The US Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration hosted the first-ever SelectUSA 2013 Investment Summit in Washington DC. The 2 day event hosted investors, industry experts, technical specialists, service providers and corporate leaders from across the world.
The US Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration hosted the first-ever SelectUSA 2013 Investment Summit in Washington DC. The 2 day event hosted investors, industry experts, technical specialists, service providers and corporate leaders from across the world.
Attendees are afforded the opportunity to learn about the latest investment trends, visit state and local exhibits and engage in one-on-one meetings.
Economic development leaders from North Carolina attended the event, touting the business advantages for companies looking invest in new locations or pursue expansion.
President & CEO of North Carolina’s Eastern (NCER), John Chaffee attended the event where he met with 6 foreign-based firms, discussing the opportunities that are available for investment in the region.
“We are pleased to partner with NC Commerce International Division (Jean Davis and Dallas Hardenbrook) in presenting the many opportunities afforded in the state for foreign investment,” said Chaffee.
NC is home to quite an array of foreign-based firms and the Eastern Region is leading the way with its focus on foreign direct investment. Major companies such as ASMO, BSH Home Appliances, Bridgestone/Firestone and DSM Pharmaceuticals call the region home. NCER is home to businesses from over 20 countries and boasts assets which position the area as a prime location to consider.
“Of the companies with whom I’ve met, the key elements about our region that really resonate with corporate officials are our logistic advantages (easy access to three deep-water ports, international airports as well as freeway access to the Interstate Highway network) and our integrated, collaborative approach to workforce development (ASPIRE) including our middle school STEM initiative (STEM East),” added Chaffee.
“The talent to run and operate a facility and the ability to move materials/product remain at the top of site location criteria.”
NCER officials have already begun its follow-up with its prospects from the event and will be coordinating site visits to communities throughout its 13 county footprint.
As a division of the US Department of Commerce, SelectUSA is showcasing the United States as the world’s premier business location and providing easy access to federal-level programs and services related to business investment.
North Carolina’s Eastern Region is a regional economic development agency serving 13 counties from I-95 to the coast. For information visit North Carolina’s Eastern Region website (www.nceast.org).