Beyond Borders

Event Description

This is not another generic market overview. It’s a grounded, fact-based session for women founders and CEOs who are exploring how to expand internationally — and want the truth about what it takes.

Together with the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), we’ll unpack the realities of doing business in Italy — what’s working, where the opportunities are, and what to consider before taking the next step.

From manufacturing and medical devices to technology, fashion, and green innovation, you’ll hear directly from experts about Italy’s strengths, incentives, and business culture — so you can make informed decisions about growth.

Who this is for?

This session is designed for women founders and CEOs who are:

• Considering expansion into Europe.

• Curious about how Italy supports business investment and innovation.

• Leading companies in tech, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, fashion, food, or impact sectors.

• No prior export experience is required — just an interest in understanding what’s possible.

What We’ll Explore Together

• The health and competitiveness of key Italian industries.

• Why Italy is positioning itself as a global hub for innovation and sustainable manufacturing.

• The pathways and incentives available for international businesses.

• What the Italian Trade Agency and its partners can do to support expansion.

• Cultural realities: how women-led businesses are received in Italy, and what to expect.

You’ll have the chance to ask questions and hear firsthand insights from ITA’s inward investment specialists.

What You’ll Walk Away With 

You’ll leave this session with:

• A factual overview of Italy’s economic and sector strengths.

• Clarity on incentives and support available to international businesses.

• Insights into navigating cultural and practical challenges for women entrepreneurs.

• A network connection with ITA Sydney and Funding4Growth for follow-up support.

 Secure your spot now and take the first step towards making your business expansion process easier. Enjoyable even. 

Meet Your co-Host:
Lisa Erhart

Author of Advanced Grant Writing for Female Founders and Founder of Funding4Growth

Lisa began her funding journey with a single $10,000 grant—and went on to secure over $4.2 million. As an active assessor for government and private funding programs, she’s reviewed more than $50 million in application submissions and knows exactly what makes an application stand out—or fall short.

Driven by a mission to close the funding gap for diverse founders, Lisa is focused on improving both the quality and outcomes of applications seeking large scale grant funding.

Today, Lisa’s focus extends beyond funding readiness to international expansion, helping women-led businesses understand new markets, navigate incentive frameworks, and identify opportunities for growth across Europe and beyond.

Newsletter Article

 Italy Calls

Expanding internationally isn’t just about registering a company. Founders should:

• Understand the landscape. Obtain ITA’s Doing Business in Italy guide. Map regulatory frameworks, tax rules, and structures.

To read the full article >> Click Here

Acknowledgment of the traditional owners of the country in which we will meet. 

In hosting this event, we are mindful that we do so on the ancestral lands of the First Nations People of Australia. In the spirit of appreciation, I pay my respects to the Gadigal peoples, as the Traditional Custodians of this land, and honour their enduring connections to the land, sea, and community.