Platform94 at Summerfest Tech
Global expansion is no longer a journey companies take alone. The strongest international growth stories are built through collaboration, partnerships, and connected ecosystems.
At Summerfest Tech, Platform94 hosted a fireside chat exploring how ambitious companies can successfully scale internationally, bringing together perspectives from both sides of the Atlantic.
Moderated by Platform94 Centre & Operations Manager Thomas Fisher, the discussion featured two leaders with deep experience in innovation, economic development, and global growth: Shayna Hetzel, Vice President of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), and Jennifer Manchester, Chief Human Resources Officer at Fiserv.
The central message of the session was clear: “No company scales globally alone anymore. Ecosystems are the strategy.”
Finding the right moment to scale internationally
A key discussion point was understanding when a company is ready to move beyond its domestic market and pursue international growth.
Shayna highlighted that successful soft-landing initiatives, such as WEDC’s Accelerate Wisconsin programme delivered in partnership with gener8tor, are designed for companies that have already demonstrated market traction. Typically, these businesses have between $100,000 and $1 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR), an established customer base, and founders ready to take the next step internationally.
The message was clear: timing matters. International expansion works best when businesses have the foundations, ambition, and support network needed to succeed.
Ireland as a strategic gateway for global growth
Global trade is a two-way opportunity, and Jennifer shared the experience of Milwaukee-founded Fortune 500 fintech leader Fiserv in establishing its EMEA headquarters in Ireland.
When selecting international locations, Fiserv prioritises access to talent, market fit, and the ability to build strong local partnerships. Jennifer highlighted the important role played by Irish economic development partners and universities in supporting the company’s expansion and developing future talent pipelines.
The discussion demonstrated how strong ecosystems can help global companies establish roots while contributing to the communities in which they operate.
The advantage of connected regional ecosystems
One of the biggest advantages of regional innovation hubs such as Wisconsin and the West of Ireland is agility.
Shayna explained that smaller, highly connected ecosystems can often help scaling businesses move faster by providing direct access to networks, resources, and decision-makers. With the right regional partners, companies can navigate everything from funding opportunities and incentives to market entry support and operational requirements more efficiently.
For international companies, the ability to access the right support at the right time can make all the difference.
Balancing global consistency with local culture
As companies expand across borders, maintaining a strong culture while respecting local differences becomes increasingly important.
Jennifer shared how Fiserv balances global consistency through core principles such as a client-first mindset and integrity, while also embracing local values, community connections, and employee engagement to build an authentic identity in each market.
The discussion highlighted that successful international companies do not simply enter new markets - they become part of them.
Building pathways for international growth
At Platform94, we are proud to collaborate with Enterprise Ireland and global partners such as WEDC to support ambitious technology companies through our SCALE by Platform94 community.
By providing the physical space, regional networks, and collaborative frameworks needed for growth, Platform94 helps companies access the connections and support required for international expansion.
Strengthening transatlantic connections
A special thank you goes to the Summerfest Tech team, particularly Lena DeLaet, Director of Sales & Summerfest Tech at Milwaukee World Festival, Inc.
The opportunity for Thomas to attend and moderate this year’s Summerfest Tech followed an initial meeting during the Galway delegation’s visit to Chicago and Milwaukee in August 2025 - another example of how strong transatlantic relationships create new opportunities for collaboration.
The path to global scale does not have to be a solo journey. Through connected ecosystems and shared ambition, companies can build the partnerships needed to succeed internationally.