On Thursday January 15, IIUSA President David Andersson participated in the 43rd Annual Economic Forecast Conference organized by the Economic Development Council of Seattle and King County. Featuring keynote addresses from Washington Governor Jay Inslee and Seattle Mayor Ed Murray, the conference featured the launch of the region’s Global Trade & Investment Plan, focused on increasing exports and growing our share of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
The Global Trade & Investment Plan outlines five strategies to accomplish the goal of Greater Seattle being the most globally competitive region in the country:
- Increased regional economic collaboration
- Convert export partners to investors in advanced industries
- Help small- and medium-sized enterprises access new capital and export markets
- Develop the potential investor pipeline: international students and tourists
- Leverage strong ties to China for increased investment
Mr. Andersson spoke on the panel for Foreign Direct Investment moderated by Amy Liu, Co-director of the Metropolitan Policy Program which also included Jan Beck, Vice President, Novo Nordisk, Curt Fraser, CEO, Middle Market Banking Pacific Northwest, JPMorgan Chase, Dan Friz, Director of Business Management, KUKA Systems North America and Chris Wheaton, Co-Founder, Chief Operating & Financial Officer, EnerG2.
To view the full agenda, speakers and schedule click here and to read the official press release from the event, click here. A fascinating infographic of “Greater Seattle in the Global Economy” can be viewed here. Archived video will be available soon on the Economic Development Counci of Seattle and King County website here.