Month: February 2026

Icebreaker deal

FACCNY celebrates U.S. – Finnish Icebreaker Deal

 

The Finnish American Chamber of Commerce in New York (FACCNY) celebrates the landmark $6B U.S.–Finland icebreaker deal to build 11 vessels, with the first expected by 2028. This historic agreement strengthens Arctic security and highlights Finland’s world-leading icebreaker expertise and the trade potential between the countries.

by Fadmin

FACC-NY Q1 2026

FACC-NY Q1 2026 – Building Opportunity in a shifting landscape

Dear FACC-NY Members,

As we enter 2026, growth will be shaped less by speed and more by stability, resilience, and strategic positioning amid geopolitical uncertainty, evolving trade rules, industrial policy, and rapid technological change. Forecasts point to moderate growth, but the backdrop remains shaped by geopolitical risk, trade policy uncertainty, and inflationary pressures balanced by a cautious yet resilient U.S. and global economy.

In this context, transatlantic collaboration is essential. Finland’s competitive advantage in the U.S. market lies in trusted, innovation-driven technologies backed by deep engineering expertise, strong R&D, and transparent governance, spanning advanced industrial and digital technologies, AI and connectivity, clean energy and climate solutions, healthcare and life sciences, cybersecurity, defense and dual-use applications, and the bioeconomy.

FACC-NY helps translate these strengths into opportunity by building meaningful connections through curated forums, focused industry events, and engaging networking opportunities while providing practical insight on U.S. market entry and expansion, from the implications of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) of 2025 to tariffs, immigration and visa policy, accounting and tax structures, talent, legal frameworks, compliance, and execution.

In the year ahead, FACC-NY will continue to:

  • Expand sustainability and renewables programming
  • Deepen conversations on U.S. expansion and capital markets
  • Elevate technology, innovation, and dual-use insights
  • Strengthen leadership and talent development initiatives
  • Create even more opportunities for networking and collaboration

Together, we will keep building a strong, global community grounded in innovation and shared ambition.

Key programs & events – Please save these dates

The 2026 calendar features a mix of forums, focused industry events, and networking opportunities, including:

  • Women’s Leadership Circle & Mentoring Program, launching March 9
  • Healthcare & Life Sciences conversations, in late March
  • SME finance, market-entry & procurement programming, in late May
  • Annual Strategic Forum on competitiveness, sustainability & AI-enabled growth, in September 10
  • Ongoing breakfasts, afterwork socials, and webinars on timely economic, geopolitical, and regulatory themes throughout 2026

We’ll also expand select activities beyond New York to strengthen FACC-NY’s reach across the United States.

🥂  Champagne & Cheer –New Year Networking Evening
Thursday, January 29 | 6:00–8:00 PM
FACC-NY Offices, 250 W 55th St, 17th Floor
An evening of cross-Nordic networking as we reconnect and celebrate the possibilities of 2026. Co-hosted with SACC-NY, DACC-NY, NACC-NY, and IACC-NY.
👉 RSVP starting Monday – limited seats available

🧭Navigating the US Tax Landscape
January 28 | 9:00–10:00 AM | Webinar (Zoom)
A practical overview and practical guidance for international companies and startups of U.S. tax considerations and common pitfalls, with timely updates on how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is reshaping the landscape in 2026.
Presented by Ann-Christin Westerlund and Victor Westerlund of Westmusa Inc.
👉 Registration to follow

🎭  Take Me to Broadway – Afterwork Mixer
February 10 | 6:00–9:00 PM
Scandinavia House, Park Avenue, New York
A screening of Take Me to Broadway, the biopic of Ann-Christin Westerlund, followed by conversation and networking.
👉 RSVP via Eventbrite link

💡 Young Professionals after hours networking
February 12| 6:00 PM
Kabin, 300 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013
This launch evening will bring together ambitious young professionals to build meaningful connections, support career growth, and create a long-term pathway into FACC-NY leadership and engagement
👉 RSVP to follow

🌟 Women’s Leadership Circle and Mentoring Program luncheon
March 9| 12:00–2:00 PM
Scandinavia House, Park Avenue, New York
We are honored to welcome Kristiina Helenius, C.E.O. of Miltton USA to present: Leading Across Borders: Lessons in Leadership, Influence, and Growth in a Global Context followed by conversation and networking
👉 RSVP to follow

🧬 Nordic–U.S. Lifescience Acceleration Forum
March 27| 12:00–2:00 PM
Scandinavia House, Park Avenue, New York
Bridging Nordic healthcare innovation and U.S. market opportunity and accelerate Nordic companies entering the U.S. health care market
👉 RSVP to follow

We value your input

FACC-NY is a member-driven organization. We warmly invite you to share ideas for topics, speakers, industries, or formats you would like to see this year. Your feedback helps us shape programming that is relevant, timely, and valuable. We look forward to connecting with you in the months ahead and building 2026 together, thoughtfully, purposefully, and strategically.

