In June of this year we did a survey among 350 companies in Northrhine Westfalia, all of which have had a business presence in the US for at least 3 years. In particular the question was asked whether they presently see new potential for their business in the US and what role Washington as the nation's capital plays for them.

As to the background of these questions: three major events have taken place in the greater Washington area in 2008 (the crisis year) and 2009, the first "post-crisis year".

(1)   The failure of a great many US investment banks. Prior to this event, New York was the hub for international business and most major decisions in global business were made there. Now most of these investment banks are gone and it is no overstatement to say that many to most key business decisions are now being made in Washington, D.C. where the federal government is setting the rules for the new global economy.

(2)     The greater Washington, D.C. area itself has gone through major changes as well. To see this you only need to drive along the Washington beltway or look around when you go from Dulles airport to downtown Washington. Or just consider why Volkswagen and other big and small German companies are moving their US operations to Virginia.

(3)     There is also the "Obama effect". This is not a political movement, but rather the revival of good old American values such as transparency, communication and cooperation. It is the old "American way" of doing things: together rather than one person (or country) taking the lead and expecting everyone else to follow. And rather than people keeping opinions to themselves, they are discussing these with friends, colleagues, even political opponents. The US has become a "positive thinking" country again -- and Washington, D.C. is taking the lead.

In summary, Washington is no longer just a political center for the world, but has also become an economic power house for the US and beyond.

Back to the survey mentioned above. On the positive side, about 25% of the respondents said that they see potential for their business in the US and consider Washington an important place to network. On the other hand, however, about 75% did not have this realization. You may decide for yourself to which group your company belongs and what you want to do about it. But one thing is certain, the US government has become an opinion leader in almost all key global subjects – with "renewable energy" being just one example for the post-2009 world. There is currently a window of opportunity for building a strategic network for your company. But do not wait too long. The window may close sooner than you think and those who miss this opportunity could have a more difficult time getting into the most effective networks later on.