Successful Dutch Cyber Mission to Georgia and Texas in United States

Earlier this month as part of a trade mission to the United States, a delegation of seven Dutch cybersecurity companies traveled across the country to meet with U.S. stakeholders. The aim of the mission was to foster collaboration and innovation between the Netherlands and the United States, while discussing new challenges and pathways in cybersecurity. This mission is part of the Partners for International Business (PIB) initiative and was organised by RVO (Netherlands Enterprise Agency), InnovationQuarter, and Security Delta (HSD).

The mission started in Atlanta, Georgia, where participants had the opportunity to explore the region’s growing cybersecurity environment. The first stop was the Metro Atlanta Chamber, where an introduction to the city’s region was given, followed by a roundtable session with FinTech Atlanta. The delegation then visited Tech Square ATL, where they gained insights about Georgia Institute of Technology and ATDC (Advanced Technology Development Center).

The afternoon was dedicated to addressing the challenges on securing critical infrastructure. A visit to the cybersecurity team at MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority), focused on securing public transportation networks against cyber risks. The day concluded with a networking event at Microsoft, where participants had the opportunity to network and explore potential partnerships and collaborations.

On the second day, the focus on critical infrastructure continued as the mission shifted to Atlanta Tech Village, where a roundtable discussion took place with representatives from Palo Alto Networks, Truist, and K-12 Data Solutions. During this day, the delegation furthermore took part in discussions with the cyber teams at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and Norfolk Southern Railway, focusing on their efforts to safeguard aviation and rail transport systems from cyber threats.

Cybersecurity in Texas: exploring key sectors

After wrapping up in Atlanta, the delegation moved to Houston and Dallas, exploring cybersecurity across key sectors such as energy, healthcare, finance, and local government. The first day kicked off with a visit to the NBSO-Texas office, where Shell’s cybersecurity defense strategies were explored, followed by a tour of Port San Antonio, a former U.S. Army base transformed into a tech hub. The last stop of the day was an interesting visit to the Texas Medical Center, gaining insights into the operations of one of the world’s leading health institutions.

On the second day, the team connected with Cyber Houston and the Texas Bankers Association to discuss cybersecurity challenges and solutions, before heading to BP to learn about their efforts in securing energy operations. The day ended with a visit to Harris County, where the delegation gained a deeper understanding of their critical role in public safety and security.

The final stop of this mission took place in Dallas, where a roundtable discussion was hosted by Sander Swinkels and Remco Verhoef. The session focused on securing legacy OT systems with advanced data fusion techniques and how aXite Security Tools is playing a key role in leveraging data for proactive cybersecurity measures.

Strengthening international collaboration for the future

This trade mission to the United States fostered collaboration between Dutch cybersecurity companies and U.S. stakeholders, highlighting the importance of international trade relations in countering the evolving challenges of cybersecurity. From critical infrastructure in Atlanta, to key sectors in Texas, the mission provided insightful discussions, innovative solutions, and new pathways for collaboration.

Participating companies:
aXite Security Tools • DTACT • EclecticIQ • Hadrian • ON2IT Cybersecurity • Radically Open Security • ubiqu

Partner organisations:
Netherlands Enterprise Agency • NBSO-Texas • Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the USA • Consulate General of the Netherlands in Atlanta • Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Miami • Trade and Innovate NL