The UN’s AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva — and AIC Members Take Center Stage The American International Club of Geneva is proud to spotlight an exciting moment in the global innovation calendar: the AI for Good Global Summit (7–10 July 2026), the United Nations’ flagship event on artificial intelligence, hosted by the ITU in partnership with over 50 UN agencies. This year’s summit once again transforms Geneva into a global hub where policymakers, innovators, and entrepreneurs converge to explore how AI can address the world’s most pressing challenges—from healthcare and education to sustainability and digital governance. We are especially pleased to highlight that members of the AIC community are actively participating, including involvement with cutting‑edge demonstrations that exemplify innovation for social good. Among the most talked‑about innovations is the Ufotech “UFO” system—a unique AI‑enabled robotic networking platform that …
Here's what has happened in the first quarter of 2025 and what's to come! Dear AIC Members and Friends,As we settle into the rhythm of spring, we’re excited to share the latest from the American International Club of Geneva. Our community continues to thrive, fueled by inspiring initiatives, dynamic events, and the incredible spirit of our members.This edition brings both moments of celebration and reflection. From the success of our Thanksgiving Fundraising Dinner and the progress of the Civic Concerns Committee to preparations for our much-anticipated Charity Golf Tournament and 4th of July celebration, there’s plenty to look forward to. As we reflect on our vibrant community, we take a moment to honor the memory of a valued AIC member who recently passed away. Their presence and contributions left a lasting mark — a quiet reminder of the strength and spirit that define our community.In that …
Chinese Geo-economics and the Chinese Dream May 26, 2026 The American International Club recently welcomed Dr. Dominique Jolly, renowned business strategy expert, as part of its Professionals & Entrepreneurs series. The event was held at the American International Women’s Club office with 30+ attending.
Going to the World Cup in the United States? Traveling internationally can be stressful, especially when you arrive in the United States (U.S.) and find yourself pulled into secondary inspection by Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This process, while routine for CBP, can be intimidating, confusing and even anxiety-inducing for travelers. If you are traveling to the U.S. this summer, this article will help you know your rights and how to handle crossing the border calmly and strategically. What Is Secondary Inspection? When you enter the U.S., you first go through primary inspection, where CBP officers check your passport, visa and ask general questions. Most travelers pass through this phase quickly; however, if CBP needs more information or has concerns about your travel history, documents, or responses, you may be sent to secondary inspection. Secondary inspection is a more detailed …
U.S. Ambassador to France Meets the American Community in Nice On 19 May 2026, Ron Banks, President of the American International Club (AIC), attended a special reception in honor of U.S. Ambassador to France, Charles Kushner. The event was graciously hosted by the City of Nice and held at the magnificent Villa Masséna Museum, one of the city's most prestigious historic landmarks. Set amidst beautiful gardens overlooking the Promenade des Anglais, the venue provided an elegant backdrop for an evening dedicated to strengthening ties between the United States and France. The AIC was represented through its membership in the Association of American Clubs of Southern France, an organization that brings together American clubs and associations throughout the region. As the current Vice President of the Association, Ron Banks was invited to participate in the event alongside American community leaders, local …
AIC Apéros – Building Connections and Community The AIC Apéros continue to be one of the most valued and successful activities offered to our members throughout the year. These informal gatherings provide a welcoming environment where members, friends, and guests can meet, exchange ideas, strengthen professional and personal relationships, and enjoy the camaraderie that makes the AIC community so special. In Geneva, the AIC Apéros are traditionally held on the first Thursday of each month at a variety of popular venues across the city. During the first half of the year, members gathered at several excellent locations: January: Babbo Café in Eaux Vives February and March: Luigia Restaurant, Confederation Centre April: Rossini Café at Rive May and June: Chez Bacchus, at Rive The changing venues offer members the opportunity to experience different settings while maintaining the relaxed and friendly atmosphere …
The Best‑Kept Secret in IP: How U.S. Strategy Lets Innovators Have It All Thanks to strategies developed by one of our own, our club secretary, John Moetteli, an international IP attorney and Adjunct Professor teaching in the CAS Masters in Intellectual Property program of Zurich University (ZHAW), you do not have to accept the traditional assumption that innovators must choose between patent protection and trade secrecy. Instead, there exists a sophisticated, largely unknown U.S.-centric filing strategy that allows innovators to “have it all”: preserve trade secrets, retain patent rights, defer costs, and extend protection horizons. At its core, the strategy leverages three uniquely American mechanisms: non‑publication “Submarine” applications (only available for those who file first in the US), rolling provisional “mini‑Sub” filings, and late‑filed divisional design patents (“UFOs”, for Unidentifiable Filed Ornamentals). Together, these tools eliminate the forced trade-off between …
The AIC Webster Mentorship program is now in full swing, and we've crossed the halfway mark for this academic year. As a mentor, I've found the experience both rewarding and energizing.
The American International Club of Geneva was delighted to host a speaker's luncheon featuring Dr. David Chikvaidze, Vice President of Swiss Forum on International Affairs (FSPI) and former Chief of Staff to five Directors-General of the UN office at Geneva (UNOG). Dr. Chikvaidze gave a presentation on the very important and topical subject of "Managing a Change of Eras in an Age of Belligerent Uncertainty".
Event Summary: U.S. Med‑Tech Innovation and Europe’s Growing Role By John Moetteli, Secretary, AIC Geneva The American International Club of Geneva hosted an insightful luncheon on January 28, 2026, at the Hôtel Royal, featuring med‑tech entrepreneur Jim Buck, CEO at Medcura and seasoned leader across multiple successful medical‑device ventures. Buck highlighted the rapidly evolving landscape of U.S. life‑sciences innovation, where disciplined capital markets and outcome‑focused regulators are reshaping how new medical technologies come to market. Drawing from Medcura’s work in biosurgery, he offered practical advice on navigating FDA approval, emphasizing early engagement, strong clinical evidence, and clear demonstrations of patient benefit. A key theme—was the growing convergence between FDA and EMA requirements. Buck noted that both authorities increasingly prioritize meaningful clinical improvements and robust safety data, allowing innovators to design trials that serve both regulatory frameworks more efficiently. He also underscored the strategic …