U.S.–Saudi Business Opportunities Forum

Our Role

JT was selected by the U.S.-Saudi Arabian Business Council (USSABC) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) to serve as overall project coordinator for the inaugural U.S.–Saudi Business Opportunities Forum, an event aimed at highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing role in global financial and economic issues. Our team handled multiple facets of this landmark event. We developed a website to streamline registration and collect valuable data for the forum organizers, drafted the run of show and script, and designed eye-catching credentials and signage with a dynamic logo. We coordinated all transportation and event logistics for the two-day conference, evening dinner and special screening of a 3-D film on Saudi Arabia. JT also secured local and national media coverage.

The Challenge

The delegation of more than 200 Saudi Arabian business leaders traveled to the U.S. with the expectation of attending a high-level, substantive, networking forum that would allow them to develop joint-business opportunities. Additionally, government officials traveling as part of the delegation sought to leverage their visit as an opportunity to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.

The Solution

JT worked extensively with USSABC and CIT to identify and facilitate innovative networking opportunities for attendees. We provided handheld devices that attendees used to locate others and exchange contact information. We also developed a program with key speakers from a wide-variety of appropriate industries.

JT also developed a schedule of outreach events for members of the Saudi delegation and spouses that illustrated some of Chicago’s many business, education and community exchange opportunities. This included a visit to the floors of the Chicago Board of Trade and Chicago Mercantile Exchange, an engaging interfaith breakfast with local religious leaders, and a roundtable discussion with female business and civic leaders. Events showcasing education included a visit to one of the nation’s premier high school after school programs, a trip with Mayor Daley to meet students enrolled in Chicago’s signature high school Arab Language Program, and a dialogue with students enrolled at the University of Chicago’s International House. JT staff coordinated all events and accompanied members of the Saudi delegation during the outreach activities.

The Results

The Forum drew senior officials and business leaders from throughout the United States and Saudi Arabia interested in increased economic collaboration between the two nations. More than 200 Saudi corporate and civic leaders, including ministers of petroleum, commerce and industry, finance and education, traveled to Chicago for the event, and approximately 1,000 individuals attended the two-day conference. Attendees and participants were engaged by the substantive content offered over the two days, and the public outreach component allowed members of the delegation to make tangible connections with Chicago’s most important and prestigious business, educational and civic institutions and organizations. From business connectivity to creating a better cultural understanding, the Forum, as well as the events and outreach opportunities associated with it, opened doors for a better exchange between the U.S., and Chicago in particular, and Saudi Arabia.