 CNBC Disruptor 50, being named the fastest-growing company in Central Texas by Austin Business Journal in 2017, and ranking on the CB Insights Al 100 list in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020.
In November 2018, Amir became founding CEO of SkyGrid, a Boeing and SparkCognition joint venture that is building the aerial operating system to power the next century of aviation. In 2020, Amir has been awarded over 30 patents and is the author of the best-selling book “The Sentient Machine: The Coming Age of Artificial Intelligence.”

Conversation with H.E. Radovan Javorčík, the Slovak Republic's Ambassador to the USA
2023-04-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Texas Association of Business, 316 W. 12th Street, Suite 200, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
Join the World Affairs Council of Austin and our partner organizations on Tuesday, April 18 to welcome His Excellency Radovan Javorčík, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Slovak Republic to the United States of America.
Take advantage of this exclusive invitation to meet the Slovak Ambassador to the United States, and learn about business opportunities in Slovakia.

Texas-EU Business Summit Preview: Export Opportunities with Spain and Portugal
2023-05-19 10:00 - 12:00 | TX
Want to learn more about the resources available for underserved community businesses to grow through export sales in Europe? On Friday, May 19th at 10:00 am in Austin, U.S. Commercial Service Specialists from Spain and Portugal will provide country business briefings and explain how all interested Texas businesses can access the EU market. Featured U.S. Embassy Speakers:
Ana Vila, Commercial Advisor U.S. Commercial Service Lisbon, Portugal
Karen Dubois, Commercial Specialist U.S. Commercial Service, Madrid, Spain
The World Affairs Council Austin, University of Texas – Austin’s Center of European Studies, the Diversity Ethnic Chamber Alliance (DECA) in Austin, and Camino Real District Export Council, in collaboration with the Austin U.S. Commercial Service office, is hosting this Texas-European Union Business Summit Preview on Building Bridges to Global Markets Event. Free for companies with a 51% U.S. origin products or services, must register to attend.
Register by clicking here

The Globalization Myth: Why Regions Matter with Shannon O'Neil
2023-06-22 11:00 - 13:00 | ONLINE
The World Affairs Council of Austin in collaboration with the World Affairs Council of Orange County invite you to join this webinar featuring Shannon K. O’Neil, vice president, deputy director of studies, and the Nelson and David Rockefeller senior fellow for Latin America studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. Dr. O’Neil will be explain why regionalization, not globalization, has been the biggest economic trend of the last forty years.
Shannon K. O’Neil is an expert on global trade, supply chains, Mexico, Latin America, and democracy. Dr. O’Neil has lived and worked in Mexico and Argentina. She was a Fulbright scholar and a justice, welfare, and economics fellow at Harvard University, and has taught Latin American politics at Columbia University. Before turning to policy, Dr. O’Neil worked in the private sector as an equity analyst at Indosuez Capital and Credit Lyonnais Securities.
Dr. O’Neil is the author of The Globalization Myth: Why Regions Matter (Yale University Press, October 2022), which chronicles the rise of three main global manufacturing and supply chain hubs and what they mean for U.S. economic competitiveness. She also wrote Two Nations Indivisible: Mexico, the United States, and the Road Ahead (Oxford University Press, 2013), which analyzes the political, economic, and social transformations Mexico has undergone over the last three decades and why they matter for the United States. Dr. O’Neil is a columnist for Bloomberg Opinion and a frequent guest on national broadcast news and radio programs. She has often testified before Congress and regularly speaks at global academic, business, and policy conferences.
Dr. O’Neil is a member of the board of directors of the Tinker Foundation. She holds a PhD in government from Harvard University, an MA in international relations from Yale University, and a BA from Yale University.

Mercado Libre: Grow your E-commerce Sales in Latin America
2023-07-05 13:00 - 14:00 | ONLINE
Join this webinar and grow your e-commerce sales in Latin America. Learn how the U.S. Commercial Service supports U.S. companies as they access LATAM markets. Hear about available resources, including marketing your product on the Mercado Libre e-commerce marketplace.
Agenda:
• Welcome by U.S. Department of Commerce
– How does the U.S. Commercial Service support U.S. companies to access new markets?
– Introduction to Mexico’s e-commerce landscape
• Learn about Mercado Libre’s Global Selling program
– Becoming a registered seller on Mercado Libre’s marketplace
– Resources for sellers
– Q&A
Speaker: Mariano Migues, Cross Border Trade Manager, has been working at Mercado Libre for over 7 years, in various roles. As part of the Global Selling Program, he has led the Account Management & Business Consultants Team with a customer-centric, results-oriented philosophy. More recently, he has been leading the USA Business Development Team, expanding the program’s footprint and geographical reach, while allowing international sellers to grow their business in one of the world’s fastest-growing regions for the e-commerce industry.

