Words from the Executive Director | 36th Annual SACC-DC Open 2024 | In the spotlight: SOME (So Others Might Eat) Interview | International Women in Leadership Forum | Recommended Readings | Highlights | Other highlights

Since 1989 SACC-DC has offered a platform for developing U.S. – Swedish lucrative commercial ventures and professional opportunities through our network, business and social events. The SACC-DC Newsletter will help you stay on top of what’s happening in the Swedish-American business community and find the perfect opportunity to create new business connections in the greater Washington D.C. area and Mid-Atlantic region.

WORDS FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

36TH ANNUAL SACC-DC OPEN 2024

On October 17th, we proudly hosted the 36th Annual SACC-DC Open 2024 at Whiskey Creek Golf Club. We are thrilled with the turnout and the positive energy that all participants brought to the event. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to everyone who joined us, including representatives from our sponsoring companies, members, and young professionals.

The day commenced with welcome remarks from: Jim Creevy, Chair of SACC-DC's Golf Committee; Scott Wisnom, Director of Golf at Whiskey Creek Golf Club; and Kjell Kringsja, President at Nammo Inc, our Platinum sponsor. We also had the pleasure to be accompanied by Mathias Hultgren, the Economic Counselor and Head of Trade and Economic Affairs at the Swedish Embassy who held a keynote speech during the reception.

We hope all attendees enjoyed the day filled with engaging contests, networking opportunities, and beautiful weather. The event wrapped up with a reception where we celebrated the achievements of the tournament’s top players and contest winners, accompanied by drinks and dinner.

First place with a score of 56: Beyer Volvo Cars Dulles: Pete Kesterson, Todd Curling, Tom Hickey & David Kelly

Runner up with a score of 61: ABB: Rob Curtis, Anthony Altamura, Steve Snyder & Jim Creevy

Winner straight drive #2: Gerald Furiss

Winner longest drive men #4: Anthony Altamura

Winner longest drive women #4: Jesica Lindgren

Winner closest to the pin #7: Peter Grafstrom

Winner closest to the pin #15: Ryan Simon 

Winner longest putt #18: David Kelly

We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to our gold sponsors: Volvo Cars, Haypp Group, ABB, and Forbes Tate & Partners. Our gratitude also goes to our silver sponsors: Volvo Group North America, Ovzon, and Axis Communication. We would like to acknowledge Beyer Volvo Cars Dulles for sponsoring several contests, and a very special thank you to our platinum sponsor, Nammo Inc. Thank you all for making this event a resounding success!

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: SOME (So Other Might Eat) INTERVIEW

Through our SACC-DC Open 2024 Platinum sponsors Nammo Inc, we have recently partnered with the local charity organization SOME (So Others Might Eat). We reached out to Alison Donovan, MPA director and David McCorvey, Communications and Marketing manager at SOME for a short interview where we asked them to tell us more about the organization and the community.

Given the significant challenges in the D.C. and DMV area—such as unemployment, homelessness, and lack of access to medical care—how does SOME tailor its programs to effectively address these issues for diverse populations, including those of foreign descent?

• SOME’s programs are low barrier to entry, like that of our dining and emergency services. No ID is required to receive a nutritious meal, to take a warm shower, or to receive clean clothes. Some of our staff members are bilingual and are able to help communicate SOME’s offerings should someone of foreign descent come to us seeking assistance. We also ensure meal offerings are available to those who may follow religions that have strict dining protocols.

Can you share some key statistics or educational numbers regarding homelessness and unemployment in the D.C. area, and how do these figures inform SOME’s strategies and initiatives?

• More than 74,000 people experience food insecurity in Washington, DC and nearly 5,000 people are experiencing homelessness. SOME knows that we must continue to provide daily meal service, especially in times of economic uncertainty. With inflation, we have seen an increased demand especially for our food pantry services. Our affordable housing strategy is impacted by knowing how many people seek a safe and stable home. We will continue to offer affordable housing with wraparound services to ensure the best possible success for our residents.

What specific examples of successful programs or initiatives at SOME highlight your organization's impact on these critical issues, and how can individuals or corporations get involved, whether through donations or volunteering?

• A special service SOME offers is the ability for those without a home address to receive mail. In 2023, more than 41,000 pieces of mail were distributed to those without a home. While this service may not seem important at face value, the ability to receive mail means the ability to receive benefits like social security and Covid stimulus checks during the pandemic. It also means these individuals can vote in elections. 

Thank you Alison, David and SOME, SACC-DC are looking forward to future collaborations together with you!

They are always looking for volunteers to help them with their work. Whether it’s service meals, gardening, painting walls, or engaging with their seniors, there is always some way to become involved. Visit their website down below for more information.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP FORUM

In collaboration with the British-American Business Association and the French-American Chamber of Commerce, we hosted a forum titled "International Women in Leadership." Participants had the opportunity to engage with some of Washington, D.C.'s leading women in international business, foreign affairs, and diplomacy. Greta Lundeberg, Head of Government Policy and Advocacy for the Americas at Ericsson, and Lena Bartholdsson, Defense Counselor at the Embassy of Sweden, represented Sweden, SACC-DC and the Swedish Government community.

Exercise together with Shelly Belk, Behavior Change Coach

Two panel discussions focused on Industry and Government and shared insights about their career journeys, including the opportunities and obstacles they encountered, effective leadership practices, and the significance of mentorship. They also provided valuable tips and strategies for participants to advance their own career paths. The event was a resounding success, featuring engaging panel discussions, a luncheon, and ample networking opportunities.

