Anne Butterly at the USA–EU Transatlantic Business Summit

Anne Butterly’s participation in the USA–EU Transatlantic Business Summit marked an important moment for Easydry this February, as our Founder & CEO represented the company in Brussels during a key session focused on women-led enterprises and cross-border growth.

You can explore the full summit agenda here.

Anne joined the panel discussion:

Women-Led Enterprises — Building Bridges, Shaping Policy, Scaling Impact

The session examined how female-founded businesses can expand across borders, alongside the policy and investment conditions required to support that growth. Access to finance, regulatory alignment and stronger EU–US cooperation were central to the conversation.

The discussion was chaired by Claire Munck, CEO of BeAngels. Anne spoke alongside Monika Stanisheva, President of EU Female Founders and Chair of the Board at Dir.bg; Eliza Kruczkowska, Managing Director of Think Tank The Company; and Katarina Wallin Bureau, General Manager for Strategic Relations and European Government Affairs at Microsoft. Collectively, the panel reflected experience across entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, investment networks and policy development.

Two Decades of Easydry Innovation

Easydry was founded in Ireland more than 20 years ago. Since then, the business has grown into an international company exporting to 25 countries.

Expansion into the UK formed a key stage of that journey. From there, the brand continued to develop across Europe, Australia and the United States.

In 2022, Easydry became the world’s first disposable, 100% compostable towel company to achieve B Corp Certification. Our focus remains on combining operational efficiency with measurable environmental responsibility.

You can read more about our sustainability commitments here.

Today, the Easydry range includes towels in multiple sizes, recyclable technical capes and fully compostable gowns. These solutions are designed to support professional salons and businesses seeking streamlined, resource-efficient systems.

Key Themes from the Women-Led Enterprises Session | Anne Butterly USA–EU Transatlantic Business Summit

Several themes discussed during the panel closely reflect Easydry’s own international experience.

Access to Capital

The funding gap affecting women-led businesses remains a pressing issue. The panel highlighted the importance of clearer investment routes and greater diversity within decision-making environments.

Anne addressed the practical difficulties SMEs can face when applying for funding. For early-stage founders, identifying available supports and understanding application processes can prove complex.

Scaling Within Europe

Regulatory variation, language differences and fragmented markets can make EU expansion challenging. Thorough preparation and detailed market knowledge are essential.

Easydry’s growth across multiple territories demonstrates the importance of research-led entry strategies and adaptability.

Mentorship and Entrepreneurial Ecosystems

Mentorship featured strongly throughout the discussion. Access to experienced advisers can provide perspective during periods of growth and transition.

Anne reflected on the benefit of seeking guidance from those who had previously scaled internationally. Strong support networks continue to play a vital role in sustainable expansion.

Competitiveness and Economic Contribution

The session also reinforced that strengthening women-led enterprise contributes directly to broader economic resilience and competitiveness across Europe and the United States.

Transatlantic Cooperation in Practice | Anne Butterly USA–EU Transatlantic Business Summit

Organised by the Polish & American Women’s Entrepreneurship initiative, the Summit aimed to move beyond dialogue and support practical cooperation between EU and US stakeholders.

The event was held at Egmont Palace in Brussels and brought together leaders from Europe, the United States and Africa. Wider discussions covered trade, energy, industrial strategy and economic security, with the Women-Led Enterprises panel focusing specifically on scale, finance and policy clarity.

Easydry’s Ongoing International Focus

Anne’s involvement reflects Easydry’s long-standing commitment to responsible growth and international collaboration.

With more than two decades in operation and distribution across 25 countries, Easydry continues to invest in innovation, sustainability and long-term partnerships.

As global markets shift, constructive engagement between policymakers and businesses remains important. Participation in forums such as the USA–EU Transatlantic Business Summit supports clearer pathways for companies operating across borders.