Your bridge between Europe and the US
Companies don’t just seek advice, they seek results, relevance, and a partner who understands their operational reality. Whether the goal is to turn strategy into execution, remove barriers to growth, or expand into new markets, success requires more than a plan. As transatlantic business development specialists, we leverage a deep international network and hands-on global experience to connect people, projects, and opportunities, including in advanced and dual-use technologies. We operate comfortably in complex, high-stakes environments, where challenges are not obstacles but catalysts for impact.
Creation & Animation of Business Communities
Development and management of international business communities across Europe and the U.S. Structuring and leadership of sector-focused Special Interest Groups.
Organization of high-impact events, conferences, and webinars.
Advocacy for European companies in U.S. markets and institutional environments.
Promotion of cross-border engagement among corporate, governmental, and innovation stakeholders.
U.S. Market Entry & Expansion for Foreign Companies
Design and execution of U.S. market entry strategies for European firms, including highly regulated and dual-use industries.
Support for establishing U.S. branches and positioning in civilian and strategic markets.
Guidance on regulatory, cultural, and operational requirements.
Facilitation of partnerships across public, private, and defense-related ecosystems.
Assistance for executive relocation and onboarding within the U.S. ecosystem.
Linking European & U.S. Business Ecosystems
Connection of European innovation hubs with major U.S. economic centers.
Development of multi-country strategic partnerships and business networks.
Engagement with chambers of commerce, economic agencies, and industry clusters.
Acceleration of international cooperation, joint ventures, and investment opportunities.
Enhancement of visibility and access for European organizations within U.S. markets.
28
years of knowledge
of the US
400
professional guests hosted during an economic mission
2,000
community active members developed in three years
6
partnerships with major local
Chambers of commerce in theUS
6
community chapters opened in 4 states and 2 countries
5,000
LinkedIn followers developed
from scratch in 3 years
“ I am an international executive with over 30 years of leadership experience across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, currently serving as CEO of Belwest, the accredited Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce for thirteen western U.S. states, while also leading AC Consulting.
I support European companies in entering and scaling in the U.S. by building strategic connections, fostering cross-border business communities, and linking key innovation ecosystems across continents, including in advanced, dual-use, and defense-related sectors. My profile combines multinational executive experience, entrepreneurial leadership, deep cultural fluency, and a proven ability to bridge public and private sectors.
With AC Consulting, our vision is to strengthen the transatlantic innovation corridor, and our mission is to accelerate U.S. market success for foreign companies while creating meaningful, lasting connections between Europe and the United States.”
Connect directly with Alain Charbonnier
contact[at]alaincharbonnier.com
Los Angeles - Brussels - Luxembourg - Paris
Expertise
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Engineering background
With a solid engineering foundation, Alain has developed advanced expertise in systems analysis, technical problem-solving, and complex decision-making. He excels at structuring ambiguous situations, identifying root causes, assessing trade-offs, and driving informed, high-impact decisions in technically demanding environments.
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Transatlantic Business Development
Having worked for over two decades with businesses located in or with ties to the US, in such diverse fields as tech, IT, oil and gas, automotive, and manufacturing, Alain has in-depth knowledge of the vastly different business ecosystems in the US and Europe. He uses this expertise to build partnerships, negotiate deals, and grow your business.
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Cross-continental Management
Extensive hands-on experience in leading large, geographically dispersed teams across multiple continents. Proven ability to manage complex organizational structures spanning more than 20 countries, align diverse cultures and time zones, and drive operational coherence. Strong expertise in cross-cultural leadership, governance, performance management, and coordination of global stakeholders in high-complexity environments.
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Growth and Scaling
Whether you're working to launch a startup or managing an established profit center, Alain has the experience you need to build relationships that foster rapid growth for SMEs or long-term stability for multinationals.
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Public Speaking
Since 2018, Alain has given talks and presentations across Europe on such diverse topics as American history, culture, and economics, entrepreneurship and business, building a life abroad, and eSports.
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Dual-use Technologies
Alain is a trusted expert in dual-use technologies, bridging civilian innovation and defense applications. Combining engineering expertise with transatlantic business development, he supports strategy, partnerships, compliance, and market access, acting as an SME, connector, and deal facilitator across US and European ecosystems.

