Austin, TX – March 5, 2025 – Today, Opportunity Austin, in partnership with Brown Advisory, announced the inauguration of the Global Austin Launch Pad, designed to help international firms expand operations into the U.S. market. The program, which is the first of its kind in the Austin region, provides strategic guidance, premier office space and a robust support network to accelerate business growth. The program recently welcomed its first company, ITFS Solutions.
“Opportunity Austin is committed to strengthening global business relationships, driving economic momentum and positioning the Austin region as a competitive hub for international investment and innovation,” Ed Latson, chief executive officer of Opportunity Austin, said. “As part of our 5.0 strategy, the Global Austin Launch Pad exemplifies this commitment to provide international companies with the resources and connections needed to accelerate their U.S. growth. Through our partnership with Brown Advisory, we’re not only strengthening the region’s global business connections but also reinforcing our position as a leader in innovation and economic opportunity.”
Participating companies will receive complimentary access to premier Class A office space for a negotiated term limit, exclusive networking opportunities with key public and private sector leaders and strategic business support. Additionally, a dedication liaison team will provide access to local, regional and state resources, including customized investment business plans, market analysis and impact studies.
The Global Austin Launch Pad is part of Opportunity Austin’s Soft Landing Program which provides tailored support to international and domestic companies, ensuring they have the resources, connections and guidance needed to thrive in the U.S. market.
“Brown Advisory is honored to support the Global Austin Launch Pad,” Kellie Zesch Weir, portfolio manager and head of the Austin office at Brown Advisory, said. “This partnership underscores our dedication to strengthening global business relationships and contributing to the economic growth of the Austin region. We are excited to be part of this accelerating trend and look forward to the continued success it will bring.”
Eligible companies must meet the following criteria:
- Obtain commercial general liability insurance for office space utilization
- Demonstrate sufficient resources to cover expenses during the program period
- Have at least one staff member physically present in the Austin Region
- Meet U.S. immigration services requirements for business travel
- Operate in disruptive technology and/or multi-use solution industries
- Possess capital investment to launch and scale the business in the Austin Region
Strategic partners supporting the Global Austin Launch Pad include Texas Global and the Austin Technology Incubator at The University of Texas at Austin, Texas International Business Accelerator and The University of Texas at San Antonio SBDC International Trade Center, Texas State University Small Business Development Center, U.S. Commercial Service and U.S. Department of Commerce-International Trade Administration.
Applications are now open. For qualifying firms, apply through OA’s Soft Landing program to access Opportunity Austin’s Global Launch Pad offerings using this link.
About Opportunity Austin:
Opportunity Austin is the regional economic partnership fostering innovation, investment, workforce development, and livability across the Austin region. Harnessing the region’s unrivaled economic momentum, its mission is to be a force multiplier for businesses that share the drive for enduring prosperity. Ultimately, the organization improves the strength, power, and performance of our region and those who do business within it.
About Brown Advisory:
Brown Advisory is an independent investment management and strategic advisory firm committed to providing its clients with a combination of first-class investment performance, strategic advice and the highest level of service. The firm has offices in Austin, Baltimore, Boston, the Carolinas, Delaware, Frankfurt, London, Nashville, New York, San Francisco, Singapore, Southern California, Tokyo, Virginia and Washington, D.C.
The firm serves individuals, families, endowments, foundations and other institutions, and is responsible for over $170.1 billion in client assets as of January 31, 2025. The firm’s colleague equity ownership, experienced investment professionals and client-first culture help to make a material difference in the lives of its clients. To learn more, visit www.brownadvisory.com.
