BALTNET - Bridging New England with Baltic Nations

Presented by BALTNETHartford, CT.

www.baltnetus.comFall 2013

BALTNET

BALTNET (Baltic – New England Development Network, Inc.) is: a non-profit organization established seven years ago in Connecticut provides resources to institutions in

New England region of the US and Baltic states (Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia) in areas of: Business or trade, Educational or academic and Cultural or heritage-based partnerships.

BALTNET

Mission is to:facilitate successful development of partnerships based on cooperation, exchange of ideas and collaboration between parties from:

New England (CT, MA, RI, Maine,Vermont, New Hampshire) and

Baltic States (Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia).

BALTNET Mission

In general, mission is to: bridge countries, connect resources, develop partnerships, establish exchange.

Promote collaboration and actively support growing business interests of players from both sites by providing: necessary information and access to important resources, including:

transportation, housing, seminars and conferences, establishment and registration of new business or affiliation

agreements.

BALTNET is committed to:

Increase the visibility of Baltics and NE by helping others to understand the variety of assets available

in Baltics: highly educated work force, innovative economic and technology resources, and rich cultural heritage of Baltic States.

in NE: unique opportunities of doing business based on

accessibility to NY and Boston, to world famous academic, technical, biomedical and

other research and technology-based institutions, to high quality health care network and etc.

General info about New England

Location:the northeastern corner of the United States,close proximity to New York City.Six states rich of history and resources: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Variety of Resources:

business, research and educational institutions.

Famous Institutions and Industries in NE:

8 of the nation's top 50 universities. 13 of its top 50 liberal art colleges. Many state-of-the-art universities and medical centers. Most famous:

Yale and Harvard Universities Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Industries include: pharmaceuticals, insurance, manufacturing and defense-related businesses.

Europe: Three Baltic Countries

Central Location

Central European Location

GENERAL INFORMATION about BalticsGENERAL INFORMATION about Baltics

Three Baltic countries: Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia Population of 7 - 8

mln. Located in geographic

center of Europe Lithuania – is

recognized as a center of Europe

Neighboring with: Scandinavian

countries Poland Belorussia Russia

A 90 Million People Market in Baltics

Historically the Baltic Sea region, with its inter-connecting waterways and common sea, has acted as major transport corridor both in itself and for the rest of the world. As long as a thousand years ago trading relations between

both the Swedish Vikings as well as the people in Novgorod area were well established.

During the Middle Ages the Hanseatic League - 70 Baltic Sea cities - formed the most dominating trading way in the world.

The modern Baltic Sea region consists of ten countries with a combined population of 90 million people.

The region is unique because of the mix of different countries bordering the Baltic Sea - the developed economies of Germany and Scandinavia and the expanding economies of the Baltic States, Poland and North-West Russia.

Differences in cost levels between the Scandinavian countries and the emerging markets of the Baltic countries and Poland offer companies an ideal opportunity to combine the advantages of the different parts of the region.

 

Trade and Investment in Baltics

The Baltic Sea region is the fastest growing business region in Europe. The trade flows between countries in the

region has increased constantly year by year.

Foreign direct investments (FDI) have been increasing significantly. The stock of inward FDI in the region as a

whole has been about USD 720 billion a few years ago, and is growing.

Baltic Nations

The Baltic Nations have been surprising the world with their rapid growth and development in all the spheres of life.

They have always demonstrated their extrovert character towards the invitations for cooperation from abroad.

As democratic members of the EU and NATO they are strong partners in political, economic, social or cultural relations with other countries. This is because the people from Baltics have never

ceased following the track, the preservation of its primary values that it chose: investing into their own people’s education and skills as well as maintaining friendly relations with its closest neighbors.

Baltic Nations (cont.)

Baltic Nations Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have: rich histories, highly educated populations and modern businesses that are diverse and

competitive. They can boat of stable markets and are skilled

linguists. With an eye toward strategic, political and

economic security, they set their sights of joining: NATO and the European Union.

Baltic Nations Secrets

People keep asking “what is the secret of Baltic Nations rapid growth and what distinguishes it from the other Eastern European countries?” One of most specific features that its people deservedly proud

of, is the extremely high level of education. The highest-quality services provided by specialists are

particularly marketable in foreign economies. Furthermore, strength and progress is very much based on

country’s long lasting preconditions, such as: continuing close economic cooperation with its Scandinavian

states and other countries of the Baltic Sea region. Danish, Swedish, German, Russian, Finnish, and

Norwegian businesses have been the biggest investors in Baltic Nations.

