Slovenia Strengthens Ties with US Through Business and Basketball Diplomacy

Slovenia is intensifying its promotional efforts in the US with a strategic visit by its business and development delegation to Dallas and Austin in the upcoming week. The agenda includes hosting business forums aimed at nurturing and expanding business relationships, alongside engagements with American companies and institutions. Highlighting this visit is the 'I Feel Slovenia Night' at a Dallas Mavericks basketball game, showcasing Slovenia as an alluring tourist destination with a strong sporting spirit.

The event, orchestrated by the Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport, SPIRIT Slovenia, and other Slovenian governmental bodies, underlines the commitment to strengthen economic and touristic ties with the US. Slovenia views the US as a crucial market for promoting its products and services and attracting significant investments. In parallel, the US is a key distant market for Slovenia’s burgeoning tourism sector.

Texas, with its 30 million residents and robust economy, represents a significant opportunity for Slovenia's increased visibility. Dallas, home to Slovenian basketball prodigy Luka Dončić, and Austin, a hub of cultural and economic activities with recent shifts of major tech companies, are focal points of this initiative. These cities offer promising gateways for Slovenian business and tourism expansion.

MSc. Maja Pak Olaj from STB emphasized the targeted approach towards American tourists, aiming for unique and personalized experiences. The rise in American tourists to Slovenia in 2023 reflects the effectiveness of these strategies. Events like 'I Feel Slovenia Night', coupled with collaborations with prominent athletes and organizations, significantly enhance Slovenia’s global image as an active and hospitable destination.

Rok Capl of SPIRIT Slovenia views this visit as a continuation of Slovenia's heightened promotional activities in the US, aiming to establish Slovenia as a key business destination. This initiative is expected to open doors for increased cooperation between Slovenian and American companies.

MSc. Ajša Vodnik of AmCham Slovenia highlighted the potential for deepening business ties between Slovenia and Texas, inspired by Luka Dončić's popularity. This partnership is crucial for presenting Slovenia as an attractive investment location and a gateway to Europe. The delegation will engage in a series of promotional activities in Dallas and Austin, linking economy, tourism, and sports.

The 'I Feel Slovenia Night', a collaboration between the Slovenian Tourist Board and the Dallas Mavericks, will immerse the audience in Slovenian culture, enhancing Slovenia's appeal in the US as a diverse and vibrant destination for business, tourism, and sports.