Automation Alley Leading Trade Mission To Brazil in May
TROY -- Savvy Michigan businesses know that customers and competition are no longer limited by geography -- both can be found around the world.
Companies interested in improving their competitive edge and expanding their reach beyond United States' borders are invited to join Automation Alley, Michigan's largest technology business association, on a trade mission to Brazil, May 20-26.
"Automation Alley has conducted 13 trade missions in its history, and we've developed a reputation for delivering a well-organized, professional experience that yields real results for participating companies," said Automation Alley's director of international business services, Noel Nevshehir. "Brazil's booming economy and growing trade relationship with the United States makes it a great place for Michigan companies to seeking to expand their market overseas."
As Latin America's largest economy, the world's seventh largest economy, host of the 2012 World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics, Brazil presents ample opportunities for American businesses to diversify and grow. In 2010, the U.S. was Brazil's largest import supplier. There is an unprecedented demand for Michigan-made products, services and technologies in Brazil, in areas including automotive and advanced manufacturing; aerospace and defense; architecture, engineering, and construction services; energy; environmental and pollution control technologies; higher education; information technology and information communication technologies; and medical and life sciences.
Participants in the trade mission will be able to take advantage of the U.S. Commercial Service's Gold Key Service, which will connect companies with potential end users, agents/distributors, joint-venture partners, technology licensees, and other key players in the Brazilian market. Participants will also attend business receptions and meet with government officials and business leaders who will share their firsthand insights about the opportunities and challenges of doing business in Brazil.
Participation is limited to 10 companies. Cost to participate is $6,995 and is subject to change based on availability. Price includes international airfare, five-star hotels, internal transportation, matchmaking meetings, business briefings, welcome receptions and tours.
Companies interested in participating in the Brazil trade mission should also consider attending "Doing Business in Brazil: Latin America's Engine of Economic Growth," Feb. 2 from 8 to 11:30 a.m. at Automation Alley headquarters, 2675 Bellingham in Troy. This event will include a video conference with U.S. Commercial Services' trade specialists from Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. They will discuss the opportunities and challenges of doing business in Brazil and provide an analysis of the nation's leading industries by sector.
Since 1999, Automation Alley has led successful trade missions to locations around the world, including Brazil. To date, Automation Alley has conducted 13 trade missions, resulting in $166 million in contracts for regional companies. These contracts resulted in the creation of 917 jobs. Automation Alley was also the recipient of the Presidential "E" Award for Exporting, the highest honor the federal government can give an American exporting company or organization.
Kevin Kerrigan, executive director of global business development at Applied Manufacturing Technologies in Auburn Hills, enjoyed a positive experience during Automation Alley's 2009 trade mission to Brazil.
"Automation Alley's mission to Brazil was an outstanding success on many levels," said Kerrigan. "Firstly, the organization and execution of the travel, hotel and general details of the mission were flawless. The meeting scheduling and matchmaking added a level of depth to the business meetings that was invaluable. Lastly, traveling with a group of professional Michigan corporations, representatives from the Michigan State government, universities and schools was exciting, interesting and paid dividends in terms of the sharing of information and experience throughout the trip."
For more information on or to apply to Automation Alley's trade mission to Brazil, or to register for "Doing Business in Brazil: Latin America's Engine of Economic Growth," contact the Automation Alley Resource Center at (800) 427-5100 or info@automationalley.com.
For additional information, visit www.automationalley.com.