All three Baltic Nations are moving forward

Lithuania Lithuania got off to an early start on economic

reforms has been labeled by investors as on of

Eastern Europe’s economic “tigers” joined both the EU and NATO in the spring of

2004, is attempting to break from its Russia-

dominated past. has built great partnerships with West Europe

countries.

Latvia

These days Latvia and its vibrant capital Riga, is under siege by a new force: tourism. Cheap flights have brought so many visitors to the

Riga Old Town can feel like one of the busiest places in Europe.

For visitors it also offers the stunning seacoast and a beauty of Gaujas Valley National Park, for investors – many great opportunities.

Unique network for transportations using port and railroad systems.

Estonia

Estonia was happy to sever its Soviet bonds in 1990 and has been quick to revive its historical ties to its Nordic neighbors. Finnish tourism and investment helped to

revitalize the nation. The wealth that has accumulated in Tallinn is

spreading to other cities. Estonians are now proud to take their place as

members of modern Europe. Is know for outstanding achievements in

technology (IT), including development of Skype.

Main Reasons to Invest in Baltics

Political and Social Stability Followed by Rapid Economic Growth Successful Reconstructive Process

Strategic Location Bridging the EU and the East countries (including Russia)

Export Orientated Economy Strong FDI Growth

Well-developed Transportation Networks

Other Reasons to Invest in Baltics

Availability of Well-Trained, Low-Cost Labor Force

Low Operating and Living Costs Free Economic Zones and Industrial Parks Multinational Investor Satisfaction Serve as a key to other countries (East

and West Europe)

Baltic Nations – a bridge for new collaboration Baltic Nations – a bridge for new collaboration with Europe with Europe

HISTORICAL HISTORICAL BBACKGROUND:ACKGROUND:

Baltics: attractive place for

Tourists They retained

commitment to common values:

Democracy rule of law individual liberty

Restored Independence in 1990

Have successful trans-Atlantic integration

Reasons to start and develop business in Baltic States

Easy The World Bank Group Report “Doing Business in 2006:

Creating Jobs” named Lithuania one of the World Top 20 economies (15th in the world) and the best of the new EU states on the ease of doing business.

Each of the Baltic States has a modern banking and financial system. The modern banking technologies, such as e-banking, etc. are fully

implemented. The costs of commercial loans from banks are among the lowest in

Europe, ranging from 5.5% to 6% per year. Excellent infrastructures for foreign businesses.

international airports with direct routes to most European cities best roads in the Baltics, an ice-free sea port and an efficient railway system. fast Internet, the number of mobile telephone network subscribers is very high.

Reasons to start and develop business in Baltics

Safe They are full members of NATO and the

EU, Laws are harmonized with those of the EU,

the countries offer unrestricted movement of capital and dividends.

All three Baltic countries have stable and effective international collaboration and foreign business growth during more than 20 years.

Economics and Trade

Baltic Companies Seeking Partnership in areas of: BIO-TECHNOLOGY MEDICAL EQUIPMENT INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ELECTRONICS - http://www.elsis.lt METAL INDUSTRY & MACHINERY FURNITURE WOOD INDUSTRY TEXTILE INDUSTRY AGRICULTURE & FOOD PROCESSING SOUVENIRS & GIFTS OTHER

Major Centers of Technology

Mostly located in Vilnius, Ryga and Talinn Have a long history of achievements: For Ex. Laser Research Center in Vilnius,

Lithuania Established Department of Quantum Electronics

in 1975. Provides teaching of laser science (quantum

electronics, laser physics, nonlinear optics and spectroscopy, biophotonics and laser engineering).

Provides laboratory research in quantum electronics,, nonlinear optics, laser spectroscopy, and biophotonics.

LITHUANIAN EXPORTS BY SECTORLITHUANIAN EXPORTS BY SECTOR

Metals and articles from

metals4.0%

Wood and articles of

wood4.9%

Products of chemical industry

7.0%

Machinery and equipment

12.0%

Textiles and textile articles

9.2%

Transport means10.1%

Other20.0%

Animals, animal

products; Prepared

foodstuffs5.4%

Mineral products

27.4%

Source: Lithuanian Department of Statistics

Foreign Direct Investment in Lithuania by Country Foreign Direct Investment in Lithuania by Country ((20052005) )

USA5%

Finland8%

Other 20%

Germany13%

Estonia8%

UK3%

Netherlands4%

Russia12%

Denmark13%

Sweden14%

Source: Lithuanian Department of Statistics

Foreign Direct Investment by sector

FDI structure 2004, %

Manufacturing28%

Energy sector4%

Wholesale&retail trade17%

Real estate;Other businesses

7%

Financial intermediation

20%

Others6%

Transport&communications

18%

Ways to accomplish BALTNET Mission

Bridging countries Connecting resources Developing partnerships Establishing exchanges Promoting collaboration Facilitating cultural exchange Providing services

BALTNET Services:

Discover areas of commercial compatibility Develop business partnerships Develop academic partnerships Facilitate Educational exchange programs Facilitate Medical exchange programs Educate Baltic and New England businesses

about mutually beneficial opportunities Facilitate navigation between business cultures Provide insight into business markets in Baltic

Nations and New England.

Existing Projects

BALTNET recently initiated and is participating in the development of an affiliation agreement between the Quinnipiac University (new School of Medicine) and Vilnius University, School of Medicine in Lithuania. New School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University is

oriented to Global Health and International exchange opportunities for faculty and students.

This agreement seeks to develop collaborative opportunities between these two academic institutions in areas of curriculum, problem-based learning, health care and etc. including research-based projects for faculty and researchers

It focuses on developing intercultural exchange and global awareness It also seeks to develop long-term international partnership with Baltics and

to design and implement Public Health based studies or programs for their students.

Existing Projects

BALTNET initiated and participated in the signing of an Affiliation agreement between the University of Connecticut Health Center (School of Medicine and School of Dental Medicine) and Kaunas University of Medicine in Lithuania. This agreement allowed to develop collaborative

opportunities between these two academic institutions including interactions between faculty and researchers

Promoted faculty led research interactions and collaborative publications.

It became an example for other academic institutions seeking to develop international partnerships or global studies based programs.

Research based projects in Ryga, Latvia

In July, 2008 members of BALTNET took a trip to Riga, Latvia. the group witnessed the fast growing business

competition and Latvia’s successful integration into European and global markets

a reflection of the country’s successful National Innovation System.

BALTNET extended an invitation to researchers and companies to attend MEDI 08 in Hartford, CT on September 9-10.

MEDI 08 - a comprehensive annual medical conference and exhibition

It was presented in partnership with BEACON (Biomedical Engineering Alliance & Consortium).

BALTNET in Ryga, Latvia, 2008

BALTNET at MEDI 08

Previous Projects.

Follow-up on: Follow-up on existing projects, contacts, and identification of

priorities for future collaboration Re- establishment of contacts with Lithuanian, Latvian and

Estonian Consulates and Embassies in US Re- establishment of contacts with Lithuanian, Latvian and

Estonian Honorary Consuls in the United States and New England

Identification of interactions and cooperative work with CEENET (Central Eastern European Network) and other similar organizations

Re- establishment of contacts with Trade and Economy related Institutions in Hartford, Connecticut and in New England

New Projects Business Trip to Lithuania during Summer 2014

Vilnius Kaunas

Exploratory/Visit to Baltics during Summer 2014 Development of new academic projects based on requests and

accessibility: USJ, School of Pharmacy and Kaunas, Pharmacy School USJC, Nursing School, and Nursing School in Kaunas, Lithuania USJ, School of Health & Natural Sciences, and School of Public Health

and Institute of Biomedicine in Kaunas, Lithuania International College student exchange Program (between students in

CT (Saint Joseph College) and students in

Lithuania or other Baltic States (Latvia and Estonia) International High School student exchange Program between students

in High School, Farmington, Connecticut and Vilnius, Lithuania

New Projects

City of Kaunas Municipal Officials from Kaunas to visit Hartford

to establish relationships and to better understand the infrastructure of the city of Hartford’s management. 

Establishment of Sister City Relationship between Vilnius and Hartford Exchange and collaborative projects in areas of

education, ecologically safe technologies, alternative energy sources, transportation, city infrastructure and etc.

Other new Projects in progress Establish a High School Exchange Program between Connecticut and

the Baltic Region ie: Connecticut High School, Farmington and Vilnius High School in Lithuania Rocky Hill High School and Alytus High School in Lithuania

Expand on the Model set up by Hartford Hospital and Estonia –

Collaboration has been established between…. Planning –Visit to Lithuania – Collaboration with:

Health Care Government Education

 Establishment of contacts with Ministry of Economy in: Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia

Establishment of contacts with Economic Development Agencies in all 3 Baltic Countries

Vilnius Riga Talinn

Upcoming events and activities:

BALTNET Business Event Attendees: Counsels from Lithuania, Estonia

and Latvia Attract Business Partners from Connecticut

and the Baltic Region Increase visibility of BALTNET

Establish Membership in Chambers of Commerce in: Lithuania, Latvia Estonia

 

Collaboration agreements:

CEENET - Central Eastern European Network

Quinnipiac University Jewish Federation BEACON - Biomedical Engineering Alliance &

Consortium World Affairs Council MetroHartford Alliance

Working together at MEDI 08

Previous Projects: Follow-up on:

Collaboration with Laboratory of Biomaterials. Dr. Liga Berezina Center of Technology and Innovations in Riga. Dr. Janis

Spigulis

Re-establishment of contacts with Latvian-American Chamber of Commerce in Riga

Establishment of contacts with Estonian-American Chamber of Commerce in Talinn

Establishment of contacts with Lithuanian-American Chamber of Commerce in Vilnius

BALTNET Membership at Chambers of Commerce in Baltics

Establishment of contacts Vilnius University, Lithuania.

Previous Projects and Activities in Progress:

DISCUSSIONS-MEETINGS:

Dr. Chris Niekrash - in April, 2012 to follow-up on: Research based project from School of Dental Medicine in Kaunas Scientific publication on polyglycans use in patients with periodontitis for

treatment and prevention

Dr. B. Koeppen – in May 2012 to explore collaboration between Quinnipiac University and academic institutions in Lithuania - School of Medicine in Kaunas and Vilnius University

Interim Head of Health Center Bruce Liang - Academic Deans of School of Medicine and School of Dental Medicine – in May, 2012

Planning Visit - Lithuania and the Baltics Collaboration between University of Connecticut Health Center and

Latvia/Riga Follow up on activities based ion most recent trip to Lithuania,

Summer 2013

Other areas of identification:

Number of Lithuanians-Estonians-Latvians in CT – Communities, businesses and STATISTICS

Number of Lithuanians-Estonians-Latvians in New England – Communities, businesses and STATISTICS

Fringe Benefit – Tourism: Exploratory - Visiting trips to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia Bringing family members to Connecticut/New England Baltic region Churches in Connecticut/New England STATISTICS

Cultural Centers Strengthen Communities

Collaboration with Business Schools (UCONN, QU, HU and others). Collaboration with Schools of Pharmacy (UCONN, USJ and others).

Anti-Terorism/Defense System Model in Connecticut and Baltics

Representation Representation of Academic institutions in USA

and in Baltic countries (Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia) and in New England.

USA: UCONN Quinnipiac University of Saint Joseph MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) Others

Baltics

Benefit for Hartford, State of CT and NE region Benefits to the State of Connecticut

Increase visibility Advertise the value of doing business in CT Build long lasting relationships between the Baltic Region and Connecticut

Jobs – Improve the creation of new jobs by promoting the establishment of new businesses or joined ventures

Reach for descendants from Baltic Countries - Generations living/working in Connecticut DEMOGRAPHICS/STATISTICS

Baltic businesses established in Connecticut – How many? – description STATISTICS

Support Medical personnel coming into Connecticut Simulation Lab Fellowships Workshops

Need for Funds and Support:

General BENEFITS : Increase visibility of Connecticut and New England Increase Employment in Connecticut and New England by:

facilitating partnership and attracting investors promoting new opportunities for business and joint ventures to be

established in NE.

GOAL: Maintain a Business Bridge between the Baltic Region and Connecticut/New England

FUNDING : Executive and Administrative Personnel Support for personnel working on identification of resources for seminars, conferences, business

events Support for events and activities related to:

Business Matching Advertisement of opportunities in CT and NE

Funding Needs Administrative Personnel – required to bring BALTNET to the next level. We need to employ a dedicated individual to

coordinate what has been accomplished already and to advance the mission, escalating the business bridge.

Planning – Increase the visibility and knowledge of the “new”

Baltic Region Design and printing of materials

Increase cultural connections Schedule regular events for celebration of cultural

achievements in areas of business, trade or other professional fields (arts, music and etc.).

Other info?

Cultural: sites to visit:

Gate of Dawn

Shopping Center Vilnius

Recreation

Accommodations

Gate of DawnShopping Center Vilnius

HotelsVilnius

&Kaunas

Questions

Thank You~

Dr. Dalia GiedrimieneBALTNET

Baltic New England Network, Inc.