Small State, Big Impact: How Maryland Helps Companies Go Global - Show #149

2025-12-04

In this episode, Wendy sits down with Jessica Reynolds, Senior Director for the Office of International Investment and Trade at the Maryland Department of Commerce, to uncover how Maryland has become a powerhouse for helping companies scale internationally. Jessica breaks down the state’s innovative programs — from the Global Gateway soft-landing initiative to its publicly sponsored Innovation Lab — and shares real stories of startups, exporters, and industry leaders who transformed with the right support. Whether you’re entering the U.S. mark...

In this episode, Wendy sits down with Jessica Reynolds, Senior Director for the Office of International Investment and Trade at the Maryland Department of Commerce, to uncover how Maryland has become a powerhouse for helping companies scale internationally.

Jessica breaks down the state’s innovative programs — from the Global Gateway soft-landing initiative to its publicly sponsored Innovation Lab — and shares real stories of startups, exporters, and industry leaders who transformed with the right support. Whether you’re entering the U.S. market, exploring foreign expansion, or navigating fears around IP, regulations, culture, or investment, this conversation gives you a roadmap for taking the leap with confidence.

You’ll learn:

How Maryland attracts and accelerates global companies through programs like Global Gateway, Soft Landing Exchange, and its state-run Innovation Lab: the first of its kind in the U.S.
Common pitfalls and fears companies face when going international (IP protection, regulations, readiness, investment hesitations) and the real resources available to overcome them.

Where businesses should start when expanding abroad or entering the U.S. market, and why there’s “no wrong door” when tapping into export councils, government agencies, and trade partners

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