Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is leading a weeklong trade trip to bolster tourism and economic relationships with leaders in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
During the trip, Whitmer and other state leaders will meet with newly elected government officials and industry stakeholders to discuss investment opportunities in Michigan and reinforce diplomatic connections.
“Michigan has long enjoyed strong economic and cultural ties with the UK and Ireland, and this mission presents an opportunity to build on that foundation,” said Whitmer. “By fostering trade relationships and attracting new investment, we are creating opportunities for Michigan businesses and workers while enhancing our state’s economic resilience in a rapidly evolving global market.”
The governor will be joined by Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) CEO Quentin L. Messer, Jr., Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDARD) Director Dr. Tim Boring, and Michigan Department of Natural Resources Director Scott Bowen.
According to the release from Whitmer’s office, the UK is one of the state’s leading foreign direct investment sources, and Ireland offers opportunities for partnerships in the life sciences, financial technology, and clean energy industries.
“From January 2019 to present, the UK and Ireland made over $2.5 billion and $101 million in capital investments in Michigan, creating 4,364 and 292 jobs, respectively,” the governor’s office said.
While on the trip, the Michigan leaders will visit companies already present in the state, including Glen Dimplex Thermal Solutions, Perrigo, and Glanbia.
They’ll also hold roundtables with Midlands Aerospace Alliance, Enterprise Ireland, and the American Chamber of Commerce.
“Michigan is the best place in North America for global companies to ‘Make It’ – whether that means manufacturing world-class products, launching new innovations or collaborating with world-class academics. Through our ‘Make It in Michigan’ economic development strategy, Team Michigan is doubling down on attracting global businesses, strengthening our talent pipeline, and ensuring that our communities are ready to welcome new opportunities and residents,” said MEDC CEO Quentin L. Messer, Jr. “This mission is an excellent chance to showcase why Michigan is the ideal destination for investment and continued historic partnerships. Thank you to Governor Whitmer for leading this mission, and MDARD Director Boring and DNR Director Bowen for promoting Michigan’s unique agriculture and natural resources industries to our friends familiar with Michigan from Corktown to Birmingham to Gladstone.”
This trip follows other investment missions led by Whitmer and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist and continues their efforts to secure jobs through partnerships overseas.
Earlier this year, Whitmer went to the United Arab Emirates to discuss the state’s position as a leader in the defense and aerospace industries. Last year, Gilchrist visited the UK and the Netherlands to meet political leaders and attend the Farnborough Air Show.
