North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper is embarking on a week-long economic development trip to Europe with a clear objective: to bring back jobs that will benefit North Carolina families economically. Cooper emphasized the positive impact of foreign direct investments from companies around the world in achieving this goal.
Accompanied by officials from the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, Cooper is set to begin economic development meetings in France, Germany, and Switzerland.
During the trip, the delegation plans to engage with numerous companies, trade associations, and government officials to attract investment and jobs to North Carolina, with a return date set for May 31.
Cooper emphasized the importance of personal engagement in securing investments, noting that being present could sway companies to choose North Carolina as their expansion destination.
With over 1,700 foreign companies operating in the state employing more than 300,000 people, North Carolina aims to leverage these relationships for economic growth.
State officials hope to replicate the success of past international recruiting efforts, such as Cooper’s visit to Japan resulting in significant job gains in the manufacturing sector. The recent expansion announcements from companies like Toyota demonstrate the positive impact of such efforts on North Carolina’s economy.
Cooper highlighted the ripple effect of these investments, creating opportunities for small businesses and overall economic improvement in the region.
Business recruiters are focusing on promoting North Carolina’s strengths in workforce, education, infrastructure, and business-friendly policies, leveraging the state’s reputation as a top destination for various industries.
As the trip progresses, Cooper and officials hope to secure more investments and job opportunities, building a foundation for continued economic growth in North Carolina.
