International Exchanges
Global Ties San Francisco specializes in the development and local implementation of international exchange programs that showcase the wealth of knowledge, cultural diversity, and innovative spirit of the San Francisco Bay Area to a global audience. We connect international visitors with local businesses, organizations, government officials, schools, and community members to foster a world of cross-cultural understanding and sustained peace.
People-to-people diplomacy for a peaceful, more prosperous world.
As international exchange and public diplomacy professionals, we take care to fully immerse visitors in the local community and culture for an authentic and transformational experience. Our active participation in the planning process, strategic connections, and extensive geographic knowledge ensure high-quality exchanges for all stakeholders. This is demonstrated in the longstanding success of our work with the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program, and other customized exchanges.
Top Programming Areas
- Cybersecurity & Information Technology
- Energy Security & Policy
- Entrepreneurship & Innovation
- U.S. Foreign Policy & Trade Relations
- Journalism, Media & Combating Disinformation
- Women’s Empowerment & Leadership
- Human & Civil Rights
- Environmental Protection
- Combating Trafficking in Persons
Informative and Uniquely Designed Programs
International Visitor Leadership Program
A community-based member of Global Ties U.S., Global Ties San Francisco partners with the U.S. Department of State to implement its premier professional exchange program, the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), in the San Francisco Bay Area. We welcome over 700 international visitors annually to the Bay Area, bringing nearly $1.1 million to the local economy from $168,000 in federal funding. In the course of this work, we engage more than 600 local volunteers who devote over 4,000 hours in volunteer service to support our in-person and virtual programs each year.
A high-impact public diplomacy tool, the IVLP was established in 1940 on the conviction that people-to-people diplomacy, rather than traditional state-to-state diplomacy, is key to strong global alliances, active cooperation, and in turn, lasting peace. The program brings current and emerging foreign leaders in a variety of fields to the United States for an exploration of critical global topics, providing a dynamic environment for peer-to-peer exchange and establishment of long-term, influential relationships across the globe. Throughout the 80-year history of the IVLP, more than 500 participants have become heads of state or government, while thousands of others have become exemplary leaders in their industries.
During a month-long exchange, participants visit on average four cities across the country to engage with their professional counterparts and experience the diversity and hospitality of the United States firsthand. Each IVLP project reflects participants’ professional interests and supports the foreign policy goals of the United States.
Follow our IVLP adventures on our blog or @GlobalTiesSF on social media, and the nationwide IVLP experience by following #IVLP hashtag. Discover the many ways to get involved. Contact us to get started.
The International Leadership Visitor Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by
the U.S. Government and supported in its implementation by Global Ties U.S.
Professional Fellowships
Global Ties San Francisco coordinates professional fellowships for international visitors looking to expand their leadership skills and business acumen. Through various exchanges, we connect young professionals from around the world to organizations and businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area interested in supporting professional development and establishing long-term international relationships.
J-1 Internships and Training Programs
Global Ties San Francisco conducts site visits to prospective host companies that have applied for an individual from outside the United States to train with their company using a J-1 visa. We assess business and practical training program viability and sustainability, and that basic hosting requirements as defined by the U.S. Department of State are met.
Customized Exchange Programs
Our organization is uniquely qualified to develop and deliver bespoke programming for your organization or agency. We utilize our network’s diversity and vitality to develop professional exchanges and cultural enrichment on a case-by-case basis. Services include airport meet and greets, professional meeting coordination, cultural excursions, dinner hospitality, transportation and hotel bookings, and more. Our staff are also certified Virtual Exchange facilitators. Please contact us to discuss how we can best accommodate your international program needs.
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