Leila Haugas – Export Mentor & International Growth Strategist
About Leila
Leila Haugas is a co-founder of EYBA (Expand Your Business Abroad) and a mentor in international business development whose mission is to help companies enter foreign markets systematically, purposefully, and boldly.
Over the past decade, Leila has guided hundreds of companies in export strategy, market selection, partner discovery, and B2B marketing and sales — both in Estonia and abroad. Her work is rooted in learning by doing, empowering companies to move from ideas to measurable results with confidence and speed.
Leila’s experience spans 50+ international markets — from the U.S. and Japan to Europe and the Middle East. She understands the challenges companies face when scaling internationally: small budgets, cultural barriers, localization needs, and team limitations.
Her approach bridges strategic clarity with practical execution. She helps businesses define their “why,” build clear export systems, and achieve global growth without unnecessary complexity.
Currently, Leila continues her academic journey through doctoral research focused on profitable market validation and export scalability.
Expertise & Strengths
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Strategic market entry and international growth planning
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Cross-cultural business communication and negotiations
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Experience from 50+ diverse global markets
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Building and leading export teams
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Partner and distributor network development
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Export mentoring for SME leaders and teams
“Every company — regardless of size or industry — can grow internationally when courage meets a clear plan.”
Highlights
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15+ years in international trade and export development
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Supported 500+ businesses through EYBA and partner programs
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Speaker and trainer for Startup Estonia, EAS, Chamber of Commerce, and AKIS programs
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Has represented companies at 50+ international trade fairs worldwide