Brick by Brick: Strengthening companies, creating jobs, building a region one step at a time

(left to right) Mike Finney, Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC), Aurora Battaglia, Comerica; Maria Gabriella Zignone, Banca Sella Spa; Giuseppe Gradi, Intesa San Paolo S.p.a.; Governor Rick Snyder; Massimiliano Iguera, J.P. Morgan; Birgit Klohs, The Right Place; Mark Kinsler and Maureen Krauss, MEDC promote Michigan during a mission trip to Italy and Germany.

During its first day of a six-day mission trip, Governor Snyder and the economic development leaders comprising the trade mission team met with the Turin Chamber of Commerce, as well as meetings with area companies. During lunch, it joined local corporate and economic representatives for a U.S. Commercial Services / Consul General Briefing with the American Consul General, Kyle Scott. The briefing covered Italy’s political and economic status, as well as the new Monti government.  A more detailed discussion of the country’s northern region and economic opportunities available there were also discussed.

The lunch was followed by a bank roundtable discussion of the changes to Michigan tax law, economic opportunities for investment, and the potential for Michigan exports to Italy.  The day concluded with afternoon meetings with area companies and a reception.