Julie Hernandez-Tomlin Commissioner Department of Fleet and Facility Management (2FM). | LinkedIn
Julie Hernandez-Tomlin Commissioner Department of Fleet and Facility Management (2FM). | LinkedIn
Mayor Brandon Johnson and World Business Chicago are in London to promote Chicago as a prime location for international business growth, focusing on fintech, insurtech, climate, and healthcare sectors. The visit aims to strengthen ties with investors by highlighting Chicago's diverse workforce and strong global connectivity.
"Chicago is a leader on the world stage," stated Mayor Johnson. He emphasized the city's cultural impact and its potential as a business expansion hub during this trip.
The UK stands as Chicago’s largest foreign direct investment partner, with over 250 UK-based companies in the city. In 2023, trade between them reached $7.68 billion, making the UK Chicago's fourth-largest trade partner. This mission seeks to enhance these economic ties and explore new opportunities.
Phil Clement of World Business Chicago remarked on the opportunity presented by the NFL’s European series: "We’ve got a full schedule of meetings and roundtables ahead, all aimed at sparking interest in Chicago."
The delegation will meet executives from London-based companies to promote Chicago as an international business gateway. Events include industry-specific roundtables on fintech, quantum computing, and climate technology.
Several key meetings are planned:
- Thursday at 11 a.m., meeting with a photonic quantum computer developer.
- Thursday at 1 p.m., meeting with a Scottish semiconductor laser company.
- Friday at 11 a.m., discussions with three quantum-related companies about potential expansion into Chicago.
- Saturday at 2 p.m., meeting focused on sustainable thermal drying technologies aligned with Chicago’s sustainability goals.
On October 11, a London company will announce its U.S. market expansion with headquarters in Chicago via livestream.
Key delegation members include Mayor Brandon Johnson, Jason Lee, Kenya Merritt, Dominique Warren from the City of Chicago; Phil Clement, Charles E. Smith, Adrienne Tongate, Anel Montes Marchan from World Business Chicago; and Karla Ruth Orozco Toledano focusing on foreign direct investment.
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