From December 7-11, 2024, Global Ties San Francisco hosted the Venture Capital Investment and Regulation: Learning from the U.S. Model delegation of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and administered by Meridian International Center.
During their visit to the San Francisco Bay Area, our ten Slovenian leaders from governmental, financial, and legal sectors explored venture capital best practices. Meetings arranged offered impactful insights into the U.S. regulatory landscape, taxation models, and investment strategies, cultivating key opportunities for dialogue.
Our Professional Meetings
Clearstone Venture Partners
Kicking off the delegation’s visit, the first meeting featured Vish Mishra of Clearstone Venture Partners, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology startups. Mishra, a seasoned Silicon Valley venture capitalist and entrepreneur, provided insights into the U.S. venture capital landscape and the essential ecosystem required for its success. He emphasized the importance of mentors, investors, and a positive yet realistic mindset, highlighting the key factors that VCs typically consider when evaluating investment opportunities: team, talent, and track record.
The Deep-Tech Community and VC Nest
A subsequent meeting with the Deep-Tech Community and VC Nest further expounded on the life of startup founders in Silicon Valley and the VC ecosystem. Visitors heard from Arjun Subedi with the Deep-Tech Community, a network of researchers, innovators, venture capitalists, and industry experts focused on advancing Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) deep-tech innovation. Alongside him were Lochan Alagh and Badru Valani, co-founders of VC Nest, a VC firm and coworking space focused on fostering the innovation of scalable businesses by building an ecosystem of fund managers. The speakers addressed their important work and potential strategies for Slovenian VCs.
Consulate General of Denmark, Silicon Valley – Innovation Centre Denmark (ICDK)
Another impactful meeting with the Consulate General of Denmark in Silicon Valley explored examined the history and role of Innovation Centre Denmark (ICDK) — which provides services to educational and research institutions, companies, public stakeholders, and Danish citizens looking to expand innovation through access to Silicon Valley. Consul General Jesper Kamp, Asger Bruhn, and Sweeta Ali highlighted ICDK’s unique model in the United States, addressing topics including tax relief or credits options for investors, and how to kickstart investments and develop a strong track record.
Woodside Capital Partners
Following this, the visitors met with Woodside Capital Partners, a leading corporate finance advisory firm for tech companies in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) and financings in the $30M – $500m segment. Managing Partner Rudy Burger and Executive Director Rajesh Shakkarwar led a conversation on M&A trends, emphasizing key differences between European and American companies. They also highlighted challenges such as aligning with founders’ expectations and understanding the gap between a company’s value and the capital it raises. The group appreciated both the candid market insights and the strategic connections offered for future opportunities.
500 Global
Another noteworthy discussion with 500 Global further revealed aspects of the venture capital landscape in Silicon Valley. Recognized as one of the world’s most active early-stage VC firms, 500 Global specializes in backing fast-growing startups across industries. During the session, the team shared an overview of their in-person accelerator program, which enables companies to gain firsthand exposure to the U.S. market without the need to fully relocate to California.
Kumo.AI
A final exceptional session for the visitors was with Kumo.AI, a technology company whose machine learning (ML) infrastructure simplifies the training and deployment of ML models on complex data. CEO Vanja Josifovski touched on what entrepreneurship looks like in Silicon Valley, reflecting that the region is focused and things move quickly. He also shared that the ability to mobilize talent is the key to success. The group appreciated these perspectives, as well as further dialogue on privacy, AI, copyrights, data storage, and more.
Cultural Experiences in San Francisco
Sightseeing
The visitors had an amazing time exploring San Francisco! They had the opportunity to wander through the towering trees of Muir Woods, experience the eclectic vibe of Haight-Ashbury, admire the Palace of Fine Arts, and experience the vibrant culture and colors of Chinatown.
Exchanges Impact
This global exchange program with Slovenia highlighted the significance of building ongoing relationships between Slovenian and U.S. investors. During the visit, the group explored best practices in venture capital regulation, policies and initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, and the importance of collaboration to drive economic growth. The group’s cultural experiences also gave them the opportunity to see firsthand the innovative and driven environment of San Francisco and Silicon Valley, while deepening their perspectives on the U.S. cultures and society.
Author:Valleigh Brechtel, Spring 2025 Intern Editor: Alannah Crandall
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/VC-Slovenia-Banner.png4241128Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2025-04-23 07:00:222025-04-30 15:06:55Venture Capital Investment and Regulation: An IVLP Project for Slovenia
Meet Valleigh Brechtel, one of our International Programs interns this spring. A Political Science major at Westmont College, Valleigh brings a deep interest in international diplomacy and cross-cultural understanding to her role.
