Ed. note: This post is part of a series highlighting the upcoming Hannover Messe Trade Show April 25—29, 2016. This series will highlight U.S. exhibitors that will participate in the world’s leading trade fair for industrial technology.

Guest blog post by Susan Allen, President & CEO of DataBanque

This is your first time at Hannover Messe. What factors influenced your decision to participate this year?

The USA as Partner Country definitely influenced our decision to participate this year. There will be hundreds of potential prospects for our services- all in one place.

Why is the Investment pavilion a natural home for you?

We provide Market Entry Support for international companies interested in gaining a foothold in the U.S. market. Visitors to the Investment Pavilion are exploring their options for investing in the U.S. and are, therefore, the perfect audience for our message. Our presence in the Pavilion is also a benefit for the EDO’s who are there to attract investment to their regions.  The services we provide are what their prospective investor companies will need.  We can help regardless of where a company chooses to make their entry into the U.S.

What do you hope to accomplish at Hannover Messe?

We would like to learn more about the challenges and needs of the U.S.-bound investor companies. We would also like to gain exposure for our services among the FDI community, both companies and governmental organizations. Connecting with prospects to follow up with after the show ends will be another major componet.

When and how did your company begin exporting?

We are not an exporter.  We provide administrative, sales and marketing support to international companies who export all over the world. Most of our clients are headquartered in the U.S., although we have one client that is based out of Belgium.

What advice do you have for other American companies looking to start exporting?

It is important to familiarize oneself with the challenges and opportunities in your client or prospect’s home country.