Trade mission: USA sports & outdoor brand expansion 2025

Why attend

The U.S. sports and outdoor market is thriving—driven by demand for high-performance, sustainable, and design-forward products. Norwegian brands, with their legacy of innovation, craftsmanship, and environmental leadership, are uniquely positioned to lead.This trade mission offers a powerful springboard into the U.S. market through:

• Direct access to retail decision-makers and investors
• Immersive sessions with innovation labs and e-commerce leaders
• Tailored insights on U.S. market entry, retail strategy, and compliance
• Brand exposure in Manhattan’s fashion and tech epicentre

What you’ll gain

• Insider market intelligence
  Gain first-hand insights from NYCEDC, U.S. retail strategists, and innovation leaders on consumer trends, market dynamics, and entry strategies
  
• Retail and e-commerce readiness
  Learn how to scale your brand in the U.S. through expert-led sessions on digital commerce, AI personalisation, and retail partnerships.
  
• Innovation exposure
  Experience the future of fashion-tech and performance textiles through immersive visits to cutting-edge labs and innovation hubs.
  
• Investor and partner access
  Build valuable connections with U.S. investors, retail buyers, and strategic partners through curated networking events and informal mixers.
  
• Brand positioning and sales strategy
  Refine your U.S. sales pitch, evaluate your business model, and receive tailored feedback on branding and go-to-market approaches.
  
• Peer learning and real-world insights
  Engage with fellow Norwegian brands already operating in the U.S. and learn from their journeys, challenges, and growth strategies.
  
• Stronger transatlantic network
  Expand your professional network across Norwegian and U.S. innovation ecosystems, including clusters, councils, and trade organisations.

Wednesday, 11 June

Welcome dinner

• Keynote by Kristen Edgreen Kaufman, Senior Vice President, U.S. Council for International Business, Forbes contributor and former Deputy Commissioner for International Affairs at the Mayor’s Office of New York City

Thursday, 12 June

Morning

• Expanding Nordic innovation – Market insights with NYCEDC
• Future of fashion – Immersive tech tour at SAP’s S.Fashion Lab

Afternoon

• Scaling e-commerce – AI and personalisation with Amazon

Evening

• Scandinavian sports meets Manhattan – Networking reception and skyline mixer

Friday, 13 June

Morning

• Tech-enabled textiles – Innovation at Newlab
• Breaking into U.S. retail – Proven strategies for scaling

Afternoon

• U.S. market entry under pressure – Navigating tariffs and trade
• Fireside chat – Capital, dual-use innovation and fashion-tech

Evening

• Dinner at KABIN – Informal networking at a Norwegian-inspired venue

Saturday, 14 June
Store visits and experience exchange
Meet Norwegian brands thriving in NYC and learn from their journeys.
(Please find the detailed programme in attachment below)

This programme is ideal for Norwegian companies in the sports and outdoor sectors that are ready to scale internationally. You should apply if you:

• Offer premium products or manufacturing solutions in sports equipment, apparel, or performance fashion
• Have the financial and operational readiness to support U.S. expansion
• Demonstrate global ambition through English-language marketing and a scalable business model
• Value collaboration and can commit at least two team members to full participation

Especially relevant for:
Founders, export managers, and innovation leads seeking U.S. retail partnerships, e-commerce growth, or investment opportunities.

Programme fee: Includes all workshops, materials, and networking events (travel and accommodation not included).
Logistics support: We offer guidance on travel and accommodation in New York City.
Language: All sessions conducted in English to ensure full engagement with U.S. stakeholders.

Apply now to secure your place!

This initiative is part of Innovation Norway’s mandate to lead the national export initiative for Manufacturing and Design (February 2024), supporting the goal of a 50% increase in exports by 2030.

Delivered in collaboration with:

• The Norwegian Industry Association
• The Norwegian Sports Industry Association
• Team Norway