DACC, GA was truly honored to host this year’s Danish-American Business Summit.  The Southeast hosts most Danish subsidiaries in the US, and we have a strong and well-organized Danish-American community. It was a pleasure to welcome participants from all over the US and Denmark in the capital of the South: Atlanta!

More than 100 participants checked-in at Thalia Community Center from 8:00 – 10:30 Friday morning. From beginning to end the participants took advantage of this unique opportunity to network and gain new knowledge about the transatlantic work environment which they were all a part of. There is no doubt that valuable and important connections were established during the day.

Beginning with a Danish-inspired breakfast sponsored by Proof of the Pudding the participants were ready to listen to speakers who each represented different angels to what it takes to succeed in doing business in the US. Danish Ambassador to the US, Friis Arne Petersen moderated the Summit, and expressed how he experienced the Summit as being an important tool in developing the good relationship between the US and Denmark.

Dr. Donald Ratajczak presented interesting numbers and facts that gave food for thought for the participants. Speakers like Jens Soeby, CEO, Vestas Wind Technology and Charlotte Jorst, owner of Skagen Designs told their stories and left us motivated. Indeed, it was encouraging for Danes who have just arrived to the US  to start business or Danes, who are considering doing business in the US to hear how hard work and enthusiasm pay off. It was highly motivating for everyone to be reminded how Danes have started out with a dream, worked hard, have overcome obstacles, and finally have succeeded.

After a delicious lunch, once again sponsored by Proof of the Pudding the participants were ready for another round of motivational speakers followed by a panel discussion in the end. At the panel discussion it became evident what pitfalls to avoid and what tools are needed for success when we make business in an intercultural setting.

From left: Kris Binder, Robert Steen Kledal, Caroline Taylor, Claire McLeveighn, Charlotte Jorst, Jan Havmoeller, Jens Soeby, Gitte Hagensen, and Ambassador Friis Arne Petersen.

The day ended with dinner at Pittypat’s Porch, a Southern Dining restaurant in downtown Atlanta. Once again, people took the opportunity to network while they enjoyed the tasty food served at the restaurant.

From Left: Gitte Hagensen, Charlotte Kirk-Elkjaer, N/A and Caroline Taylor




From Left: Ambassador, Friis Arne Petersen and N/A