Export Growth in Africa
2023-07-11 11:00 - 12:00 | ONLINE
Boost your exports in Africa!
Today the #1 route to growing your leads and sales pipeline in Africa is online! Join our webinar as we partner up with IBT Online to discuss how exporters can (and should!) take advantage of the Online Global Program to grow exports in 2023! Jonathan Szucs, Susanna Hardy and Ghita Benhadda will share their expertise, case studies, client testimonials, and experience in delivering social media success.
Can’t make it? Don’t worry! Register anyway and we’ll send you a recording.
What will you learn?

The Online environment of Africa – Best practice, optimally localized and Africa business development websites.

Nigeria, Kenya and North Africa Search Engine and Social Media marketing ; how to sell and grow your brand online.

Case studies – how companies are using online marketing tools today. Best practices, take-aways and live Q&A

REGISTER HERE TODAY

Bi-Lateral IT Business Round Table with Aguascalientes
2023-08-22 16:00 - 18:00 | Indeed Tower, 200 W. 6th Street, Austin, Texas, 78701, United States
Join us in welcoming the Government of Aguascalientes, Mexico for a round table discussion on up & coming bi-lateral business opportunities.The State of Aguascalientes seeks to create a bridge relationship with the Austin Region and those interested in taking advantage of investment opportunities while doing business with and / or in Aguascalientes.Don’t miss this opportunity to meet Aguascalientes’ Deputy Secretary of Investment and Development, Director of Investment Attraction, and private sector IT & Business Services CEOs.
Agenda
4:00 pm – 4:15 pm Brief Introductions
4:15 pm – 5:30 pm Roundtable Discussion
5:30 pm – 6:00 pm Professional Networking

Japan Business Seminar During Oita Festival
2023-09-10 11:00 - 16:00 | Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Road, Austin, 78754, United States
The World Affairs Council of Austin is once again a partner organization for the annual Oita Japan Festival! You won’t want to miss the “Doing Business in Japan” seminar at 1:00 PM.
Texas exports over $6 billion in goods and services to Japan. Japan is also a top five export market for central Texas companies. Be sure to attend this informative session to learn more from our friends at JETRO-Houston and the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce.
The business-focused session will include an overview of Japan’s industry sectors including a look at the Japanese corporate presence in the U.S., Japanese cultural characteristics, promising sectors for U.S. goods and services, and resources for American companies wishing to establish a corporate entity in Japan.
REGISTER HERE for the festival

Singapore Market Access
2023-09-13 11:30 - 13:30 | Indeed Tower, 200 W. 6th Street, Austin, Texas, 78701, United States
Singapore is an impressive center for business in Asia. The city-state has been consistently acknowledged as a global hub featuring developed infrastructure, political stability, open business policies, a skilled workforce, and respect for intellectual property rights.
A growing number of central Texas companies are looking to Singapore as their gateway to Asia. The featured presentations will focus on Singapore’s market advantages and provide you with practical steps on how to acquire your first customers and grow your revenue in the Southeast Asia region.

Agenda
11:30 Registration + lunch
11:45 Welcome + presentations by:
• Roland Peña, SVP of Global Tech and Innovation, Opportunity Austin/Austin Chamber
• Kristie Lai, Regional Director-Americas (Houston), Economic Development Board of Singapore
• Karen Parker, Senior International Trade Specialist, U.S. Commercial Service (Austin)
• Anthony Howe, Commercial Director, Asia Market Entry
• Q/A + Networking
1:30 Event concludes
Take advantage of this exclusive invitation to have your questions answered and learn more about business opportunities in Singapore.

12th Annual Texas-EU Business Summit
2023-09-26 08:30 - 18:30 | San Jacinto Meeting Rooms, 309 E 21st St, Austin, TX, 78712, United States
In its 12th year, the Texas-EU Business Summit is the premier event for Texas businesses, entrepreneurs and economic development professionals seeking to expand their footprint in Europe.
Texas is already the largest exporting state to the European Union. The Summit builds on that foundation, focusing on promoting the international trade capacity of Texas businesses while creating greater awareness regarding the benefits of exporting.
The Texas-EU Business Summit sessions are led by business leaders, trade and investment officials from EU countries, trade policy experts and political officials.

Event hosts include:
The World Affairs Council of Austin,
Center for European Studies at the University of Texas at Austin,
Austin Community College,
The Consulate General of Ireland in Austin, IDA Ireland,
Pedraza Customhouse Brokers,
Scalo,Inc.,

Polish Investment and Trade Agency (Houston),
Access to Culture,
and
Pendas International

B2B Connect with Technology Decision Makers from Argentina
2023-10-19 16:00 - 18:30 | TX
The World Affairs Council of Austin invites you to attend this exclusive B2B roundtable meeting with technology company decision makers from Argentina.
Opportunity Austin and the Argentina Texas Chamber of Commerce will assist your company’s buyers by selecting suppliers from Argentina. Based on your buyer’s selections, specific 10-min, one-on-one meetings (speed dating) will be arranged. Please register no later than October 10th.

Thursday, October 19th, 2023
4:00 – 6:30 PM
200 W 6th St, Ste. 1750 | Austin, Texas 78701

REGISTER NOW

4:00 – 4:30 PM Austin & Argentina Overviews
4:30 – 4:45 PM Break
4:45 – 5:30 PM Business Round
5:30 – 6:30 PM Networking Reception

When registering with the link above, please indicate which suppliers or partners you’d like to meet and specify who will be representing your company.

Business2Business Opportunity with Thailand
2023-11-13 14:00 - 17:00 | Capital Factory, 701 Brazos Street, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
In collaboration with the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce, and Capital Factory Austin, we invite you to an International Market Series Reception fostering business connections with Thailand.
The event features opportunities to connect with a Thai business delegation led by Lisa A. Buzenas, Consul General, United States Consulate General Chiang Mai. The delegation includes representatives from the Federation of Thai Industries Chiang Mai Chapter, the Chiang Mai Chamber of Commerce, Chiang Mai University Science and Technology Park, and prominent cultural and business leaders representing renewable energy companies, food industries, tech entrepreneurs, and more.

Agenda
2:00 pm: Registration & Networking
2:15 pm: Welcome Remarks & Introductions
2:30 pm: The benefits of doing business in Austin and Central Texas
3:00 pm: Startup Pitches
3:25 pm: GAACC – Serve Local. Think Global.
3:30 pm: B2B Networking
4:00 pm: Open Networking
4:50 pm: Closing Remarks

Republic of Slovenia Business Delegation B2B Meetings and Social Mixer
2024-01-24 15:00 - 18:00 | Texas Association of Business, 316 W. 12th Street, Suite 200, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
EVENT AGENDA

Insightful Presentations | 3:00pm

Gain valuable insights into Slovenia’s thriving business environments: A land of champions in business and beyond! Industry sectors represented include: manufacturing, cleantech, healthcare, and fintech.
Austin Business Ecosystem – with Roland Peña, Senior Vice President, Global Technology & Innovation, Opportunity Austin

B2B Meetings | 4:00pm

Engage with influential players and delegates from – manufacturing, cleantech, healthcare, and fintech sectors – as well as representatives from state institutions and economic diplomacy in Slovenia.
Learn how your business can become a gateway for Slovenian companies interested in expanding into the Texan market.

Social Mixer | 5:15pm

Foster meaningful connections during a social mixer with the representatives from business, state institutions, and economic diplomacy in Slovenia.
Social Hour with complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres
Make sure to register for an opportunity to meet with the members of the Slovenian delegation during one-on-one B2B meetings

Members of the Slovenian Business Delegation:

Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Washington:
Bojan Škoda, Minister Plenipotentiary
Spirit Slovenia:
Rok Capl, Acting Director
Daša Avsec, Regional Secretary
AmCham Slovenia:
Ajša Vodnik, CEO
Vida Dolenc Pogačnik, COO & International Cooperation Director

