Clarkesmith International is a leader in international business development, with a focus on the channel between North America, Europe, and the rapidly-expanding markets in the Gulf region of the Middle East. The partners have worked with hundreds of businesses from diverse backgrounds since 1990. We have carried out projects in more than 30 countries and speak English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish fluently. Our networks, market knowledge, and hands- on approach to projects ensure that every client is offered a unique solution, delivering results on time and within budget. Kara Hordlow Smith, co-founder, specializes in economic development strategy for public sector organizations, and international business development research and strategy for private sector clients. She advises and assists North American companies expanding into Europe and the Gulf States of the Middle East, and runs events showcasing companies and locations in new markets. Kara has lived and worked throughout Europe and the Middle East since 1997. She holds a Bachelor's Degree with honors from Middlebury Collge, Vermont, USA and a Master's Degree in International Affairs from The George Washington University, DC, USA. Kara is certified in Economic Development Finance by the National Development Council. Kate Clarke, co-founder, is an Irish citizen whose career path has brought her to Argentina, Australia, the Middle East and the US as well as Europe. Based in The Netherlands for the last 10 years, she specializes in investment attraction and partnering for international clients. While in Argentina (1994-2001), Kate founded a local non-profit organization to support literacy in low-income neighborhoods; this program is still in operations and enjoys success with Kate's continuing support in a Board capacity. Why sand drivers? Our business is about helping you navigate new markets, and we know that the path to success is different for each company. We use the metaphor of a sand driver crossing the desert with no roads or maps, who must be alert to changes, responsive to the environment at that moment, and able to chart the best course for the given destination. This is our expertise, and what we enjoy doing on a customized basis for each client. |
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