Economic Diplomacy

International Cooperation

What Businesses Gain

Through our international partnerships and contacts, companies from the Zlín Region gain access to opportunities that are difficult to secure independently — particularly in the United States market, especially in Texas.

Specific benefits for businesses:

we directly connect businesses with international partners, customers, and supply chain opportunities
we open access to a purposefully built network of investors, entrepreneurs, and innovation partners
we facilitate participation in trade missions, delegations, and high-level meetings
we enable entry into innovation ecosystems in the USA, particularly in Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio, now also extending into the Bastrop region
we provide mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts
we assist with entering the American market (company formation, visas, legal and tax matters, financing)
we offer the use of facilities in the USA, including office space through the Global Austin Launchpad programme
we connect businesses with universities, research organisations, and industry networks
we support PR activities, brand building, and long-term development in international markets

We bridge the gap between the Zlín Region and the global marketplace. Our focus extends beyond introductions; we cultivate the enduring, strategic partnerships that drive commercial success.

International Delegations

We organise targeted international delegations that connect businesses directly with partners, customers, and innovation ecosystems.

Delegation programmes typically include:

high-level meetings with economic development organisations and government representatives
visits to industrial facilities and tours of innovation ecosystems
meetings with business partners and potential clients
participation in events focused on innovation and technology networks
discussions on specific cooperation opportunities with local and international partners
strategic networking with industry leaders, investors, and other key stakeholders
participation in major global events such as SXSW in Austin, Texas, or the Texas Space Summit

Participation in these delegations, combined with targeted company visits and institutional meetings, helps businesses establish concrete business relationships, gain a better understanding of foreign markets, and enter them effectively.

Academic Cooperation

Our activities also include developing international cooperation in the field of education and research.

We support the connection of Tomas Bata University in Zlín with international partners, particularly in the United States. We focus on developing student and faculty exchange programmes and establishing joint educational initiatives.

One example is the cooperation with St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas, which provides concrete opportunities for international exchange of expertise and the development of the academic environment.

This cooperation also creates space for linking research, innovation, and practice, contributing to the development of the region.

Impact on the Zlín Region

ZRIA’s economic diplomacy activities contribute to the long-term development of the region by expanding international partnerships and creating new opportunities for local businesses.

Key impacts include:

Increased international visibility of the Zlín Region
Growth in exports and business opportunities
Integration into global innovation ecosystems
Strengthening cooperation between industry, academia, and international partners
Development of strategic relationships with global companies and suppliers
Organisation of targeted international missions by ZRIA that connect businesses directly with partners, customers, and innovation ecosystems