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Newsletter
Finnish American Chamber of Commerce, Florida
Issue 2
Volume 5
February 2014

Greetings!

 

Florida might also have a deal for you? According to an analysis released by deal tracker the Mergermarket Group, Florida was a mergers-and-acquisitions machine in 2013, accounting for 47 percent of all deals announced in the Southeast based on deal value.

 

When entering new market it is important to find reliable partners.  Joining FACC network is a way to be an insider immediately. As you may know we also partner with ABiCC (Bi-Natioanal Chambers in Florida) not to forget our Swedish and Norwegian friends and other partners of which you will find more on this newsletter. 

 

Highlighting this month the World Leaders Conference in March. Use the promo code and get 10% discount and the chamber get 10% support from the organizers and you get world class speakers delivered right here in our backyard! 

 

 

At your service,

 

Lena Hartikainen

FACC-FL President

Join FACC-FL
 

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News from Florida

Lockheed gets $449M in cruise-missile deals

Lockheed Martin Corp's Orlando missiles unit has received two new contracts worth a combined $449 million to produce next-generation stealth cruise missiles for the U.S. Air Force, the company said Thursday. The latest deals for the advanced cruise missile work will sustain at least 135 high-tech defense jobs in Orlando, not including an unspecified number of jobs at vendors and suppliers, officials said. About two dozen people also work on the program at Lockheed's electronics plant in Ocala. It was the first time Lockheed received two contracts simultaneously for production of the Joint Air to Surface Standoff Missile, the company said. Lockheed Martin's missile unit on Sand Lake Road employs more than 4,000 and is the Bethesda, Md.-based company's oldest and largest operation in Florida. Read the complete article here.

 

Rainfall may help Florida's oyster industry to recover

Record rainfall may help the Florida Panhandle's ailing oyster industry recover from several years of wide-reaching droughts. Florida, South Carolina and parts of Georgia saw near-record rainfall in the last six months of 2012 and throughout 2013, Florida State Climatologist David Zierden tells the Tallahassee Democrat. Researchers have blamed the 2012 decline of the oyster population in the Apalachicola Bay on persistent droughts from 2009 through 2012 throughout the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint basin. Oyster harvest landings declined 60 percent over the last year, resulting in a 44 percent drop in revenue. "We've had an unusual amount of rainfall in the drainage basin," Zierden said. "So it certainly will be beneficial to the recovery of the estuaries and the oyster fishery". Read more here.

 

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is facing a new path to growth

If all goes well with the $2.3-billion expansion underway at FLL, the airport will emerge with ample room to handle more passengers and jets while preserving its reputation as affordable and convenient. (It is touting a slogan of "Breeze In. Breeze Out."). FLL, which during the past decade has solidified its position as South Florida's airport of choice for budget-minded travelers, is well along in the construction of a new $791 million, 8,000-foot south runway. Confident of finishing it on time, airport officials have nailed down an opening date of Sept. 18. That will boost the airport's capacity and flexibility by providing a second runway able to handle large commercial jets. And because it's parallel with the north runway, the airport will be able to handle takeoffs and landings simultaneously. Read more about the topic here.

 

Florida business owners are expecting gains in year 2014

There's an abundance of confidence in the local economy among Florida business owners surveyed by BMO Harris Bank. Ninety-six percent of those polled said they expect their own businesses to either grow or stay at the same level in 2014. Ninety-two-percent expect the Florida economy to improve or hold steady this year, and 80 percent expect the U.S. economy to either improve or stay the same this year. "It's a very encouraging sign that Florida business owners are so confident about their company outlooks in 2014," Andrew Cardimen, managing director and head, commercial banking, Florida, for BMO Harris Bank, said in a statement. Poll respondents cited lower taxes (24 percent), weather and climate (20 percent) and a large workforce (8 percent) as the largest advantage for doing business in Florida, compared to elsewhere in the United States. Read more here.


Visit Florida campaign encourages tourists to migrate south

It's practically a pastime for Floridians to brag about the state's sunny weather to friends in colder climates this time of year. So it's no surprise that Florida's newest tourism-marketing campaign takes a similar approach, by making sure folks in cold climates know just how lovely it is in the Sunshine State during the dead of winter. The $5 million campaign, which kicked off this week, will target cities such as Boston, Chicago, New York and Philadelphia. Called "The Warmer Side of Winter," it will run through late March and encourages travelers to migrate south for a few days of warmth and sunshine. In addition to traditional advertising on TV, the campaign will include digital, print and radio ads. It also uses "out-of-home" marketing, such as mannequins riding atop taxicabs. Review the complete article here.

