In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and cybersecurity, the decision of where to expand a business can be pivotal. Recently, a European tech company, Nunsys, headquartered in Spain, found its ideal location in Maryland. This choice reflects not just a strategic business move but also highlights the unique advantages that Maryland offers for international companies.
Nunsys specializes in providing cybersecurity services tailored for both information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) environments. Their expertise extends beyond mere protection of networking and cloud-based systems; they also safeguard the hardware and software that underpin critical infrastructure across various sectors, including healthcare, transportation, maritime, energy, and public services. This comprehensive approach positions Nunsys as a key player in the cybersecurity landscape.
So, what led Nunsys to choose Maryland as its U.S. base? A significant factor was the state’s Global Gateway Soft Landing Program. This initiative allows international companies to explore the U.S. market while minimizing risks associated with such a transition. Rafael Vidal, Nunsys’s chief of cybersecurity products and country manager for Nunsys USA, emphasized the program’s value, stating, “Its structure, mentorship, and network of contacts have allowed us to significantly accelerate our entry into the U.S. market.” This supportive environment has proven to be an exciting opportunity for Nunsys, and Rafael encourages other international firms to consider it as well.
In addition to the Global Gateway program, Nunsys chose to join the Maryland Innovation Center in Howard County. This decision was influenced by the region’s concentration of defense contractors, critical infrastructure operators, and federal agencies, along with its proximity to Washington, D.C. Rafael noted that Columbia, Maryland, offers a “highly business-friendly environment,” which has facilitated quick connections with potential partners and clients through the incubator.
Rafael expressed confidence in the decision, stating, “It was the ideal choice to support our entry into the U.S. market.” As Nunsys continues to grow, they plan to expand their team in Maryland, reflecting their commitment to establishing a strong presence in the region.
Since relocating, Nunsys has already made strides in building its U.S. presence. Rafael hired Brett Schwab, a lifelong Howard County resident he met through the Maryland Innovation Center, to assist with sales efforts. This local connection underscores the importance of community and networking in the business expansion process.
When comparing the business environments of Spain and Maryland, Rafael highlighted the strong defense-sector presence in both regions, which fosters investment in cybersecurity. He also noted cultural similarities that have eased the transition for Nunsys. “Maryland is a collaborative and straightforward environment, which has made the transition much easier,” he said. This collaborative spirit is essential for Nunsys as they actively seek technology partnerships in the U.S.
Rafael believes that Nunsys can bring significant value to Maryland’s cybersecurity ecosystem. He emphasized the importance of making cybersecurity accessible to decision-makers, stating, “We believe decision makers shouldn’t need a technical background to understand what’s happening on their OT networks.” The company aims to transform monitoring data into clear business contexts, enabling swift and confident risk decisions.