This internship stood out to her for its strong emphasis on international relations and the unique opportunity to engage with people from around the world.
“I’ve always been interested in pursuing a career that contributes to global peace and allows me to learn about different cultures and countries. […] Engaging with people outside the United States highly intrigues me, as it deepens my understanding of global issues and how international engagement can drive peace.”
During her time with Global Ties San Francisco, she is most looking forward to expanding her knowledge of international diplomacy and gaining a deeper understanding of how different international policies function.
Valleigh’s most memorable adventure to date was taking a half gap-year to Central America after graduating high school early, solo backpacking through Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua. The journey challenged and shaped her in many ways — whether surfing big waves, enduring 11-hour bus rides, or staying in 16-bed shared hostels. Moreover, living with local host families gave her meaningful insights into other cultures, an experience that further fueled her passion for advancing international understanding.
In her spare time, Valleigh enjoys art, traveling, surfing, and cooking.
Song Held is a spring 2025 International Programs intern at Global Ties San Francisco and a student at the University of San Francisco, majoring in International Studies. As she refines her academic concentration, she finds particular interest in peace and conflict studies with a regional focus on the Middle East.
“During this internship, I am most looking forward to learning about the processes, management, and impact of such a globally connected organization. I am also excited to be part of a team that connects inspiring figures to address global issues.”
One of the most transformative experiences in Song’s life to date was a three-month exchange program in Berlin, Germany, where she lived with a host family, attended school, and immersed herself in a new culture and language. This study abroad experience sparked her interest in International Studies and ultimately led her to Global Ties San Francisco. She was also drawn to this internship because of her passion for journalism, foreign and legal policy, and women’s empowerment — topics she is eager to explore further through our hands-on experience.
In her spare time, Song loves to cook, write, run, and travel when possible. As part of the Global Ties San Francisco intern team, she looks forward to meeting new people, contributing to the planning of critical exchange programs, and learning more about the world.
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Song-Held-Spotlight-v2_450x450.png450450Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2025-03-26 14:00:002025-03-27 00:58:06Intern Spotlight: Song Held
The United Nations International Day of Forests is recognized on the 21st of March to raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests. The 2025 theme, Forests and Foods, highlights the vital role of forests in food security, nutrition, and livelihoods. Beyond providing sustenance and income, forests support ecosystems, protect water and soil, and offer habitats for biodiversity, among other benefits.
Here in the San Francisco Bay Area, Muir Woods National Monument — proclaimed a National Monument in 1908 to protect and preserve the land — is one of the last remaining forested areas of coast Redwood trees. These giant evergreens can stand up to 79 meters tall and average between 600 and 800 years old, with the oldest being at least 1,200 years old. The park is home to 380 different plants and animals, ranging from bats that find refuge in tree cavities to Coho salmon and steelhead trout that swim in the clear waters of Redwood Creek.
Known for its towering stand of old-growth coast Redwood trees, Muir Woods attracts visitors from all over the world to experience this unique breathtaking ecosystem. Beyond its natural beauty, Muir Woods is also a site of profound historical significance, where nature, diplomacy, and the pursuit of peace intersect.
Did you know San Francisco is the birthplace of the United Nations, and Muir Woods played a symbolic role in its founding?
During a pivotal time in history, as World War II neared its end, world leaders convened in San Francisco for the United Nations Conference on International Organization (UNCIO) from April 25 to June 26, 1945, to draft and sign the UN Charter. Relatively equidistant between Asia, Europe, and Latin America, picturesque San Francisco was well positioned for a global gathering.
As preparations for the San Francisco Conference were underway, it was proposed that the delegates visit the serenity of Muir Woods to reflect in “a ‘temple of peace’ [where] the delegates would gain a perspective and sense of time that could be obtained nowhere in America better than in a forest.” U.S. Secretary of the Interior Harold Ickes described Muir Woods as a natural cathedral, where trees older than the Magna Carta stood as enduring witnesses to history.
When U.S. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt — who had championed the creation of a new international system to maintain peace — passed away two weeks before the conference began, the retreat to Muir Woods took on additional significance.
