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Maryland Department of Commerce

Global Gateway - Soft Landing Program (Foreign Companies)

The Soft Landing Program gives international companies a low-risk, affordable way to explore the U.S. market before going “all-in.” Program partners provide access to facilities, resources, advisors, and more, and eligible companies can receive funding toward the costs of entering the market.

What's Offered

Through Global Gateway partners, participating companies can:

  • Place up to two staff at a time for six months at a business facility, with “plug and play” access to amenities such as internet and conference space (partners can assist with these costs for up to six months)
  • Access learning, networking, and mentoring services during the six-month period. Each partner offers at least two of: training programs, networking events, participant funding, strategic partnerships or special programs, and access to mentors, advisors, or entrepreneurs-in-residence
  • Take part in at least five targeted matchmaking meetings with Maryland companies, industries, and organizations
  • Get help with business registration and navigating State regulations

The list of participating partners breaks down each program’s services, specialties, and locations.

Who's Eligible

To be eligible, a company must:

  • Have been legally registered as a business in its home country for at least one year
  • Have at least five full-time equivalent employees in its home country
  • Have had at least $500,000 USD in sales revenue and/or external investment in a single year (2024 or 2025)
  • Be able to land physically in Maryland within six months of the application date

Funding

Eligible companies can receive funding toward the physical, programmatic, and other costs of entering the market. To receive funds, a company must ultimately sign an agreement with a Global Gateway partner organization.

You do not need a partner lined up first.  If you are not already in contact with a partner organization, complete the application anyway and Commerce will help identify one for you.

How to Apply

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Apply now. For details, see the Frequently Asked Questions - PDF - 102.94 KB.

Contact

Jason Callejas
International Investment and Trade Specialist
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 667-263-9354