Visiting Companies Represented:
Instrumentation Technologies | Measuring instruments supplier
Since 1998 the Company has grown from a garage company to a world leader in cutting-edge instrumentation for the accelerator beam diagnostics market, as well as solutions for other technologically demanding fields.
Intectiv | Electronics Manufacturer
“Decades of experience, know-how and development of a technologically advanced production line of highly complex (HDI – High-Density Interconnect) prototype printed circuit boards. In compliance with the highest current environmental and technological standards, our products are becoming the blood vessels of modern technology products. The production range includes single-sided, double-sided, and multi-layer printed circuit boards (up to 24 layers), Flex and Rigid-Flex.”
RePublis | Consulting
Republis Consulting is a Slovenian-based legal and business boutique consulting firm, focusing on T.I.M.E. industries (Telecoms, Internet, Media, Entertainment). RePublis provides legal and business support to foreign investors in media, entertainment, gaming, blockchain, advertising, internet, and telecommunication sectors in Slovenia.
ROBOTINA |Engineering
Robotina’s vision is to be a leading provider of SMART CONNECTED solutions, components and platforms, which will contribute to a new model of connected society through technology and expertise.
Vernar Consulting | Consulting
Since 1995, we have been promoting the growth and development of companies through proven approaches. With reliable analytical tools, we uncover the potential that lies in every company’s employees.
VZMD | Stakeholders’ Association
VZMD is a non-governmental organization that emerged spontaneously as an explicitly civil society movement, especially in the face of an increasingly evident and pronounced need for networking and coordinated action among small shareholders.
Guild Mortgage | Mortgage
Guild Mortgage has become one of the nation’s leading independent ‭mortgage providers by following a ‭simple rule—doing what’s right for our customers. Since 1960, we’ve grown ‭through every economic cycle. ‭Today, no other mortgage lender ‭has our stability, experience, and ‭uncompromising focus on ‭customer service.
Adriatic Finance | Financial Advisory
Caretronic | Healthcare
At Caretronic, we provide the highest quality nurse call systems and e-nursing solutions to healthcare organizations around the world.
D2S energetske in poslovne rešitve | ESG
D2S Energy & Business Solutions LLC creates a network of energy professionals with technical capabilities and expertise that are unsurpassed in the power industry. With the ever-changing environment facing utilities and businesses, strategic planning and resource management are essential for continued success.
Esgnovo | ESG
We’re building relationships and creating big, sustainable energy projects, helping us to maintain a livable climate. Our solar and wind electricity production and storage projects, energy management and trading solutions, and nuclear power plant expertise, as well as the development of new technologies, are excellent opportunities for technology and engineering producers and providers as well as researchers.

EU at SXSW 2024
2024-03-10 10:00 - 2024-03-11 21:00 | Parkside, 301 East 6th Street, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
AGENDA
Sunday, March 10th
10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
More than Food and Drinks, Savoring Stories

Join us for a delightful two-day experience including bites from our enticing food cart.

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Navigating Food Waste and Loss: Insights and Strategies

Whether you’re an individual or a business, get ready for valuable insights that go beyond just talk. Tech companies, universities, NGOs – everyone can be part of the solution.

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
European Innovations in MedTech: Driving Change, Saving Lives

Participate in this engaging discussion about the groundbreaking European technologies that are disrupting healthcare – tools that can help doctors achieve better outcomes for patients and their families.

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Innovation in the Age of Regulation

What is the future of groundbreaking technology in the wake of recent AI regulation?

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Euro Night

Help us kick off two days of enlightening conversation and cultural festivities at the EURO TECH HOUSE, the European Union’s celebration of the transatlantic partnership!

Monday, March 11th
10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
More than Food and Drinks, Savoring Stories

Join us for a delightful two-day experience including bites from our enticing food cart.

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
AI & The Future of Loneliness

Have you ever said “thank you” to Alexa? Or “goodbye” to a customer service chatbot? From self-checkout registers to digital menus and delivery apps, today there are fewer opportunities for a human to ask: “How are you?”
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Tracing Music Royalties and Revenues in Gaming and the Metaverse

In this panel discussion, experts will delve into compelling use cases for the metaverse and the music business, offering their insights on seizing business opportunities in music licensing and shaping industry trends.
7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

EU Music Showcase
Enjoy an incredible night featuring talented artists from across Europe! On the EURO TECH HOUSE stage upstairs, you can hear performances from different corners of the continent, offering a diverse array of talent that will captivate every taste, guaranteeing a fun evening for all.