Warmest Wishes,
Team FACC-NY

by Fadmin

Navigating the U.S. Tax Landscape

FACC-NY organized a virtual briefing on U.S. market entry and tax considerations for Nordic companies, led by cross-border advisors Ann-Christine Westerlund and Victor Westerlund of Westmusa Inc.

Drawing on decades of advisory experience, the speakers shared practical insights into common market entry barriers, frequent pitfalls, and a structured “dos and don’ts” framework for Nordic companies establishing a presence in the United States. The discussion emphasized real-world scenarios and planning considerations based on client case experience.

The session included a practical overview of how the U.S. tax system operates, with particular attention to state-level economic nexus and related compliance questions. Participants also received an update on recent developments connected to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

The program concluded with an active Q&A discussion, where participants raised detailed and thoughtful questions related to structuring, tax exposure, and cross-border operations.

We thank Ann-Christine Westerlund and Victor Westerlund for sharing their expertise and guiding a focused and practical discussion for our member community.

by Fadmin

Champagne and Cheers - Q1 2026 Kickoff

FACC-NY joined fellow Nordic chambers and business leaders in New York for a cross-Nordic networking evening to kick off the first quarter of 2026. The event gathered approximately 80 attendees, including investors, corporate representatives, chamber supporters, and friends of the Nordic business community.

Hosted in a shared office space used collaboratively by several Nordic chambers of commerce, the evening focused on connection and community building across borders. The program centered around Nordic and business-themed trivia, with each country organizing its own activity segment. Mixed teams competed in a friendly format, with top performers receiving prizes.

The atmosphere was social and energetic, encouraging relaxed conversation and new introductions across the Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Finnish, and Icelandic business circles. Events like this continue to highlight the value of Nordic cooperation in the U.S. market and the role that these gatherings play in strengthening long-term professional relationships.

We thank our partner Nordic chambers and all participants for contributing to a fun and collaborative start to the year.

by Fadmin

Young Professionals After Hours

FACC-NY launched Young Professionals After Hours, marking the introduction of its new Young Professionals membership initiative in New York.

Held at Kabin in SoHo, the evening brought together Finns and friends of Finland aged 21–35 for relaxed conversation, light refreshments, and cross-industry connections. With no formal program, the focus was on building community and welcoming the next generation into the Finnish–U.S. business network.

The event sets the foundation for continued engagement and programming tailored to emerging Finnish–U.S. professionals.

by Fadmin

Advisory Board & Strategic Support

The role of the Finnish-American Chamber of Commerce New York is evolving. In addition to high-quality events and delegations, we are expanding our work to provide more structured, long-term support for companies operating between Finland and the United States.

Through our Advisory Board and strategic support offering, FACC-NY serves as a trusted resource for organizations navigating international expansion and cross-border collaboration. We combine local market knowledge, ecosystem insight, and access to established networks to help companies better understand the U.S. operating environment and make informed next steps.

This fee-based offering is designed to complement Team Finland efforts and internal company capabilities. It provides practical guidance, local perspective, and access to vetted partners and platforms across the U.S. ecosystem, grounded in dialogue, experience, and trusted relationships.

Further details about the Advisory Board and related offerings will be shared in Spring 2026.

If you are exploring the U.S. market and are seeking credible local insight, we invite you to connect with FACC-NY to learn more.

Enquire about Advisory Support

by Fadmin

Internship Opportunity

Summer 2026 cycle is closed, stay tuned for new openings.
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Position Overview

This internship offers hands-on experience at the intersection of Finnish–U.S. business, sustainability, and innovation. The Intern will support daily operations, member engagement, communications, and high-level event coordination while gaining exposure to international business networks and senior decision-makers.

Key Responsibilities
  • Support communications and content across FACC-NY channels
  • Assist with member management, onboarding, and renewals
  • Coordinate logistics and materials for events and meetings
  • Support Board communications and internal follow-up
  • Contribute to collaboration efforts with Team Finland and Nordic partners
What You’ll Gain
  • Exposure to thought-leadership initiatives and executive-level programming
  • Access to business leaders, investors, and policymakers
  • Insight into cross-border collaboration and ecosystem development
Profile
  • Currently enrolled in a university program (Business, Marketing, International Relations, or similar)
  • Organized, proactive, and comfortable working independently
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Fluent in English; Finnish is an asset
  • Available for 5–6 months (start in June, flexible depending on university requirements and J-1 Visa process)
Visa & Compensation

This is an unpaid internship conducted under the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program, in accordance with U.S. Department of State guidelines for training and cultural exchange.

