New UK Investor Network Boosts British Biz in LA
The British Consulate General in Los Angeles has launched the UK Investor Network Southern California (UK IN SoCal) to back UK firms in the greater LA area. This new network aims to help British companies grow and thrive on the West Coast.
UK Firms Thrive in California
According to the third annual UK Foreign Direct Investment report by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation and the British Consulate, over 2,300 UK businesses operate in California, supporting nearly 100,000 jobs. More than half of these roles—around 52,500—are right here in the greater LA region.
What UK IN SoCal Offers
The network provides a clutch of benefits to members, including:
- Connections and networking with peers and partners
- Soft landing support and mentorship for newcomers
- Insights on navigating US business regulations
- Boosting the profile of British business across LA
The group will host events all year round, offering expert advice and opening doors to new opportunities. Big names like Andy Bird, Pearson’s CEO, are on board as mentors, alongside service giants like HSBC, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, and RSM.
Power Partners Join Forces
UK IN SoCal members get exclusive access to offers from global flexible workspace provider WeWork. WeWork’s ready-to-go workspaces provide a perfect base for UK firms setting up shop in LA.
Leaders Speak Up
“The US is the UK’s top spot for outward investment, creating benefits on both sides of the pond,” said Emma Wade-Smith, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for North America. “This new network will harness the expertise of seasoned UK investors in Southern California to help newcomers hit the ground running.”
Emily Cloke, HM Consul General in Los Angeles, added: “UK IN SoCal will build on the UK’s standing as the second largest foreign direct investor in California. It’s all about helping companies share knowledge, succeed in California, and deepen the bonds between our business communities.”
Andy Bird, CEO of Pearson and a business mentor for UK IN SoCal, said: “Southern California is vibrant and diverse but can be tricky to navigate. I’m proud to help UK companies find their feet here, just as I did 20 years ago.”
Elton Kwok, WeWork’s Territory VP, said: “WeWork is excited to partner with the British Consulate to support UK companies growing in Southern California. Our turnkey workspaces make launching in the US as smooth as possible.”