 

Venture capital investment rises greatly in Florida

 Venture capitalists invested $421 million in 37 Florida companies in 2013 -- that is double 2012's total and the best year since 2004, according to data released Friday. South Florida companies attracted the lion's share of that total - $284 million, or more than two-thirds of the total invested in the state. Statewide, software investments clearly led the pack, with $194 million going into that industry, according to the MoneyTree Report by PricewaterhouseCoopers and the National Venture Capital Association. Half of that total went into a fourth-quarter investment in OpenPeak, a Boca Raton mobile enterprise software company. The $93 million investment was led by Castletop Capital and GMG Capital Partners. Miami-based Open English's $65 million raise earlier in the year was the second biggest investment in 2013; while CareCloud's $29.3 million was the third largest. Read more here.

  

South Florida attracts more corporate headquarters

Lured by the sun, low taxes and a diverse workforce, an increasing number of companies are setting up corporate headquarters in South FloridaEighteen corporate headquarters have expanded or moved to Broward and Palm Beach counties since the recession officially ended in 2011. Seven of those offices moved from other states or countries; 11 expanded here. For residents and communities, the trend means hundreds of high-paying jobs, more tax revenue, real estate investment, contributions for charities and events, and an indirect boost to housing and consumer spending. The complete article is available here.

 

The Florida Chamber Foundation: Trade has opportunities

The Florida Chamber Foundation recently released an update to its 2010 Florida Trade and Logistic Study. The report examines whether Florida has made progress in its trade and logistics infrastructure and in preparing to take advantage of opportunities presented by the expansion of Panama Canal. It also looks at how Florida can do more, especially to export more. Tony Carvajal, the foundation�s executive vice president, and Alice Ancona, the Florida Chamber of Commerce�s director of global outreach, talk about Florida�s trade prospects. Read the complete article here.  

 

 

News from Finland

  

Finnish literature is gaining Worldwide popularity

Finnish literature publication rights are being sold globally more and more every year. In 2011, sales of translation rights to foreign countries amounted to EUR 1.26 million, and in 2012 the figure rose to EUR 1.98 million, representing an increase of nearly 60 percent. The figures, taken from publishers and agents in Finland, represent the profits from publication rights sold abroad. Profit from book sales was not included so, in reality, the value of Finland's book exports is even higher than the figures indicate. The international breakthrough of Sofi Oksanen's novel Purge, and its publication in dozens of countries, is the most notable example in recent years. 2014 marks 100 years since the birth ofTove Jansson, and the anniversary has raised interest particularly in the author's adult fiction novels. Like many other Nordic novelists, Finnish crime novelists are also popular in Germany, and a growing phenomenon is the success of Finnish comics in France. Outside of Europe, children's and youth literature are gaining interest in China, India and the Arab countries. Read more here.

 

Finnish research may revolutionise knee surgery

A study by researchers in Finland suggests that one of the most common surgical procedures in the Western world is unnecessary. The team found that keyhole surgeries of the knee are useless for patients whose knee complaints are due to joint abnormalities associated with aging.

The Finnish Degenerative Meniscal Lesion Study (FIDELITY) compared surgical treatment of degenerative tears in the meniscus to placebo surgery. A year after the procedure the study participants, both those in the group who underwent surgery and the ones in the placebo group, had an equally low incidence of symptoms and were satisfied with the overall situation of their knee."These results show that surgery is not an effective form of treatment in such cases", says adjunct professor Teppo J�rvinen from the University of Helsinki and the Helsinki University Central Hospital. Read the whole article here.

 

Finland ranked as the least failed state in 2013

The Fund for Peace (FFP) presents its ninth annual Failed States Index. The FSI focuses on the indicators of risk and is based on thousands of articles and reports that are processed by organization's CAST Software from electronically available sources. The FFP encourages others to utilize the Failed States Index to develop ideas for promoting greater stability worldwide, and hopes the Index will spur conversations, encourage debate, and most of all help guide strategies for sustainable security. Finland was ranked as the least failed state in year 2013, being 178th in the list of failed states. Review the whole list here.

  

Marimekko prints are soon seen in Banana Republic stores

Marimekko and the American clothing retailer Banana Republic have collaborated on a line of clothing that includes close to 25 items and accessories. Among the items that will feature Marimekko's prints are a cotton tunic, a maxi dress and full skirt. The patterns are the creation ofMaija IsolaMaija Louekari and Aino-Maija Metsola. The line will be available at select Banana Republic locations worldwide and online in late May 2014. - Marimekko's unique combination of pattern and colour has always inspired me as a designer, says Melloney Birkett, Banana Republic's Vice President of Women's Design. Read more here.

