Soft Landing, Strong Start: How the Washington, DC Global Soft Landing Program Supports International Growth
In April 2024, Washington, DC launched the Global Soft Landing Program, which was developed through a strategic partnership between the Washington DC Economic Partnership (WDCEP), the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED), the Golden Triangle BID, the Penn West Equity and Innovation District, The George Washington University, and The Build Fellowship by Open Avenues.[1] The program features two distinct pathways designed to simplify entry into the U.S. market through access to flexible, discounted office space and tailored immigration support.
Why Is This Program Important?
Expanding into a new market presents both opportunity and complexity. Program partners seek to reduce the friction international companies often face when entering the U.S. by offering logistical and legal support. Whether a company is looking to obtain a secure office space or a visa solution for its founder, this program provides direct support that addresses both issues.
The program offers two tracks tailored to the distinct needs of global businesses and entrepreneurs:
- Penn West Global Soft Landing Program
- GW x Penn West Global Build Fellowship
Penn West Global Soft Landing Program
The Penn West Global Soft Landing Program provides international businesses with flexible, discounted coworking space at Studio by Tishman Speyer, which offers proximity to the White House, George Washington University, and a network of global institutions.[2]
Benefits include:
- Prime Location – Situated near top-tier universities, policy makers, and international organizations
- Affordable Workspaces – 20 percent below market rent and 50 percent off setup fees, with a three-month minimum lease
- Networking Opportunities – Access to a strong local ecosystem of government, academic, and business partners
- Ongoing Guidance – Continued support from the city’s economic development team to help companies grow
Eligibility:
To qualify, companies must:
- Show interest in establishing a Washington, DC, presence within 12 months
- Commit to staffing at least one full-time employee on-site during participation
- Sign a minimum three-month lease agreement
- Demonstrate ability to cover the cost of the space
GW x Penn West Global Build Fellowship
The GW x Penn West Global Build Fellowship addresses one of the biggest challenges that international founders encounter: navigating the US immigration system.[3] In collaboration with The George Washington University and Open Avenues Foundation, this fellowship provides a cap-exempt H-1B visa pathway, which enables entrepreneurs to legally build their ventures in DC. Through this pathway, employers have the ability to sponsor H-1B visas without being subject to the annual cap of visas (85,000).[4]
Benefits include:
- Visa Access – A cap-exempt H-1B visa through a part-time university-affiliated role
- Market Entry Support – Enrollment in GW’s U.S. Market Discovery Program to help refine go-to-market strategies
- Premium Office Space – Discounted coworking access at Studio by Tishman Speyer
- Community Integration – Introductions to policy leaders, innovators, and support networks across DC
Eligibility:
Applicants must:
- Hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or equivalent education/work experience)
- Commit to contributing at least five hours per week toward GW’s educational mission
- Have sufficient financial resources (from a sponsor or the company) to cover the fellowship costs
Conclusion
The Washington, DC Global Soft Landing Program offers a unique opportunity for global businesses and entrepreneurs to tap into the U.S. market through two supportive, well-structured pathways. Whether your organization is looking for a strong physical presence or seeking an immigration solution for its leadership team, this initiative reduces barriers and creates opportunities for long-term growth in one of the world’s most influential cities.
At A&M, we help clients take full advantage of programs like these, from navigating incentive opportunities to structuring a successful market entry. If your organization is exploring U.S. expansion, our team can guide you through the process and ensure a strong start.
For more information or to discuss how A&M can support your growth, please contact an A&M representative. You can also subscribe to our Tax Compass: Credits and Incentives blog here.
[1]“Washington, DC Launches Comprehensive Global Soft Landing Program,” Washington DC Economic Partnership, April 24, 2024, https://wdcep.com/press-release/washington-dc-launches-comprehensive-global-soft-landing-program/
[2]“Penn West Global Soft Landing Program,” Washington DC Economic Partnership, accessed June 24, 2025, https://wdcep.com/penn-west-global-soft-landing-program/
[3]“The GWU Penn West Global Build Fellowship,” Penn West, accessed June 24, 2025, https://pennwest.buildfellowship.com/
[4]“H-1B Cap Season,” U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, accessed June 24, 2025, https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/h-1b-specialty-occupations/h-1b-cap-season
