Entrepreneurship and Innovation in the U.S. | IVLP Visit | Europe & Eurasia
Global Ties Akron is proud to welcome a delegation of emerging leaders from Europe and Eurasia to Akron, Ohio, as part of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). This professional exchange explores entrepreneurship, innovation ecosystems, and economic development in the United States.
About the Visit
On February 20, 2026, Global Ties Akron hosts a delegation of international professionals from the Europe and Eurasia region as part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) — the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program. This visit is coordinated through MCID (Meridian Center for International Development), one of the program’s National Program Agencies.
Participants will engage with local entrepreneurs, innovation hubs, and business leaders across the greater Akron region — exploring how American cities cultivate startup culture, commercialize research, and build ecosystems that support economic growth.
About the IVLP
The International Visitor Leadership Program is the U.S. Department of State’s most prestigious professional exchange program. For over 80 years, the IVLP has connected current and emerging foreign leaders with their American counterparts. Past participants include hundreds of current and former heads of state, government ministers, and international influencers.
This program is administered by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) and organized in Akron through Global Ties Akron, a member of the Global Ties U.S. network.
About Global Ties Akron
Global Ties Akron is a nonprofit organization that brings the world to Akron — and Akron to the world. We coordinate local programming for U.S. Department of State exchange visitors, connecting international leaders with the people, institutions, and ideas that make Northeast Ohio special.
Explore upcoming exchange visits →
Interested in getting involved? Local organizations, business leaders, and community members can participate as hosts, speakers, or networking partners.