 

Forbes Finland to be launched on summer

US business magazine Forbes has announced plans to launch Forbes Finland, its latest international edition, describing Finland as a European hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. The launch in partnership with SK Media Group will be held in Helsinki with the first issue to be published at the beginning of summer 2014.  Forbes Finland will have an initial circulation of 50,000. The content will consist of 60 per cent Finnish business news, commentary and features, and 40 per cent editorial from Forbesmagazines from around the world.  The Finnish edition will be published monthly in Finnish. Read the complete article here.

  

Medical bracelet that can save lives

Helsinki-based Innovamo has developed a service that helps convey critical medical information to paramedics and other helpers in an emergency situation. In an emergency situation, the patient is not necessarily able to give his or her medical details. Innovamo's SOS-ICE service provides paramedics access to the patient's medical information, which can be downloaded to a mobile phone simply by touching the bracelet on the patient's wrist with the phone. Thanks to this information, the medical personnel can immediately give the patient the right kind of treatment, which reduces the risk of complications. The service includes the online service, a mobile application and a bracelet. Users can save their medical information, such as possible diseases, medications and drug allergies, into the service. The bracelet makes this information available to healthcare professionals. Read more on topic here.

 

Three Finnish companies on Global 100 list

Three Finnish companies - Neste Oil, Outotec and Kesko - have again ranked in the Global 100 list of the world's most sustainable corporations. Outotec the Finnish minerals and metals processing technology company, ranked the world's third most sustainable company on the list prepared  by Corporate Knights, the Toronto-based media and investment advisory company. Retail specialist Kesko has now now been included in 'The Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World' list every year since it was established in 2005. To read the complete article, click here.

 

 

 


Welcome to Florida

 

 

Finnish-American Chamber of Commerce together with Honorary Consulate of Finland arranges informative event for Florida travelers and new residents. The topics include local habits, culture, and important issues to take into consideration when arriving here from Finland. You are welcome to present general questions in the event and more specific questions to our experts after the event.
THIS EVENT ONLY IN FINNISH. TAPAHTUMA ON SUOMENKIELINEN SuomiViiikkojen yhteydess�.

 
Date: Saturday, February 15th 
Time: 2-3pm
Place: American Finnish Club,
908 Lehto Lane, Lake Worth, FL 33461
Tickets:
The event is FREE and does not require signing in.

 

To read more about the event, click here.

FACC Upcoming events

 2014 

  • February, 12th                   ABiCC Annual International Business Card Exchange
            • Together with ABiCC. Place: Rusty Pelican Restaurant, 3201 Rickenbacker Csw Key Biscayne. Time: 6-8pm. More on the event here.
  • February, 15th                   Welcome to Florida / Tervetuloa Floridaan
            • The event takes place during Finlandia-week, and shall be held in Finnish. Place: American Finnish Club, Lake Worth, FL. Time: 2-3pm. More on the event here.                                   
  • April, 7-8th                        Palm Beach Strategic Forum 
            • Place: Palm Beach County Convention Center, 650 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach. More information about the event, registration  and the keynote speakers here.
  • April, 28th                           ABICC Inauguration of the year
            • Fantastic opportunity to our members to present your goods or services to an international audience in Miami. Please contact us if you want to join us to make this event successful. 
  • May                                           FACC Yearly Planning Session
            • Open to all FACC members. Come join us on planning FACC events and happenings for the coming year. Stay tuned for more information later.
 
World LEADERS Conference
 
 
 
Designed to provide participants with a uniquely personal experience in an intimate setting, the World LEADERS Conference brings together top executives in business and ministry with prominent leadership experts from around the world. The two-day conference provides opportunities for interacting and networking with other business and church leaders, and focuses on the critical issues and trends that are shaping business and the church today.

Gaining an understanding of the philosophy and practice of leadership as a Servant Leader is the WLC's core objective for every participant. Unlike many leadership conferences that are designed either for business leaders or for ministry leaders, the World LEADERS Conference is designed for all leaders who not only want to become more effective leaders, but to become better people.

Scheduled for March 5-6, 2014, the World LEADERS Conference will inspire you to lead in a much different way. The Conference will feature noted speakers Martin Sheen, Marcus Buckingham, Ken Blanchard, Henry Cloud, Jon Gordon, Martin Luther King III, Susan Cain, Erwin McManus, Patrick Lencioni, Craig Groeschel, Katty Kay, Mark Floyd, Charles Duhigg, James Blanchard, Adam Grant and Ray Titus.