In tribute to his legacy, over 500 delegates from 46 nations gathered in Muir Woods Cathedral Grove on May 19, 1945, to honor the late president and reaffirm their commitment to building a more peaceful world. This commemoration cemented Muir Woods’ place in global history, making it not only a site of natural wonder but also a symbol of international cooperation, diplomacy, and the enduring pursuit of peace.
Today, as we celebrate the UN International Day of Forests, we are reminded that forests are even more than ecological treasures — they are also places of inspiration and unity, where people from different nations come together, as they did in 1945, to contemplate a shared future.
Through our work with the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and other custom exchanges, Global Ties San Francisco continues this tradition by bringing international visitors to experience the majesty of Muir Woods. In doing so, we reinforce San Francisco’s role as a center for global engagement, fostering the same spirit of global exchange and mutual understanding that underlined the founding of the United Nations nearly 80 years ago.
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Intl-Day-of-Forests-Article-Banner.png4241128Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2025-03-21 22:35:012025-03-27 00:54:14Celebrating Muir Woods on International Day of Forests
From February 13-19, 2025, Global Ties San Francisco hosted the “Tackling Cybercrimes: A Key to Modern Trade” delegation as part of the International Exchange and Leadership Program (IELP), sponsored by the U.S. Embassy Islamabad and administered by Meridian International Center.
Our eight distinguished visitors from Pakistan—including law enforcement officers, an information technology and digital innovation professional from a provincial agricultural department, and online banking experts—engaged with prominent San Francisco and Silicon Valley organizations on cybercrime investigation, cybersecurity risk management, and consumer protection against digital threats.
Key Themes:
The role of public-private partnerships in strengthening cybersecurity;
Best practices for information sharing and data protection;
Advanced tools for combating cryptocrimes; and
Workforce development to prepare the next generation of cyber professionals.
Our San Francisco and Silicon Valley Cyber Sessions
Crystal Intelligence
The delegation’s first meeting was with Crystal Intelligence, a leading blockchain intelligence firm that equips financial institutions, law enforcement, and regulators with real-time blockchain analysis, investigative tools, and compliance solutions. The discussion centered on crypto risk and investigations, inspiring critical dialogue on use cases and their implications. Participants gained valuable insights into emerging cryptocrime trends and explored strategies to enhance monitoring and reporting.
San Francisco Bay Area InfraGard & Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), San Francisco
Our team also facilitated a meeting with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), San Francisco and the San Francisco Bay Area InfraGard, an FBI-affiliated nonprofit dedicated to strengthening bi-directional communications between government and the private sector on critical infrastructure protection. The discussion underscored the essential role of strong public-private partnerships in combating cybercrime.
With three delegates representing the Federal Investigations Agency (FIA)—the FBI-equivalent in Pakistan—this session carried particular significance. Engaging directly with their professional counterparts, the visitors exchanged strategies for cybersecurity risk management and threat assessment, drawing comparisons between the U.S. and Pakistan’s approaches and capacities. The discussion also emphasized workforce readiness initiatives, with both local and international participants sharing methods to cultivate the next generation of cyber professionals within their respective national contexts.
Institute for Security and Technology (IST)
A final meeting with the Institute for Security and Technology (IST) provided a deep dive into leveraging public-private partnerships to combat ransomware and other cyber threats. IST employs a multifaceted approach to addressing global security concerns, including not only cybersecurity risks and information warfare, but also the broader implications of technology on democracy and human security.
Through this discussion, the delegation gained a comprehensive understanding of cross-sector collaboration in tackling cyber threats. IST’s emphasis on bridging the gap between government and industry helped the participants conceptualize potential avenues for stakeholder engagement and policy coordination to address evolving security challenges.
Collectively, these meetings underscored the power of cross-cultural dialogue for greater cumulative impact. The direct exchanges between experts from the U.S. and Pakistan reinforced a global commitment to combating cybercrime, securing critical infrastructure, and bolstering the cyber workforce of the future.
Cultural Experiences in San Francisco
Home Hospitality
In addition to their professional meetings, the visitors deepened their understanding of U.S. culture and society through meaningful community-level experiences, including enjoying a meal with local San Franciscans as part of Global Ties San Francisco’s Home Hospitality Program.
Alcatraz Island
The group also explored Alcatraz Island through a private behind-the-scenes tour, offering a unique perspective on the island’s layered history and significance to varied communities in the San Francisco Bay Area. We extend our sincere gratitude to Ranger John Cantwell (Ret.) for leading this outstanding tour, as well as to our longstanding cultural hosts, Linda Cahill and Jim Horio, for helping arrange it.
