The rise of blockchain technology has sparked worldwide interest in digital assets and decentralized applications, with the US and European markets leading the charge.
In contrast, Asia has seen slower Web3 development, pushing ambitious Taiwanese startups to turn their sights toward global opportunities.
That’s exactly why, for the fourth consecutive year, we’ve organized the IP2 Scale Out Program, aimed at helping Taiwanese startups ready themselves to enter the East Coast market, particularly New York.
In this interview, Vera Wu, COO of Numbers Protocol, shares her insights on the future of blockchain and strategies for entering the US and European markets.
Vera Wu emphasizes that a soft-landing is a critical first step for startups looking to expand internationally. It helps companies break down barriers in unfamiliar markets by building local business connections and meeting potential clients, laying the groundwork for long-term goals.
For Numbers Protocol, participating in this program was less about immediate results and more about gaining a deeper understanding of the US market. It offered a chance to engage with local venture capitalists, adjust and expand their business model, and meet clients in person—paving the way for future market entry strategies.
The US and Europe Still Lead in Blockchain Development
According to Wu, even though global demand for blockchain technology is growing, the US and Europe remain at the forefront, while Web3 development in Asia is still in its early stages.
“Our goal was to build connections in New York and see if we could establish some meaningful business relationships,” Wu explains.
The US market, in particular, has already reached a mature stage in blockchain adoption, with higher acceptance and demand for new technologies. This makes it a promising environment for Numbers Protocol to grow and thrive.
She adds, “The one-month program is short, and it’s unrealistic to expect signed deals right away. But for us, these business interactions are long-term opportunities. We’ve connected with venture capitalists we previously only met over video calls. Following up with them after returning to Taiwan will be crucial for expanding our business in the future.”
Soft-Landing Strategy: A Launchpad for International Expansion
When discussing how to successfully enter a new market, Wu highlights the benefits of the accelerator’s soft-landing approach:
“This soft-landing gave us a real opportunity to establish a presence in the US and directly connect with local business partners and investors.”
For companies looking to break into international markets, this gradual adaptation process is essential. It allows startups to understand local market dynamics and culture, identify localized needs, and build initial networks. This comprehensive evaluation helps adjust products and business strategies before fully committing to a new market.
Entering competitive markets like New York can be daunting, but using this “transition period” to adjust strategies and build resilience significantly reduces the risk of failure.
Building Strong Local VC Connections: The Biggest Win
Wu points out that establishing relationships with local contacts in New York isn’t just about securing funding—it’s also a critical way to understand market demands and expand business operations.
“This experience was incredibly valuable. We had the chance to engage in in-depth discussions with local investors, advisors, and industry experts, gaining insights into their perspectives on blockchain and their specific tech needs.”
These professional insights from the US markets have been instrumental in refining Numbers Protocol's technology direction and product strategy.
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