Austin and Saltillo Sister Cities' 55th Anniversary Celebration Dinner SOLD OUT
2024-05-03 18:00 - 21:00 | Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second Street, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
The World Affairs Council of Austin and the Austin Saltillo Sister Cities Association invite you to participate in this special commemoration of 55 years of our sister city relationship!

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT. DINNER NOW SOLD OUT

Japan Business Seminar During Oita Festival
2024-09-22 11:00 - 16:00 | Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, TX, 78704, United States
The World Affairs Council of Austin is once again a partner organization for the annual Oita Japan Festival! You won’t want to miss the “Doing Business in Japan” seminar.
Texas exports over $6 billion in goods and services to Japan. Japan is also a top five export market for central Texas companies. Be sure to attend this informative session to learn more from our friends at Q-Branch, JETRO-Houston, and the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce.
The business-focused session will include an overview of Japan’s industry sectors including a look at the Japanese corporate presence in the U.S., Japanese cultural characteristics, promising sectors for U.S. goods and services, and resources for American companies wishing to establish a corporate entity in Japan.
REGISTER HERE!

13th Annual Texas-European Union Business Summit
2024-10-03 08:30 - 17:00 | San Jacinto Meeting Rooms, 309 E 21st St, Austin, TX, 78712, United States
In its 13th year, the Texas-EU Business Summit is the premier event for Texas businesses, entrepreneurs and economic development professionals seeking to expand their footprint in Europe.
Texas is already the largest exporting state to the European Union. The Summit builds on that foundation, focusing on promoting the international trade capacity of Texas businesses while creating greater awareness regarding the benefits of exporting.
The Texas-EU Business Summit sessions are led by business leaders, trade and investment officials from EU countries, trade policy experts and political officials.

Event hosts include:
The World Affairs Council of Austin,
Center for European Studies at the University of Texas at Austin,
Austin Community College,
The Consulate General of Ireland in Austin, IDA Ireland,
Access to Culture | Sharon Schweitzer J.D.,
Slovak Pro,
Touch4IT,
HR4U,
Talent’em,
and
Pendas International

Austin A-List Awards 2024
2024-10-23 18:00 - 21:00 | Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, TX, 78704, United States
The World Affairs Council of Austin and our partners at Opportunity Austin and SXSW are putting on the #ATXalist! The Austin A-LIST Awards introduces visionary founders and exciting new companies that create the most important audiences in Texas and beyond. There is an International Startup of the Year Award as well as several other impressive categories.
Nominations are now open through August 26th.

AI (Artificial Intelligence) Standout Innovation Award

Nominate

Recognizes AI innovation accomplishments through potential breakthrough technology, processes, or services.

International Startup of the Year Award

Nominate

Recognizes an international startup company for their innovation and market positioning. The company must have relocated to the Austin region after January 1, 2018.

C-Suite Leader of Year Award

Nominate

Recognizes leadership that empowers teams to be thought partners, cultivates an ecosystem skillset, and supports a broader group of stakeholders.

Venture Capital Firm of the Year Award

Nominate

Recognizes leadership that empowers teams to be thought partners, cultivates an ecosystem skillset, and supports a broader group of stakeholders.

Emerging Startup of the Year Award

Nominate

Recognizes leadership that empowers teams to be thought partners, cultivates an ecosystem skillset, and supports a broader group of stakeholders.

Growth Catalyst Awards

Nominate

Recognizes companies focused on growth, acceleration, and impact in five categories: Bootstrapped, Seed, Series A, Series B, Series C+.

Bootstrapped (Self-funded business)
Seed ($1 million – $4 million)
Series A ($4 million – $15 million)
Series B ($15 million – $40 million)
Series C+ ($40 million – $100+ million)

People’s Choice Award

This category will be judged by public voting. Voting should not include employees of a nominated company and you can only vote once. Which company are you willing to invest in for a financial return?
Voting for this award will open after the nomination deadline on September 5th.