Greta Lundeberg emphasized that there is no singular approach to management and operations as a leader. She highlighted the importance of authenticity, encouraging leaders to lower their personal barriers and openly share both their successes and challenges with their teams. This transparency, she noted, fosters stronger relationships and ultimately contributes to more effective leadership.

In picture from left to right: Greta Lundeberg, Head of Government Policy and Advocacy for the Americas at Ericsson, Nancy Ziuzin Schlegel, VP of International Government Affairs at Lockheed Martin & Claire Gini, Sr. Director of regional transformation & integration at Airbus

In picture from left to right: Lucy Ferguson, Minister Counsellor for Foreign, Security and Development Policy at the British Embassy, Alexa Chopivsky, Executive Director at Women's Foreign Policy Group, and Lena Bartholdsson, Defense Counselor at the Embassy of Sweden

Lena Bartholdsson expressed her belief that emotional intelligence is essential in the workplace, noting that female bosses tend to excel in this area more than their male counterparts. She pointed out that the circumstances for women working in the government or state sectors in Sweden are particularly favorable. Lena highlighted Sweden's generous parental leave policy, which allows for 480 days—equivalent to 16 months—of leave. Notably, she emphasized that 90 of those days are specifically allocated to each parent and cannot be transferred between them. This structure encourages men to be more involved in family life, contributing to a more balanced home and work environment for both parents.

RECOMMENDED READINGS

SACC-USA'S EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS THOUGHTS ON THE UPCOMING ELECTION

PRESS RELASE FROM MINISTRY OF DEFENCE IN SWEDEN

Written interview by Emanuel Side, published in "Dagens Industri" on October 8th, 2024

Karin Hammar, Executive Director of SACC-USA, was recently interviewed by a Swedish newspaper, where she shared her perspectives on the upcoming U.S. Presidential Election and its implications for the Swedish-American market.

Although the article is in Swedish, here are two main insights for our English-speaking audience:

Economic Perspectives: Many Swedish entrepreneurs feel that American voters generally perceive Trump as more advantageous for the economy and more supportive of business interests, despite the potential for his tariffs to increase costs for consumers.

Candidate Preferences: Current polls suggest a tight contest between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump for the presidency. However, only 29% of Swedish entrepreneurs in the U.S. believe that Trump has a strong chance of winning, with a notable number leaning toward Harris.

Published on government.com on October 15th, 2024

"New Total Defense Resolution for a Stronger Sweden"

The Swedish Government has unveiled a Total Defence Bill for the period 2025–2030, which outlines significant enhancements to Sweden's total defense capabilities. The proposal includes a historic investment of over SEK 170 billion allocated to military defense and SEK 37.5 billion dedicated to civil defense through 2030. As a result of these substantial investments, defence expenditures are projected to reach 2.6 percent of GDP by 2028.

HIGHLIGHTS

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL VISIT: WORLD BANK

Are you part of our young professional network and interested in joining us for our next company visit - register now for our visit to the World Bank!

This unique chance allows you to delve into the workings of one of the world’s leading financial institutions dedicated to reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development. Join us to gain valuable insights from experts about global development strategies and how the World Bank addresses critical issues like climate change, health, and education. It’s also a great opportunity to network with professionals who share a passion for making a difference and to explore potential career paths in international development.

When: November 15th 

Location: World Bank Building, 1850 I St NW, Washington, DC 20433

Time: TBA

POST-ELECTION HAPPY HOUR

Let’s come together to unwind and connect with fellow members of the SACC-DC community! We’re excited to invite you to a special happy hour where you can enjoy good company, delicious drinks, and engaging conversations.

This is a fantastic opportunity to network with fellow professionals, share your thoughts on the recent election, and discuss how the outcomes may shape our businesses moving forward. Whether you want to dive into the political landscape or simply catch up with old friends, there’s plenty of room for both!

Stay tuned for additional information coming your way shortly!

SIREUS THANKS YOU FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION AT STUDY IN SWEDEN

In early October, nine Swedish universities participated in "Study in Sweden" events across the United States, hosted at the House of Sweden in Washington, D.C., SACC-NY in New York, and the Scandinavian School and Cultural Center in San Francisco. 

The SIREUS project's goal is to enhance Sweden's appeal as a study destination for American students and researchers. Attendees learned about various university programs, scholarships, student life, and the Swedish application process.

At the Washington, D.C. event, SIREUS welcomed Christer Bergman, founder and director of SIREUS, along with Maria Brogren, Head of the Office of Science and Innovation (OSI), who shared insights on the benefits of studying in Sweden.

SIREUS extends its gratitude to all contributors, attendees, and the Swedish Embassy for their support in making these events successful.

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

News from SACC-USA and the Embassy

Stay updated on reading the newsletter from the Swedish Embassy and SACC-USA.

BUSINESS SERVICES PROVIDED BY SACC-DC

SACC-DC holds a unique position to provide members valuable connections with other member companies or small businesses, potentially resulting in new collaborations, clients, and partnerships. Read more about our B2B Matchmaking service and how to make a request here. Your company has the opportunity to be assisted by a Business Associate or a trainee with short-term projects aiming to increase your knowledge about specific markets. Read more about our Trade Services and how to make a request here.

INTERESTED IN JOINING THE SACC-DC COMMUNITY?

Visit our membership page to join as a new member, or renew your membership through the membership portal. SACC DC organizes many events throughout the year to give our members access to professional networking. We also tailor trade missions for Swedish companies interested in the Greater Washington, D.C. area. Whether an individual with a keen interest in or connection with Sweden living in D.C. or a company looking to establish new relationships, we can help you reach your next goal!

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