Estonia opened new honorary consulates in Portland and San Francisco to help Estonian companies and citizens, and contribute to cooperation between Estonia and the United States.
Mariin Ratnik, Undersecretary for Economic and Development Affairs, said both Portland and San Francisco are important hubs for Estonian companies. “Whereas the San Francisco Bay area is famous as a business centre, Portland is potentially just as important for us. More than 1200 tech companies are based here, the largest local employer is Intel, and Nike’s headquarters are located here,” Ratnik said, illustrating the importance of the region.
“Estonia and San Francisco are both defined by bold ideas and a drive to shape the future through digital innovation. I am honored to help bridge these two dynamic innovation hubs, creating opportunities for collaboration that inspire progress on a global scale.”
Christine Marie Morgan, Estonia’s new honorary consul in San Francisco
“San Francisco exemplifies the spirit of innovation and forward-thinking that matches Estonia’s digital-first vision and global aspirations,” noted Ratnik. “Located between Seattle and San Francisco, Portland is used by many companies as a base to cover north-western US, as operating expenses can be lower here and the business environment is more open to newcomers,” Ratnik added.
Two new honorary consuls in the US
There is a large Estonian community on the US West Coast and Estonians who are long-term US residents can contact honorary consuls for assistance if necessary – both when receiving new identity documents or when they have lost their documents.
“Two honorary consuls with a notable business network and background are a great boon to our companies when it comes to boosting relations. For example, they can provide advice and assistance in making contacts,” the undersecretary said, adding that honorary consuls would also help Estonians who live in the United States or visit the region.
Estonia’s new honorary consul in Portland is Skip Newberry, who was a businessman and economic advisor to the mayor of Portland and is currently the President of the Technology Association of Oregon. He is an active advocate on technology, business, and private and public sector cooperation. “I am deeply honored to represent Estonia in Portland. The country’s pioneering approach to digital transformation and innovation aligns with many of the ongoing efforts in Portland. I look forward to building partnerships and making connections that strengthen our mutual interests,” Newberry said.
Estonia’s new honorary consul in San Francisco is Christine Marie Morgan, who has an Estonian background. She is a partner and an intellectual property and commercial trial lawyer at Reed Smith. “Estonia and San Francisco are both defined by bold ideas and a drive to shape the future through digital innovation. I am honored to help bridge these two dynamic innovation hubs, creating opportunities for collaboration that inspire progress on a global scale,” Morgan said.
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Mariin Ratnik thanked all new and existing honorary consuls for their excellent work and the time they dedicate to supporting Estonian companies, helping citizens, and reinforcing ties between the two countries. Estonia now has a total of 17 honorary consulates in the United States.
Estonia is a global leader in digital innovation. Known for its e-governance, the world’s first e-residency program, and boasting the highest number of startups per capita, Estonia offers a hassle-free and competitive business environment for global businesses.
Known as the “Unicorn Nation,” Estonia boasts the highest number of unicorn companies per capita in Europe. The country is recognized as the world’s most advanced digital society, offering 100% of its public services online. Entrepreneurs can establish a company in just 15 minutes and file taxes in under three minutes. This digitally advanced ecosystem has propelled Estonian companies to export products and services to over 120 countries worldwide.
Estonia, strategically located as a gateway to the EU, counts the U.S. as its 11th largest export partner. Between October 2023 and October 2024, trade between the United States and Estonia experienced significant growth. U.S. exports to Estonia increased by 63.5% while U.S. imports from Estonia grew by 121%. With its advanced digital economy and strong trade ties, Estonia offers American businesses unique opportunities to collaborate and access the broader European market.
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