The internship is hosted by FACC-NY, with the American-Scandinavian Foundation serving as the designated J-1 visa sponsor. The selected student will, in cooperation with FACC-NY and the American-Scandinavian Foundation, apply for the J-1 visa and complete all required documentation and procedures related to the visa process.

Scholarship Opportunity & Eligibility

Students from Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, Business College Helsinki, and bachelor’s degree students at Helsinki School of Business (HELBUS) are eligible to apply for a scholarship through their respective institutions from the Commercial Foundation of the Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce. If awarded, the scholarship amounts to €1,500 per month for a maximum duration of six (6) months, totaling up to €9,000.

Please note that the intern is responsible for all personal expenses, including but not limited to travel, housing, insurance, and living expenses.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and motivation letter no later than March 15, 2026, to Joanna.Willott@FACC-NY.com. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

by Fadmin

Nordic Innovation and Sustainability Forum 2023

The 2023 Nordic Innovation & Sustainability Forum convened Nordic and U.S. experts at the House of Sweden in Washington, D.C. for a day of conversation on sustainable architecture, green buildings, and eco-friendly transportation.

The program featured keynote talks from energy and health leaders and two panel discussions with voices from Skanska, Uponor, Hydro, Neste, Volvo Group, and others, alongside U.S. experts on sustainable design and transport.

Attendees had the chance to exchange ideas, explore Nordic solutions, and make connections across sectors focused on sustainability and innovation in cities and infrastructure.

by Fadmin

Nordic Innovation and Sustainability Forum 2024

The 2024 Nordic Innovation and Sustainability Forum brought the Nordic–U.S. business community together at the Embassy of Sweden in Washington, D.C. to discuss maritime sustainability and the future of deep-sea shipping.

Hosted with NorCham Washington and SACC-DC, the forum featured keynote talks from DNV and the U.S. Department of Energy, along with panel discussions including perspectives from ABB, Alfa Laval, Equinor, Volvo Penta, Innovation Norway, and Neste.

The program included contributions from Kati Kaivonen, Samuli Hänninen (ABB), Dr. Johannes Urpelainen, Ulla Lainio, and Jordan Haverly (Neste). We thank all participants and the Embassy of Sweden for hosting a thoughtful and engaging event.

by Fadmin

Executive Summit 2nd of September 2025

The Executive Summit 2025 brought Finnish and U.S. business leaders together in New York for a day of open conversation on the future of transatlantic business.

Hosted in collaboration with the Consulate General of Finland in New York, the Summit explored global market dynamics, geopolitical developments, and the role of innovation and sustainability in long-term growth. The program featured keynote talks, panel discussions, and fireside conversations with speakers including Ambassador Jarmo Sareva, Wilbur Ross, Marco Wirén (Nokia), and senior executives from companies such as Citi, Finnair, SAS, Fiskars, Ahlstrom, Betolar, and Borenius.

Beyond the formal program, the day was shaped by conversations — from morning coffee through the final sessions — as more than 100 participants connected, exchanged perspectives, and built relationships across industries and borders.

by Fadmin

Strategic Forum 14th of November 2025

Strategic Forum 2025 brought the Finnish–U.S. business community together in New York for a full day of conversation around defence, cybersecurity, AI, and quantum technologies — and their growing role in transatlantic cooperation.

The forum featured keynote talks and panel discussions with speakers including Ambassadors Jarmo Sarevaand Tom Shannon, Risto Siilasmaa, Tero Ojanperä, and leaders from organizations such as NASA, Palantir, TactoTek, Emberion, and KuvaSpace. Conversations reflected timely themes shaped by Finland’s NATO membership, Arctic expertise, and leadership in emerging technologies.

The day concluded with FACC-NY’s Little Christmas Party, giving nearly 150 participants the chance to continue conversations in a relaxed, festive setting.

Read the media article

by Fadmin

Gateway to New York

New York and Helsinki form a powerful transatlantic corridor for innovation, investment, talent, and trade between Europe and the United States.

Helsinki serves as a gateway to the Nordic region, while New York remains a leading gateway to the U.S. market. Together, the two hubs foster collaboration across technology, infrastructure, sustainability, and economic growth through strong public-private partnerships and strategic exchange.

by Fadmin

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