Governor Whitmer Leads Investment Mission to Europe for Jobs and Growth

Governor Whitmer Leads Michigan’s Charge at Eurosatory to Attract Global Investment

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan is setting its sights on strengthening international ties this week as Governor Gretchen Whitmer embarks on a significant investment mission to Europe. This initiative aims to deepen Michigan’s economic relationships with European partners by attracting job-creating investments and fostering valuable diplomatic connections.

Governor Whitmer, alongside the Team Michigan delegation, is attending Eurosatory, a premier global conference on defense and security. As the sole governor at the event, Whitmer plans to position Michigan as a top contender for international investment, emphasizing the state’s capabilities in aerospace and defense.

“Michigan is open for business and on the move, working with anyone and competing with anyone to onshore good-paying jobs for Michiganders,” stated Governor Whitmer. She aims to leverage this trip to showcase Michigan’s leadership in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and defense, while fostering opportunities that benefit the state’s workforce.

The Team Michigan delegation comprises notable figures, including Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) CEO Quentin L. Messer, Jr., and Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation (ODAI) Executive Director Col. John T. Gutierrez, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.).

“Michigan’s ongoing relationships across Europe continue to create opportunities for our businesses, workers, and communities,” noted Messer. As the delegation engages with partners in France, Belgium, and Luxembourg, they aim to bolster connections that attract investment and open doors for Michigan companies in key industries.

Col. Gutierrez highlighted the significance of Eurosatory in showcasing Michigan’s growing prowess in aerospace and defense. “Michigan’s defense industrial base, skilled workforce, and advanced manufacturing capabilities make our state a valuable partner in supporting national and international defense priorities,” said Col. Gutierrez.

Additional members of the delegation include leaders from the health sector, such as Marc Corriveau from Henry Ford Health System and Laura Appel from the Michigan Health and Hospital Association.

At Eurosatory, 12 Michigan-based companies are exhibiting in the Michigan Pavilion, supported by the MEDC’s International Trade program and Automation Alley. These companies represent a range of industries, from machining to aerospace engineering, highlighting Michigan’s diverse industrial capabilities.

Michigan’s International Trade program plays a crucial role in supporting small- and medium-sized businesses’ export development. With a significant portion of the world’s consumers outside the United States, the program underscores the importance of global market exposure for Michigan’s goods and services.

Tom Kelly, Automation Alley executive director and CEO, emphasized the value of international trade missions like Eurosatory. “For small and medium-sized businesses in particular, this type of support helps accelerate growth, strengthen competitiveness and open doors to new customers and partnerships,” he said.

Europe stands as a pivotal partner in Michigan’s economic landscape, contributing significantly to foreign direct investment that boosts job creation and innovation. Since 2019, French and Belgian companies have invested billions in Michigan, supporting sectors such as advanced manufacturing and life sciences.

Team Michigan’s ongoing international engagements are instrumental in supporting existing investors and attracting future investments, ensuring Michigan remains a competitive and appealing destination for global business expansion.

This investment mission receives support from the MEDC and the Michigan Economic Development Foundation, dedicated to advancing economic development initiatives in Michigan.