In the cellhouse with Ranger John Cantwell (Ret.).
Restored graffiti and historic political statement from the 1969-1971 Indian Occupation of Alcatraz – learn more here and here.
In the lighthouse with Ranger Matt Connelly.
Visiting historic sites like Alcatraz provided our distinguished foreign visitors with a deeper connection to and understanding of American history and society. One visitor reflected on how the experience offered valuable insight into her work in law enforcement—seeing the history of this high-security prison and the conditions during its operation underscored the evolution of correctional practices, philosophies, and the broader U.S. justice system over time.
Sightseeing
To round out their time in the Bay Area, the group also took in the breathtaking scenery of Mount Tamalpais and Muir Beach, enjoying stunning panoramic and coastal views of these sites, along with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Palace of Fine Arts.
Exchanges Impact
This exchange program demonstrated the importance of information sharing and collaboration in addressing modern cybersecurity challenges. Through meetings with local experts, the delegation gained actionable insights on cyber threat mitigation, blockchain intelligence, and public-private cooperation, while also sharing their own experiences and approaches. Equally important, cultural experiences like Home Hospitality and historical site visits fostered deeper appreciation and understanding of our community and nation.
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cybercrimes-Pakistan-Banner-1.png4241128Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2025-02-28 12:30:062025-05-03 20:21:04Tackling Cybercrimes: An Exchange for Pakistan
In collaboration with the Institute of International Education and the Office of International Visitors at the U.S. Department of State, Global Ties San Francisco had the privilege of implementing an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) project for Türkiye entitled, Approaches to Urban Search and Rescue in the United States.
During their stay in the San Francisco Bay Area from January 23-28, 2025, our four distinguished emergency management professionals — firefighters and city planning experts from İstanbul — connected with their local professional counterparts to exchange best practices and address shared challenges related to urban search and rescue (USAR) operations, specialized USAR training, and the integration of earthquake science into disaster management strategies.
Professional Highlights
A key focus of the meetings was the history of earthquakes in the Bay Area and the broader state of California, with particular attention to the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. The 6.9-magnitude earthquake, which struck approximately 56 miles (90 kilometers) south of San Francisco along the San Andreas fault, marked a turning point in California’s approach to safe transit infrastructure and disaster management protocols. This event, along with the 7.9-magnitude San Francisco earthquake in 1906, which also occurred along the San Andreas fault, were defining moments in the region’s seismic preparedness and response strategies.
The group’s discussions highlighted the shared seismic risks between our communities, drawing remarkable similarities between California’s San Andreas fault and Türkiye’s East Anatolian fault—the geological location of two massive 7.8- and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes that devastated Türkiye and Syria on February 6, 2023. The parallels between our two earthquake zones give local and global seismologists much to learn from one another, offering a window for “earthquake diplomacy” between nations.
Further topics explored included the critical role of statewide earthquake data collection and dissemination systems, such as the ShakeAlert® earthquake early warning system, and how these technologies are used to inform and protect Californians. These discussions provided valuable insights that can enhance earthquake resilience both locally and globally.
A discussion on emergency planning with the City of Oakland Fire Department’s Emergency Management Services Division highlighted shared challenges cities face during emergencies and demonstrated the value of exchanging best practices to maximize collective impact.
Cultural Experiences
Beyond their professional appointments, the visitors further enriched their understanding of the U.S. through a visit to the California Academy of Sciences, a group favorite due to its interactive shake room that simulates real earthquake experiences. Visitors particularly enjoyed this opportunity to explore a local earthquake preparedness and awareness center geared toward the public.
In addition, the international visitors enjoyed a special guided tour of San Francisco led by The Platinum Concierge, which took them through the City’s most iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, Alamo Square and its famous Painted Ladies, Fisherman’s Wharf including Ghirardelli Square and the sea lions at Pier 39, Twin Peaks, Chinatown, North Beach, City Hall, Lombard Street, and Haight-Ashbury. One of the tour’s highlights was a visit to Ocean Beach, where participants had the chance to relax in the sand and take in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
International Collaboration
Overall, during their brief stay in the Bay Area, the international visitors engaged in productive professional discussions and enriching cultural activities. These interactions underscored the invaluable role of people-to-people exchange in addressing some of the most pressing challenges faced by the international community, particularly in fostering resilient communities that can withstand the impacts of environmental change and urban disasters.
