Mission Statement

BCIU, a U.S. business association founded in 1955 at White House initiative, is dedicated to promoting dialogue and action between the business and government communities for the purpose of expanding international commerce.

Founding and History

The Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) was founded in 1955, at the initiative of President Eisenhower. Initially, BCIU focused on supporting U.S. business interests internationally by convening member company executives with newly confirmed U.S. Ambassadors in order to brief them on the problems facing their operations in the markets to which the ambassadors were accredited. Since that time, BCIU programs have expanded to include discussions not only with U.S. Ambassadors but also with other senior diplomatic and cabinet-level officials and heads of state serving the U.S. and foreign governments. Today, BCIU operates programs not only in New York, but also in Washington, D.C., Houston, other major cities in the United States, and London.

Activity Profile

BCIU programs are characterized by candid, off-the-record exchanges. The access, insights and information gained by member companies are vital tools for their success. Briefings take the form of roundtables, workshops, seminars and conferences. Altogether, BCIU organizes a variety of programs each year to support the international business interests of its members.