Our Mission
The Charlotte International Business Hub is an independent, business-led community primarily serving DACH-region and European SMEs, with open doors to companies from any country. We provide the local knowledge, professional network, and hands-on guidance that international companies need to establish and grow in Charlotte and the Carolinas — and feel at home doing it.
By Business, For Business.
Our Vision
To make Charlotte the gateway for European businesses entering the American market — a place where international entrepreneurs find not just opportunity, but a community that feels like home.
How It Works
The Journey, Together
You bring the business. The Hub brings the connections and the community — and trusted partners do the hands-on work. We walk the journey with you, start to finish.
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Arrive
Knowledge & CommunityJoin as an affiliate and step into a community of international founders who've already made the move. Always-on knowledge and real peers who get it — from day one.
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Get Connected
Guided ConnectionsThis is where the Hub earns its name. We open the right doors — legal, banking, operational — and the hands-on work itself is delivered by trusted partners. The right people, at the right time.
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Belong & Grow
Community & EventsRegular gatherings and events, and a community where you belong rather than just network. You're part of the fabric now — and you help the next company find its footing in Charlotte.
Who We Serve
Built for Global Ambition
International Companies
Whether you're coming from Germany, Switzerland, Austria, or anywhere else in the world — you've built something great at home. Now you're ready for the American market. We help you skip the costly mistakes and connect directly with the people who matter.
Charlotte Businesses
The world is coming to Charlotte. Be part of the community that welcomes international business and builds cross-Atlantic partnerships.
Everything you need to know about establishing your business in Charlotte.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Charlotte International Business Hub?
The Charlotte International Business Hub is an independent 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization in Charlotte, NC. We help European small and mid-sized businesses establish, connect, and grow in the American Southeast — without government bureaucracy. We are run by business people, for business people.
How do European companies enter the US market through the Hub?
Companies apply to become an affiliate, get connected with local experts and partners, and join a community of international founders already operating in Charlotte. The Hub makes the introductions and builds the community — the hands-on establishment work (legal setup, banking, operations) is delivered by trusted partners.
Why choose Charlotte, NC for US market entry?
Charlotte is the second-largest banking center in the US, home to Fortune 500 companies including Bank of America and Honeywell. Charlotte Douglas International Airport ranks 6th in the world for aircraft operations, ahead of Los Angeles, Shanghai, and Istanbul (ACI 2024). Combined with a lower cost of business than NYC or Chicago, it offers an ideal Southeast hub for European companies.
What does "by business, for business" mean?
It means we are independently governed and funded by the business community itself — not by government grants or public funding. Every decision is made by experienced business operators who understand the real challenges of international expansion.
Is the Charlotte Hub a government agency?
No. The Charlotte International Business Hub is a fully independent 501(c)(6) nonprofit. We receive no government funding and operate independently from any government agency or chamber of commerce.
What industries does the Hub support?
The Charlotte International Business Hub is open to all companies — regardless of industry, size, or stage. Whether you are a startup exploring the US market or an established business ready to expand, if you have a solid business model and the ambition to grow, there is a place for you in our community. While our roots are in the European and DACH business community, we welcome companies from any country looking to establish a presence in Charlotte.
How is the Hub funded?
The Hub is self-sustaining through affiliate dues, corporate sponsorships, and community initiatives. All revenue covers operational costs and community programs — no private profits are distributed.
Where is the Charlotte Hub located?
The Charlotte International Business Hub operates in Charlotte, NC — the economic capital of the American Southeast, one hour from the Blue Ridge Mountains and within reach of major East Coast markets.
Leadership
The People Behind the Hub
Photo coming soon
Hans Heinrich Hilgenstock
Board Chairman & Co-Founder
Our external voice and network connector. With deep roots in European and American business, Hans brings the relationships and vision that open doors for international companies entering the US market.
Photo coming soon
Clark Fritzsch
Executive Director & Co-Founder
Driving day-to-day operations, program development, and community building. The operational engine behind the Hub — connecting international ambition with Charlotte's business community.
Board of Directors · Honorary Board Announcement coming soon