International growth offers great opportunities, but it also comes with new challenges. Entering a new market means dealing with cultural differences, local regulations, unfamiliar sales processes and often a lack of local networks. That is exactly where the Global Market Entry Program (GMEP) supports entrepreneurs.
In the latest podcast episode, Elisa van Maanen-Gentzsch
Program Manager of GMEP, explains how the program helps entrepreneurs from the South Holland region successfully take their first – and next – steps abroad.
Why international expansion is challenging
Many entrepreneurs are successful in their home market. Their product works, they know their customers and have gained traction. However, entering a new country often means starting from scratch.
Common challenges include:
- Products and services rarely translate one-to-one to another market
- Cultural differences strongly influence sales and communication
- Each country has its own laws and regulations
- Local networks are often missing
GMEP helps entrepreneurs overcome these barriers with practical knowledge, structure and tailored guidance.
What is the Global Market Entry Program?
GMEP is a nine-month business bootcamp designed for SMEs that want to expand into markets such as Germany, France or the United Kingdom. The program is facilitated by The Hague & Partners and InnovationQuarter, in close cooperation with experienced country experts.
The program includes:
- Strategic workshops on internationalisation
- One-on-one coaching by country specialists
- Market-specific culture and pitch training
- Legal and practical sessions
- Trade missions and international events
- Access to a strong peer and alumni network
All elements are focused on one goal: enabling sustainable and successful international growth.
From ambition to a solid market strategy
A key element of GMEP is reflection. Many entrepreneurs enter the program with a clear idea of their target market, but quickly discover that reality can differ.
One example from the podcast:
An entrepreneur developing educational robotics software planned to enter the German market. During the program, it became clear that digitalisation in German schools was far less advanced than expected. Thanks to early insights from GMEP, the entrepreneur was able to adjust the strategy in time, saving both time and resources.
Learning from experts and fellow entrepreneurs
GMEP is sector-agnostic, bringing together entrepreneurs from a wide range of industries. This diversity creates valuable peer learning opportunities. During workshops, pitch sessions and international missions, participants learn not only from experts, but also from each other.
This combination of strategy, practical experience and community is what makes the program unique. Even after the program ends, entrepreneurs continue to support each other through the GMEP network.
Who is GMEP for?
The program is designed for SMEs that:
- Offer a proven product or service
- Have traction in their home market (or a clear reason to internationalize early)
- Operate with a team and sufficient capacity
- Are willing to invest in international growth
- Are based in one of the 21 municipalities within the MRDH region
All interested entrepreneurs from the region can apply. A selection interview is part of the process to ensure the program matches the company’s ambitions and growth stage.
What results can entrepreneurs expect?
After completing GMEP, participants typically have:
- Clear insight into international opportunities and risks
- A well-founded and realistic market entry strategy
- A concrete multi-year action plan
- Increased focus, confidence and direction
- Access to a valuable international network
In some cases, entrepreneurs realise that postponing international expansion is the smartest decision at that moment – and that insight alone can be a powerful outcome.
Who is GMEP for?
The program is designed for SMEs that:
- Offer a proven product or service
- Have traction in their home market (or a clear reason to internationalize early)
- Operate with a team and sufficient capacity
- Are willing to invest in international growth
- Are based in one of the 21 municipalities within the MRDH region
All interested entrepreneurs from the region can apply. A selection interview is part of the process to ensure the program matches the company’s ambitions and growth stage.
What results can entrepreneurs expect?
After completing GMEP, participants typically have:
- Clear insight into international opportunities and risks
- A well-founded and realistic market entry strategy
- A concrete multi-year action plan
- Increased focus, confidence and direction
- Access to a valuable international network
In some cases, entrepreneurs realise that postponing international expansion is the smartest decision at that moment – and that insight alone can be a powerful outcome.
Interested in joining the next program?
The next GMEP program starts late February / early March. There are 20 places available, and recruitment is currently open.
More information and registration can be found on this website. Entrepreneurs can also schedule an introductory call to explore whether GMEP is the right fit.
Want to learn more about international entrepreneurship? Listen to the GMEP Podcast and discover how ambitious entrepreneurs are expanding beyond borders.
Program Manager GMEP
e.vanmaanen@thehague.com
+31 6 12367036
In This Episode You’ll Learn About:
