How do I expand abroad as a startup?

For many start-ups, moving abroad is the next logical step: new markets, more customers, higher sales. But international expansion is not an easy step and harbours risks. If you want to go abroad successfully, you need to take a systematic approach.

Before you expand, clarify, which market is suitable for your product or service:

• • Market size and growth potential
  • Competitive situation
  • Purchasing power and customer behaviour
  • Cultural differences, language and local customs

Tip: Start with a country that is similar to your home market, before you enter more complex markets.

Many start-ups think: „You could always try it out.“ But going abroad is rarely as easy as it sounds.
The necessary Investment in time, capital and expertise is often massively underestimated.

Calculate before you start:

• • How much time do you really need for preparation, market research and realisation?

  • What costs are incurred for translations, legal advice, logistics or marketing?

  • What internal resources does the expansion tie up - and who takes care of it?

An honest assessment prevents nasty surprises and ensures that you start your international expansion with a realistic budget and clear priorities.

Not every business model works 1:1 internationally:

• • Prices and customers' willingness to pay
  • Delivery and logistics costs
  • Local laws and regulations
  • Sales and marketing channels

Example: An e-commerce start-up has to recalculate shipping and returns depending on the country.

• • Consider setting up a company in the target country or a local branch
  • Observe taxes, import/export regulations, labour law
  • Securing property rights (trademarks, patents) internationally
  • Tip: Early local consultants or lawyers integrate

Local expertise is crucial for market entry

• • Options:
    • Hire local employees
    • Use local partners, agencies or sales partners
    • Joint ventures with established companies

International expansion requires capital: marketing, personnel, logistics

• • Check financing options: Equity capital, subsidies, loans or investors
  • Calculate the Cash flow-Realistic demand, before you start

• • Start small with a pilot project or soft launch
  • Collect feedback, adapt product and marketing
  • Use digital channels for market tests before making large investments

• • As soon as the pilot market works, scale systematically
  • Standardise processes: Supply chain, marketing, customer service
  • Learn from experience in your first foreign market before you enter other countries

Start your international expansion well prepared: Download our Free checklist „Expanding your startup abroad“ and check step by step whether your startup is ready for the next market.

International expansion is an important Strategic step, which requires planning, capital and customisation. The key to success lies in Market analysis, local customisation, legal security and a competent team on site.

Tip: Start with a test market, learn from mistakes and then scale up systematically - this way you minimise risks and increase your chances of success.

Do you have an idea that you want to conquer the world with? Then apply now for the free open pitch and present it to us!