Team Michigan advances global partnerships, foreign direct investment and job creation
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has transitioned the state’s ongoing European investment mission from Germany to Italy, continuing Team Michigan’s efforts to strengthen international partnerships, attract foreign direct investment (FDI), and reinforce Michigan’s leadership in defense, advanced manufacturing and national security industries.
Following strategic engagements with global partners and industry leaders in Germany, the Michigan delegation is now meeting with Italian business, government and industry executives to promote Michigan as a premier U.S. destination for defense, aerospace, mobility and high-tech manufacturing investment.
The mission highlights Michigan’s competitive advantages, including its skilled workforce, robust supply chains, R&D ecosystem and strong defense and aerospace presence, while advancing opportunities for job creation and long-term economic growth.
Joining Governor Whitmer on the Italy leg of the mission are Major General Paul D. Rogers, Adjutant General of the Michigan National Guard and Director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and Colonel John T. Gutierrez, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), Executive Director of the Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
“Italy is a key partner for Michigan as we work to strengthen advanced manufacturing, defense capabilities and innovation-driven growth,” said Governor Whitmer. “By continuing our investment mission in Italy, we’re opening doors for new partnerships, expanding opportunities for Michiganders and positioning our state to compete and lead in a rapidly evolving global economy.”
Strengthening Michigan–Italy Investment Ties
Italy continues to deepen its economic relationship with Michigan, particularly in design, mobility and advanced manufacturing. Since 2019, Italian companies have announced six investment projects in Michigan totaling nearly $228 million in FDI.
A notable example came in January 2025, when Italian automotive design and engineering firm Italdesign announced plans to establish its U.S. headquarters in Bloomfield Township. The project includes a $20 million investment and 24 new jobs, reinforcing Michigan’s global leadership in mobility and automotive innovation.
Global Strategy for Growth and Security
The Italy segment of the investment mission supports Michigan’s long-term economic development strategy to:
- Attract international investment
- Support expansion of existing Michigan companies
- Grow high-impact industries tied to national security and advanced manufacturing
- Strengthen global trade and innovation partnerships
The investment mission is supported by the MEDC and the Michigan Economic Development Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing initiatives that drive private investment, job creation and wage growth across Michigan.
As global competition for advanced manufacturing and defense projects intensifies, Michigan continues to position itself as a top U.S. location for international firms seeking access to North American markets, engineering talent and integrated supply chains.
