Governor Gretchen Whitmer is currently on an investment mission to Switzerland, seeking to strengthen Michigan’s global partnerships to attract new investment. Additionally, the mission aims to position the state as a premier destination in advanced manufacturing, defense, and high-tech industries.
“Michigan is open for business, and we’re continuing to compete and win on the global stage,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m excited to tell Michigan’s story this week and build relationships directly with global leaders at the World Economic Forum. On issues like innovation, workforce talent, and manufacturing, we are building a bright future and making a difference for Michiganders. We’re creating opportunity and helping workers get the skills they need for good-paying jobs. We’re building vibrant communities with bustling main streets and downtowns. I’ll keep working with anyone to grow our economy, strengthen our defense and manufacturing industries, and help more families ‘make it’ in Michigan.”
Events:
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- As part of the mission, Governor Whitmer participated in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting, where global leaders from business, government, and academia convene to shape the future of the global economy.
- Additionally, she delivered an address to the Global Lighthouse Network and joined two panels, “Can EVs Really Dominate?” and “A Conversation with U.S. Governors.”
- Lastly, she held a press conference with American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten called “Closing the Manufacturing Talent Gap in the U.S. and Beyond.”
- While in Switzerland, the governor is meeting with senior executives, investors, and industry leaders to showcase Michigan’s competitive advantages and build relationships that can translate into jobs and long-term investment back home. These meetings will focus on expanding company footprints in Michigan, attracting new foreign direct investment, and reinforcing Michigan’s position as a trusted partner in global defense and security supply chains.
The governor’s engagement at WEF underscores Michigan’s role in global supply chains and its leadership in sectors critical to national and economic security, including defense, aerospace, advanced mobility, and clean energy. Michigan’s defense industry, anchored by a highly skilled workforce, robust manufacturing infrastructure, and strong ties to the U.S. Department of Defense, is a central focus of meetings throughout the mission. By maintaining a strong presence at WEF, Michigan elevates its profile, competes directly with other global regions for investment, and ensures the state’s voice is heard in conversations shaping the future of industry, trade, and innovation.
Switzerland:
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- The country is home to a strong concentration of global companies in advanced manufacturing, defense technologies, and life sciences, which are industries that align closely with Michigan’s strategic economic priorities.
- Switzerland is Michigan’s ninth-largest source of foreign direct investment.
- Since 2019, nine Swiss companies have launched ten projects in the state.
