We've all watched the American shows, absorbed the movies, and formed our assumptions about how business gets done across the Atlantic. And after 250 years of partnership and economic development between France and the United States, it's easy to feel "we already know the market". But the reality is that processes, expectations, and the way relationships actually translate into deals are very different on the ground.

In this session, Alaina Kennedy of A.Kennedy Consulting walks through a practical roadmap for entering and growing in the United States. From understanding how American business relationships really work, to prospecting, networking, and identifying internal champions, you'll leave with concrete next steps to move your company forward in one of the world's most competitive international markets.

Key takeaways

• How the American business relationship really works, and where stereotypes lead you astray
• Building genuine "champions" inside target organizations to move deals forward
• A clear go-to-market framework for entering the U.S.
• Practical prospecting and networking strategies that fit the American context
• Concrete next steps to take your company from interested to established in the U.S.

About the speaker

Alaina Kennedy is the founder of A.Kennedy Consulting, where she helps international companies navigate the complexities of entering and growing within the American market. With a focus on go-to-market strategy, relationship building, and business development, she guides organizations through the cultural and procedural differences that often separate a promising introduction from a closed deal. A mentor for SPARK-Bordeaux, she brings that same practical perspective to the Bordeaux startup ecosystem. Learn more at alainakennedyconsulting.com.