Pivotal to this pilot study is the identification and portrait of 45 trailblazers of the US cleantech industry, representing four niche areas: electric vehicles, biofuels, the smart grid, and smart buildings. Each were chosen for their high growth and matchmaking potential with Danish partners.

“Cleantech opportunities are global opportunities, and to capitalize we need more projects like this to facilitate enduring international partnerships between like-minded governments, universities, research institutions, professional firms, innovative enterprises and many other stakeholders.”
Frants Lasse Becker, Goodwill Ambassador of  Copenhagen
 
What emerges from this snapshot of the US cleantech industry is the belief that while disruptive science-based innovation is essential to the transition to a low carbon economy, so are ‘low-tech’ solutions that use readily available materials and techniques and can therefore be deployed immediately.

"Since 90% of the $3.000 billion global cleantech market lies beyond US borders, US cleantech companies are actively seeking opportunities overseas. It is in the strategic interest of the US and Europe to collaborate in pursuit of international opportunities. In Europe, Denmark is widely regarded as the partner of choice."
Professor Giles Jackson, Byrd School of Business
 
The knowledge contained in the report represents the foundation, the first step on a journey in which Danish and American interests come together to create the next generation of world-class green technologies. In fact, because of this project, several US firms have already taken part in or are planning customized “energy tours” in Denmark, paving the way for a range of commercial possibilities including direct investment, strategic alliances, collaborative R&D and joint ventures.