Time: March 5-6th, 2014

Place: Palm Beach County Convention Center

 

USE PROMO CODE: AMFINChamber, YOU�LL RECEIVE 10% SAVINGS... PLUS THE ORGANIZERS MATCH IT WITH 10% BACK TO FACC TO REINVEST IN YOUR COMMUNITY!
 
 
 
Partner Trade Events  
 

 

 



February 7-March 14, 2014
Jacksonville, Florida

The International Trade Certificate Program presented by America's SBDC Florida is a unique opportunity for businesses that are successful in the local, regional or national markets to explore taking their products or services global! As a growth oriented business, you should join us to explore international trade opportunities, challenges and resources available to help make your export venture successful. The 2014 International Trade Certificate Program will be held on six (6) consecutive Friday mornings. Register here.

Topics Include:  
  • Identifying markets: sources of information  
  • Finding partners: direct vs. indirect exporting  
  • Legal issues: regulations, contracts  
  • International marketing strategy: pricing, promotion  
  • Logistics: freight forwarders, documentation, port operations  
  • Financing: payment methods, credit risk management  
  • Cross-cultural communications

 


February 19, 2014
West Palm Beach, Florida

Join the International Trade Specialists at the Palm Beach State College SBDC along with Enterprise Florida to explore overseas opportunities for your business!  Resources are available to help identify where your products and services are in demand throughout the world. From cultural differences essential to conducting international business, to trade data and grant opportunities, we'll share valuable information you can't afford to miss! Register here.
  

Gold Coast Venture Capital Association Expo
 
February 26th, 2014
Embassy Suites in Boca Raton

The Gold Coast Venture Capital Association�s (GCVCA) expo features some of Florida�s leading start-ups, and shall be held on Wednesday, February 26th from 5pm to 8 pm, at the Embassy Suites in Boca Raton, just west of 95 on Yamato. The expo presents companies throughout Florida, and promises to be a stimulating, entertaining, and interactive exposition showcasing some of the State�s most dynamic entrepreneurs. If you are intrested in learning more about Florida�s start-up community or about GCVCA, this event is for you. You can register for the expo by clicking here. The standard ticket price for guests that are not GCVCA members is $45.

 

MiaGreen Expo & Conference

 

February 27-28, 2014

Miami Beach, Florida

 

The MiaGreen Expo & Conference is the only event in the United States providing access to the ever-growing, non-stoppable green, renewable and sustainable markets for all the Americas. MiaGreen 2014 combines a major trade show with front edge extensive educational and networking programs serving the Green Building, Solar, Clean Tech and Energy Saving industries. It is geared to providing a strong connection with East USA, Florida, Latin America and Caribbean markets. Register here.


April 7-9, 2014
Tallahassee, Florida

Join the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Florida's international business community to hear from top international trade experts and promote the significant role international business has in Florida's economy and in your business. More about the event here.

 

 
Information Events About
 Leadership Class 2015 
 
FACC highly recommends this year long program for anyone who wants to learn about business opportunities in Palm Beach county, get to know other professionals and make life long friends.  More information about the events at these sessions below.
 

The Leadership Class of 2015 application is now available.
  
Applications will be accepted through  April 15, 2014.
   
Leadership Program Information Session Schedule

   

Wednesday, February 19 

5:30-7:00 pm 
Central PBC Info Session
Hosted by: Jones Foster Johnston & Stubbs
505 S Flagler Dr, West Palm Beach

Friday, February 21

8:00-9:30 am

 

Northern PBC Info Session 
Hosted by: Haile, Shaw & Pfaffenberger PA
at the Palm Beach Gardens Marriott
4000 RCA Blvd, Palm Beach Gardens

Tuesday, February 25

8:00-9:30 am 

Western Communities Info Session
Hosted by: Wellington Medical Regional Center
10101 Forest Hill Blvd, West Palm Beach

Monday, March 3

5:30-7:00 pm 

South PBC Info Session
Hosted by: FAU 
at the Alumni Center, Boca Campus
777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton

    
Please visit LPBC website to register for sessions.
 


 

We hope you find this newsletter useful and we love to get feedback and suggestions how we can make it better. We also have many volunteer opportunities within the chamber so let us know how you want to be involved.

 

Sincerely,

 

Lena Hartikainen
Finnish American Chamber of Commerce