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Urban-SAR-Newsletter-Banner_v2.png4241128Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2025-01-31 09:30:212025-02-21 00:56:52IVLP Highlight: Approaches to Urban Search and Rescue in the United States | Türkiye
As 2024 draws to a close, I am filled with gratitude and pride as I reflect on an extraordinary year for Global Ties San Francisco. This year, we welcomed 529 international visitors from 136 countries, creating countless opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange and collaboration through our international exchange programs.
By fostering dialogues on critical global topics — from climate action and human rights to entrepreneurship and cybersecurity — our programs have built bridges across borders and strengthened San Francisco’s role as a hub for citizen diplomacy.
None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our incredible team and interns, the support of our partners, and the generosity of our Home Hospitality community.
As I prepare to step down as President and CEO of World Trade Center Northern California /Global Ties San Francisco, I am deeply humbled by the experiences we’ve shared and the impact we’ve achieved together. It has been a privilege to lead this organization and to witness the power of diplomacy in action. I am confident that the dedicated team at Global Ties San Francisco will continue to expand its reach and deepen its impact in the years to come.
Thank you to our supporters, partners, and community for making this journey so meaningful. While I may be stepping away from my role, I will always remain a proud champion of the work we do here at Global Ties San Francisco.
With warm regards and best wishes for the new year,
Kevin Mather President/CEO Global Ties San Francisco World Trade Center Northern California
https://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/KevinBanner.png4241128Alannah Crandallhttps://globaltiessf.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GT_SF_logo_tagline_CMYK_original-1030x155.pngAlannah Crandall2024-12-20 16:00:002024-12-21 01:54:35A Letter from Our President and CEO, Kevin Mather
From December 7-11, 2024, Global Ties San Francisco hosted the American Foreign Policy, Economic Security, and the People’s Republic of China delegation from Germany on behalf of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and in partnership with World Learning.
During their stay in the San Francisco Bay Area, thirteen German academics, policy experts, journalists, and business representatives met with local Bay Area organizations to better understand American foreign policy and factors that shape economic security, to gain a West Coast perspective on U.S.-China trade relations, to engage with the local Chinese diaspora, and to ultimately bring back valuable insights to their respective regions in Germany.
Professional Highlights
A standout experience for the international visitors was their meeting with Mr. Ron Brown, a Maritime Marketing and Commodities representative at the Port of Oakland. Drawing upon Mr. Brown’s in-depth knowledge of local trade and commerce channels, our visitors explored how the Port of Oakland contributes to the economic viability and strength of the region by serving as one of California’s largest container ports and a critical export gateway for agricultural and refrigerated products from the region.
Visitors explore the Port of Oakland with Ron Brown
The discussion inspired insightful questions from the visitors, such as how the pandemic affected the Port’s operations, global trade partner relations, and the Port’s efforts to make operations more sustainable.
The visitors also enjoyed a tour and first-hand look at the Port’s efforts to become a zero-emissions seaport, with notable sights including state-of-the-art hybrid electric cranes.
Another professional meeting was the group’s discussion with Mr. Douglas Wallace, Director of the U.S. Export Assistance Center at the U.S. Commercial Service – San Francisco Office. The meeting examined the role of the U.S. Commercial Service in supporting local businesses’ efforts to expand internationally, particularly in the areas of economic development and security. Additionally, participants gained exposure to the greater U.S. Commercial Service ecosystem, which includes more than 100 U.S. Commercial Service offices nationwide and more than 70 international offices. Overall, the meeting helped contextualize economic services provided by the U.S federal government on the local level in California.
Other professional highlights included connecting the international visitors with the local Chinese diaspora and Asian American community artists through a visit to a cultural center, a meeting with notable scholars from the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, and a discussion with SEMI—a global microelectronics industry association.
Cultural Experiences
Beyond professional appointments, the visitors further enriched their understanding of the U.S. by sharing a meal with San Franciscans through Global Ties San Francisco’s Home Hospitality program.
“An unforgettable experience!”
In addition, the visitors also attended a Guided City Tour of San Francisco, exploring the beauty and most iconic sites that make San Francisco the famous “City by the Bay!”
Supporting People-to-People Diplomacy
Through successful IVLP programming like this project for Germany, Global Ties San Francisco aims to fulfill the mission of the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program by connecting emerging foreign leaders to the United States to engage in people-to-people diplomacy, foster professional international relationships, and inspire strong global partnerships.
Meet Our Spring 2025 Intern!
