Strategic Forum

In partnership with Citi, Fazer, Finnair, Helsingin Kaupunki, PwC, Sullivan & Worcester and Team Kentucky.

The FACC-NY Strategic Forum 2026 brings together leaders from business, technology, public policy, and innovation on both sides of the Atlantic. 

Held at a pivotal moment for global business and geopolitics, this year’s forum explores how Finnish companies are building competitive advantage to succeed in the US market in an increasingly complex global environment.  

We are honored to welcome keynote speaker James A. Winnefeld Jr, former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and one of the United States’ leading voices on strategy, leadership, and global security. 

Confirmed speakers also include Leena-Kaisa Mikkola, Ambassador of Finland to the United States at the Embassy of Finland in Washington; Miia Rantanen, incoming Consul General of Finland in New York; Marja-Leena Rinkineva, Director of Economic Development for the City of Helsinki; Helen Mets, President and CEO of Ahlstrom; Massimo Reynaudo, President and CEO of UPM-Kymmene Corporation; Susan Duinhoven, former President & CEO of Sanoma and Board Member of KONE, Kemira; Ann-Sophie Mahle, Director of International Partnerships at the NYC Economic Development Corporation; Sauli Sinisalo of Bluefors; Dr. Jan Goetz, CEO and Co-Founder of IQM Quantum Computers; Jussi-Pekka Penttinen, CEO, CTO, and Co-Founder of Vexlum; Robert Rowe Global Head of Research and Head of the Global Strategy and Macro Group of Citi; Katja Lindy-Wilkincon, CEO at Picote Solutions; Matti Suokko, VP at Icertis; Tuomas Saikkonen, CEO at Vilpe; Joni Lukkaroinen, Chair of the Board of Directors at Ductor, alongside senior executives, founders, investors, policymakers, and industry leaders joining throughout the day. 

This year’s program features panel discussions exploring leadership, innovation, and the competitive edge from different perspectives: 

• Bridging the Gap: How International CEOs Translate Finnish Innovation into U.S. and Global Market Success 

• Public-Private Partnerships in Action explores how collaboration between government, industry, and innovation ecosystems can accelerate growth, strengthen competitiveness, and turn strategic priorities into measurable results. 

• Landing, Learning, Scaling; Building a U.S. Presence unpacks how Finnish companies enter the U.S. market, adapt to its realities, and scale a lasting presence. 

• Nordic Quantum Edge examines how Nordic companies are shaping the future of quantum technology, advanced computing, and deep tech innovation. 

Expect strategic discussions, forward-looking insights, and networking with leaders shaping the future of Finnish-American business relations. 

Attendance & Membership

FACC-NY members receive priority access to Strategic Forum 2026.

Ticket allocations are included in FACC-NY membership tiers as follows:

• Platinum Members: 3 tickets
• Gold Members: 2 tickets
• Silver & Bronze Members: 1 ticket
• Individual Members: 1 ticket

Companies and individuals interested in attending are encouraged to become FACC-NY members to access the event and participate in our year-round network of executive programs, industry events, and business connections.

Corporate memberships start at $1,000 and Individual memberships start at $250 (Young Professionals at $50). Read more about becoming a member and purchase your membership here: https://facc-ny.com/memberships/.