Polish Tech Innovation Networking Night
2025-03-07 18:00 - 21:30 | Thompson Hotel, 506 San Jacinto Boulevard, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
Join the World Affairs Council of Austin’s partner organizations for an exciting evening of innovation, culture, and networking at the Polish Tech Innovation Networking Night during SXSW on March 9th! This exclusive event will showcase Poland’s brightest tech companies, offering a unique opportunity to meet the minds behind the cutting-edge innovations shaping the future of tech.
MORE DETAILS AND REGISTRATION HERE

Slovak House at SXSW
2025-03-09 10:30 - 20:00 | TX
REGISTRATION CLOSED EVENT AT CAPACITY

Bridging Slovakia & Texas for Unstoppable Business Growth
​Texas is where businesses grow fast, and Slovakia is where world-class ideas and innovations come from. Join us at Slovak House 2025, a high-energy, one-day event designed for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals eager to expand in Texas – the land of limitless opportunities!
​Join World Affairs Council of Austin’s President, Mortada Mohamed at this all day networking event about real opportunities. You’ll hear from Slovak companies breaking into the U.S. market, meet people who know how to succeed in Texas, and get straight talk from those who’ve done it.
​If you want to learn how to expand, invest, or partner in one of the most business-friendly states in the U.S., this is the room you need to be in.
​REGISTRATION CLOSED EVENT AT CAPACITY
​PROGRAM – SLOVAK HOUSE
​📌 10:30 AM – Welcome to Slovak House
Radovan Javorcik – Ambassador of Slovakia to the United States
Andrea Hrusovska – Chief People Officer at Slovak PRO
📌 10:50 AM – Business Friendly Slovakia
Vladimir Lackovic – Special Representative to the U.S. for Trade and Investment, SARIO – Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency
Nikola Kmecova – FDI Consultant, SARIO – Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency
​📌 11:20 AM – TEDx Talk: Slovak Success in the U.S.
Vlado Hruda – Product Manager, Miro
​📌 11:40 AM – Quick Pitch Session
15 Slovak companies, 60 seconds each
​📌 12:00 PM – PANEL 1: Practical Foundations for Success in Texas
Panel of lawyers: Dave Quinn, John Sigety & Martin Valko
Moderator: Erin McKelvey – President, EACC of Texas
📌 13:00 PM – Networking Lunch
​📌 2:00 PM – PANEL 2: The Austin Ecosystem – Your Growth Partner
Marcos Cervantes – CEO of Q-Branch
Mortada Mohamed – President, World Affairs Council of Austin
Scott Smith – Director of Economic Development, City of Cedar Park
David Steele – Director, Plug and Play Sportstech
​📌 3:00 PM – KEYNOTE ADDRESS: Texas – The Land of Opportunity
Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson
​📌 3:20 PM – Coffee & Networking
​📌 3:40 PM – Quick Pitch Session (Round 2)
15 Slovak companies, 60 seconds each
​📌 4:00 PM – Achieving Success in America
Grant Mitterlehner – CEO of MittGroup
​📌 4:30 PM – TEDx Talk: Slovak AI Innovation Changing America
Niko Dubovsky – Co-founder of SuperCity AI
​📌 4:40 PM – Closing Remarks
​📌 5:00 – 8:00 PM – Networking with Slovak food and drinks
Organizers & Partners:
​SARIO – Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency | Slovak PRO | Embassy of Slovakia in Washington D.C. | Consulate of Slovakia in Texas | European Union | Programme Slovakia | HR4U
​

CZECH Night at SXSW
2025-03-10 16:30 - 23:00 | TX
Join the World Affairs Council of Austin’s partners and experience the best of Czech innovation, entrepreneurship, and culture at the inaugural Czech House @ SXSW 2025!
​Kick off the evening with a flagship Pitch Event, where visionary Czech startups take the stage to showcase groundbreaking ideas. Then, connect with industry leaders, investors, and creatives at a networking reception, featuring a welcome speech by the Czech Minister of Industry and Trade, Lukáš Vlček. As the night unfolds, immerse yourself in exclusive live performances, bringing the energy of the Czech music scene to Austin.
SEE DETAILS AND REGISTER FOR CZECH NIGHT HERE
SEE CZECH SCHEDULE OF SXSW EVENTS HERE

Asia x Austin International Market Summit
2025-03-11 12:00 - 21:00 | Austin Central Library, 710 West Cesar Chavez Street, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
The Asia x Austin International Market Summit returns for 2025!
In “Asian Market Briefings” we’ll hear from international trade experts and country representatives about business and investment opportunities in some of Asia’s most dynamic and robust markets. Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia and India.
Event Launch Agenda:
12:00 | Registration
12:30 | GAACC Welcome & Summit Sponsors
12:45 | Regional Economic Ecosystem
12:50 | Why Austin
1:00 | Central Texas Cities
1:30 | Asian Markets Briefings
2:30 | Closing Remarks

