Scotland–Pittsburgh: Building Bridges in Innovation and Business

This session will examine the emerging opportunities for Scottish companies to expand into the United States by leveraging Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as a strategic entry point. Once the steel capital of America—shaped profoundly by Scottish-born industrialist Andrew Carnegie—Pittsburgh has reinvented itself as a hub for technology, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and innovation.

Drawing on the insights of Christopher Spanbauer, MBA graduate, U.S. Army veteran, and business strategist, participants will gain a practical understanding of how Scottish founders and innovators can benefit from Pittsburgh’s world-class universities, expanding startup ecosystem, and strong historic ties to Scotland. The discussion will also address cultural differences in business practices, investment landscapes, and the advantages of engaging with regional U.S. markets outside the traditional coastal centers.