Atlanta, GA, USA
Aug 27, 2024

TBIC 2024 Conference Wrap-Up: Our Largest and Most Impactful Conference Yet

This year’s event, our largest yet, brought together over 130 U.S. economic development organizations (EDOs), FDI experts, site selection consultants, and key representatives from European consulates and bi-national chambers. The connections, insights, and collaborations that took place over the past few days reinforced our mission to bridge the gap between U.S. communities and international companies planning to expand into the U.S.

Kicking Off with Global Perspectives

We started strong with Anne-Laure Desjonquères, Consul General of France in Atlanta, setting the tone with her opening remarks, followed by an insightful keynote from Jon Willis, Vice President and Senior Economist from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. From these opening discussions, it was clear that this year’s conference would delve deep into the complex dynamics of transatlantic trade and investment.

Diving into FDI Trends and Infrastructure

The day continued with a series of panels that sparked meaningful conversations. Our panel on "Perspectives and Trends in Foreign Direct Investment, Transatlantic Relations, and the Global Economy" brought together some of the sharpest minds in the field—Eike Klapper, Philipp Clarke, Jeffrey Reed, Tess Fay, and Jon Willis—to discuss the macroeconomic and geopolitical trends shaping the future of FDI.

Our next session on "Key Challenges and Assets of FDI-Ready Infrastructure" tackled one of the most critical components of attracting foreign investment. Bill Adams, Bruce Bharat, Jennifer Bostian, and Manann Donoghoe shared their expertise on everything from strategic site planning to the importance of human infrastructure, highlighting the key elements that make a region stand out to global investors.

Success Stories that Inspire

One of the highlights of the conference was hearing about the success story of Miele USA’s site selection process in Opelika, Alabama. Jan Vüllers, John Sweatman, and James Blair showcased how collaboration within the TBIC network led to Miele’s decision to establish its first U.S. production plant. It’s success stories like this that remind us how impactful our collective efforts can be in facilitating meaningful FDI opportunities.

Unlocking Strategies to Attract International Companies

Our panel on "Exposure & Presentation: How to Attract International Companies" was a must-see for anyone looking to elevate their community’s appeal to global businesses. Ron Bertasi, Richard Culberson, Philip Marschall, Ann Rybka, and Carter Hendricks delivered practical advice on how to market regional assets and leverage technology to position regions for success on the global stage.

A Record-Breaking Event with Unmatched Collaboration

We can’t thank our speakers, sponsors, and attendees enough for making TBIC 2024 our most successful conference to date. The energy, engagement, and collaboration we witnessed this week was truly inspiring, and we’re already looking forward to what #TBIC2025 will bring.

Until then, let’s continue building bridges across the Atlantic and working together to foster transatlantic business growth.