DETAILS for Full Day AND RSVP HERE

Quebec Semiconductor Delegation Reception
2025-04-10 08:00 - 09:30 | St. Edwards University, 3001 S Congress Avenue, Austin, TX, 78704, United States
You’re invited to a networking breakfast welcoming a trade delegation of Québec semiconductor companies
The Québec Government, the World Affairs Council of Austin, the Global Affairs Society, and St. Edwards University would like to invite you to connect with companies in the semiconductor sector. This event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build professional relationships, and strengthen the connections that drive the Austin and Québec semiconductor industries forward.
We hope you will join us for a dynamic discussion as we continue collaborating to shape the future of global trade in this thriving industry.

Please RSVP to: Eglantine Pauvarel Moss eglantine.pauvarelmoss@mri.gouv.qc.ca

Ranch to Runway
2025-05-29 17:30 - 19:00 | TX
Join the World Affairs Council of Austin and our guest speaker Nina Means of ACC Fashion Incubator for “Ranch to Runway”—an elegant evening exploring fashion, trends, and global influence. Experience lively conversation, style inspiration, and forward-thinking insights. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate the future of fashion.
This event is invitation-only. Please notify us of your interest to receive an invitation by completing the form linked below. Priority registration is available for World Affairs Council of Austin members. Bring your invitation to the event. Invitations are non-transferable.
REQUEST YOUR INVITATION HERE

Nina Means is the inaugural Director of the Austin Community College Fashion Incubator, where she leads the development of industry-driven programs that empower students and emerging fashion businesses. Her work focuses on building strategic partnerships, advancing digital transformation, and bridging the gap between creativity and commerce in Austin’s growing fashion sector.
Nina first connected with Mortada Mohamed and the World Affairs Council of Austin through the ATX+EGYPT Global Fashion Technology Accelerator—an initiative funded by the U.S. State Department and the City of Austin Economic Development Department. This program exemplifies her commitment to fostering global exchange and innovation in fashion.
With a background that spans public health and international fashion design, Nina has designed for brands such as Rebecca Taylor, American Eagle Outfitters, and H by Halston for QVC. She launched her own label in 2016 and has been recognized as a leader shaping Austin’s creative future in Austin Business Journal. Her accolades include features in WWD, a cover story for Austin Woman Magazine, being named one of 12 Women Shaping the Future of Austin by Austin Monthly, and appearing in a documentary on building creative teams alongside leaders from Pixar and Google.
Currently pursuing her doctorate at the University of Texas at Austin, Nina continues to champion equitable education and workforce development. She is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of fashion innovators and creating meaningful opportunities for Austin’s creative community.

This event is invitation-only. Please notify us of your interest to receive an invitation by completing the form linked below. Priority registration is available for World Affairs Council of Austin members. Bring your invitation to the event. Invitations are non-transferable.
REQUEST YOUR INVITATION HERE

Global Trade Recalibrated: Understanding Today's Tariff Approach
2025-06-11 12:00 - 13:00 | ONLINE
The World Affairs Council of Austin and our partners at the Texas Camino Real District Export Council invite you to attend a webinar featuring Ricardo Carnevali, Director of Capital Markets – Foreign Exchange at Comerica Bank. Global Trade Recalibrated: Understanding Today’s Tariff Approach will provide a deeper look at the financial logic behind current U.S. trade policy and explore whether these strategies are moving the U.S. closer to achieving balanced trade.
REGISTER HERE
Ricardo Carnevali is the Capital Markets – Foreign Exchange Director at Comerica Bank in Dallas, Texas. He brings over 20 years of experience in global markets, derivatives, and risk management. His leadership spans prominent institutions, including Wells Fargo, Citibank, Toyota Financial Services, and Ecobat, where he specialized in advising multinational clients on navigating currency markets, liquidity challenges, and risk mitigation across North American and Latin American markets. Ricardo holds an MBA from Rice University, a Master’s in Finance from the University of London, and a BSc in Business Administration from the Universidad Metropolitana in Caracas, Venezuela.
