U.S. manufacturers embark on mission to Canada

U.S. manufacturers, on a mission to develop trade relationships with Canadian companies, will be making their way to Toronto and Montreal from Septebmer 27 to October 1.

The trade mission, led by Michigan’s largest technology business association, Automation Alley, will be targeting such industries as aerospace; automotive components; building products; cleantech and renewable energy technologies; defense and homeland security; general industrial equipment; IT and information communications technology; and life sciences, medical devices and equipment.

"We’re excited to take local companies to our neighbors to the north. Michigan leads the nation in exports to Canada," said Ken Rogers, Automation Alley executive director. "In fact, the United States and Canada have the largest two-way trade and investment relationship in the world, exceeding $425 billion in 2009. It’s obvious that Canada is clearly a top destination for Michigan products and services."

The cost for U.S. participants to attend is $4,995 per person for Automation Alley members and $5,995 for non-members. The price includes hotels, rail transportation to destinations, airfare, matchmaking receptions, and some meals. For those interested in traveling to only Toronto, the price is $2,295 for members and $3,995 for non-members.

Previous Automation Alley trade missions have resulted in the creation of more than 730 jobs and $147 million in new contracts and sales for participating companies.