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.


Q1 Update

Q1 Update from the Finnish American Chamber of Commerce in New York!

 

As we look ahead to 2026, the global business environment continues to be shaped by geopolitical uncertainty, evolving trade rules, industrial policy, and rapid technological change. In this context, sustainable growth depends not only on speed, but on resilience, trust, and strategic positioning. 🌍

FACC-NY plays a central role in strengthening transatlantic collaboration by connecting Nordic innovation and expertise with opportunity in the U.S. market. Through curated forums, industry-specific discussions, and high-level networking, we help our members navigate topics ranging from tax, trade, and market entry to technology, defense, sustainability, healthcare, and leadership development. 🤝

The year ahead will feature a full calendar of events, including executive briefings, sector-focused panels, leadership initiatives, and networking opportunities, with several new programs to be announced in the coming months. 📅

To stay informed and receive early invitations, we invite you to sign up for our newsletter 📨


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.


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.


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.


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

Internship Opportunity

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.comApplications are reviewed on a rolling basis.


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.


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.


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.


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