TROY – Automation Alley, Southeast Michigan’s largest technology business association, announced that the initial results from its recent trade mission to Israel have exceeded expectations.

“We received a warm reception from the firms with which we met, and are building a network with those interested in facilitating business between Michigan and Israel,” said Steven Cole of Lipson, Neilson, Cole, Seltzer & Garin, P.C. “We discussed the supportive environment in Michigan for high-tech businesses, alternative energy and the film industry. We are optimistic about the results of the mission, and are already developing a specific blueprint for future collaboration with Israeli business interests.”

During the trade mission, participants toured Better Place, a global provider of electronic vehicle networks and services; met with the chief scientist at the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Labor; explored the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology (Israel’s ?MIT’); met with world-renowned physicians and research scientists at Hadassah Medical Center; and attended Gold Key matchmaking meetings with Israeli companies.

“In Israel, the trade mission participants met with leading partners, suppliers and investors.

interested in Southeast Michigan products and services,” said Ken Rogers, executive director. “We were very pleased with the Gold Key matchmaking meetings arranged by the U.S. Department Commerce, which have led to continuing negotiations. We are confident that future business has been secured for Southeast Michigan. “

Past trade missions have resulted in the creation of more than 200 jobs while generating $140 million in export sales, investment, and economic development for Southeast Michigan. It is expected that partnerships, contracts and sales from the Israel trade mission will add to Automation Alley’s trade mission successes.

Participating companies on the Israel trade mission included:

Barron Industries Incorporated (Oxford)

Lawrence Technological University (Southfield)

Lipson, Neilson, Cole, Seltzer & Garin, P.C. (Bloomfield Hills)

Promess Incorporated (Brighton)

RazorThreat, Inc. (Pontiac)

In addition, economic developers from Macomb and Oakland County were in attendance.

“This was one of the most productive trade missions I have participated in,” said Doug Smith, deputy county executive at Oakland County. “The company matches through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s efforts were outstanding. Several companies were matched up with the right technology partner that will generate the use of Israeli technology in US products and services to establish long-lasting partnerships.”

The trade mission was sponsored by Jaffe, Raitt, Heuer, & Weiss; MichBio; the Michigan Israel Business Bridge; NextEnergy; and the U.S. Department of Commerce.

For additional information, click on AutomationAlley.Com

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