For many founders building in Scotland, the United States often represents one of the most strategic as well as complex expansion opportunities. Access to customers, capital, and partnerships can accelerate growth, yet entering the market without preparation can often invite slow progress and expensive lessons.
Techscaler’s international programmes are designed to help founders approach this step with clarity and intention. Delivered by CodeBase, the programme supports companies across Scotland with the mentorship, ecosystem access, and structured preparation required to engage international markets with confidence.
The 2026 international calendar includes a dedicated two-week programme in New York and New Jersey in June 2026, providing founders with an opportunity to explore one of the most influential technology ecosystems in the world while developing a deeper understanding of how the East Coast market operates.
The New York opportunity will be geared towards Techscaler member businesses that have already begun engaging with the US market, supporting them to move beyond initial conversations, experience New York’s business culture first hand, build on existing relationships, and establish a credible presence within the ecosystem.
Applications for the programme are now open.
Why the East Coast matters for scaling companies
The New York and New Jersey region offers a distinctive environment for international expansion. The area brings together dense networks of investors, corporates, and industry specialists operating across sectors such as fintech, health technology, climate innovation, and enterprise software.
For companies building in these areas, proximity to decision makers can significantly shorten the path to meaningful partnerships and commercial conversations. The region also provides a gateway to the wider US market while maintaining a timezone that allows UK companies to remain closely connected to their teams at home.
Equally important is the growing appetite for UK technology companies within the East Coast ecosystem. New York in particular has developed strong links with European founders and investors, creating an environment where international companies can begin building relationships while gaining practical insight into operating in the United States.
Designed for preparation and execution
Techscaler’s international programmes focus on helping founders enter new markets with clear objectives rather than treating overseas travel as an exploratory exercise. Preparation begins well before companies arrive in market, with participants working through structured sessions that help them understand the commercial realities of operating internationally.
By the time founders arrive in New York, the emphasis shifts towards meaningful engagement with the ecosystem.
Participants can expect to focus on:
• Understanding how East Coast investors evaluate international startups and early commercial traction
• Building relationships with corporates and partners operating across fintech, health, climate, and enterprise software
• Developing a clearer view of regulatory expectations and operational considerations when entering the US market
• Navigating cultural and commercial dynamics that shape how deals and partnerships progress in New York
The programme will take place during a16z Tech Week, creating a concentrated schedule of events, meetings, and ecosystem introductions that would otherwise take months for companies to arrange independently.
Strengthening Scotland’s global founder network
The New York programme also reflects the way Techscaler’s international engagement continues to evolve. Increasingly, these programmes are shaped through collaboration with global ecosystem partners who bring deep knowledge of local markets. This includes investors, mentors, corporates, and partners who help founders navigate the practical realities of engaging with new regions.
NYC is a nexus that brings together the bleeding edge of business, culture, and innovation...and during Tech Week that is amplified to match the vision of ambitious founders.
- Jennifer Forbes Iannolo, VP Business Acceleration atCodeBase.
As the community of international programme alumni grows, knowledge from previous cohorts continues to circulate within the ecosystem. Founders share introductions, lessons, and market insight that help the next generation approach global expansion with stronger foundations.
Techscaler’s international programmes aim to ensure that when Scottish founders enter ecosystems such as New York, they do so with the preparation, networks, and strategic perspective required to convert opportunity into lasting growth.
Apply now for the programme. Applications close on Monday 30 March at 9am BST.
