How to Expand Your UK Startup to the US: A Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve nailed product-market fit in the UK, the buzz is growing, and you’re now eyeing the US market. First off – huge congrats! Most startups don’t even get that far. Now comes the real adventure: expanding your business across the Atlantic.
At Wellington and Wall, we’ve worked with dozens of founders navigating this exact leap – from Shoreditch to SoHo (NYC, not London!), and I can tell you: it’s exciting, it’s fast-paced, and yes, it’s full of landmines if you don’t plan it right.
Let us walk you through the no-BS, founder-friendly roadmap we swear by at Wellington & Wall.
1. Start With “Why the US?” (and Be Brutally Honest)
Before you book a flight to JFK or hire that Brooklyn-based growth marketer, ask yourself:
Why now? Why the US? What are you trying to achieve in the next 12 months?
The US isn’t just “one big market.” California and New York are like different countries. Boston talks innovation. Texas loves scale. Pick your battleground with care.
✔️ Tip: Do a mini market validation sprint. 20 cold emails. 5 calls. See what sticks.
2. Incorporate the Right Way (No, It’s Not Just Delaware)
Yes, Delaware C-Corps are standard. But how you structure your US entity matters more than most founders think. Will it own your IP? Will it hire staff? Will your UK parent invoice it?
Screw this up, and you could be double-taxed or scare off investors.
We help startups structure this from day one, with accountants who’ve seen both HMRC and IRS nightmares.
3. Tax: Prepare to Be Confused (But Don’t Panic)
US tax law is a labyrinth. We’re talking federal + state + sometimes local taxes.
Also: sales tax ≠ VAT. And yes, the IRS cares if you have a Stripe account here.
What we usually do is create a “tax hygiene plan”: clear thresholds, triggers, and filings. It keeps you compliant without overwhelming your lean team.
✔️ Hot tip: Don’t DIY this. Seriously.
4. Banking and Payments: Surprisingly Political
You’d think opening a bank account would be easy. Spoiler Alert: it’s not. Most US banks want a physical presence, a tax ID, sometimes even a local officer.
We’ve built relationships with banking partners who understand foreign founders. And no, Revolut won’t cut it if you’re paying US employees or vendors.
5. Transatlantic Culture Shock Is Real, Even in Business
The US buyer expects a different tone. UK modesty = underselling.
In pitch decks, marketing, even pricing, you’ll need to go a little more…American.
That doesn’t mean losing your brand. It means translating it without losing the essence. That’s where brand localization and content strategy come in.
6. Build Your Local Dream Team (Or Don’t Yet)
You don’t need to hire a US team on Day 1. But if you do, make sure you understand employment law. At-will employment, state-by-state regulations, healthcare obligations – it’s not like the UK.
We help our clients onboard through partners or EOR platforms until they’re ready to scale for real.
7. Find Your Local Champions
Your first few wins will come not from ads, but from referrals, intros, and partners. Whether it’s lawyers, investors, or that one amazing B2B agency in Austin, local knowledge is leverage.
This is where Wellington & Wall really shines. We’re not just consultants – we’re matchmakers. We introduce you to the right people, not just send you checklists.
Enter This New Chapter with the Right Ammunition
The US isn’t just another sales territory. It’s a whole new mindset, team, and way of working.
But you don’t have to do it alone.
If you’re a UK founder reading this with a mix of excitement and fear – you’re not alone.
That’s exactly why we built Wellington & Wall.
Let’s talk when you’re ready. The coffee’s on us (or maybe iced matcha, if you’re already in Brooklyn).
