Calley joins Global Trade Center mission to Brazil

Lt. Gov. Brian Calley joined Grand Valley State University’s Van Andel Global Trade Center trade mission to São Paulo, Brazil.

The trip, from May 12-17, was in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The mission assisted nine Michigan businesses in expanding export sales to Brazil while building new connections with businesses, academia and government.
 
Brazil has the world’s seventh largest economy, boasting high growth rates and strong growth potential. “This is a great time for Michigan businesses to explore global opportunities, especially small businesses,” said Sonja Johnson, executive director of the Van Andel Global Trade Center. “We were honored to have Lt. Gov. Brian Calley on the trip to promote our state as a place to do business and expand operations.”

Johnson said participants received one-on-one appointments to explore opportunities with Brazilian businesses and updates from local experts to gain current market insights. They also attended networking events, company visits, and ocean port and cultural tours.

Participating companies included:
• Cardinal Group, Hillsdale
• Dell Marking Systems, Ferndale
• Dhake Industries, Plymouth
• Dust Control and Loading Systems, Charlevoix
• Gentex, Holland
• Kee Safety, Ann Arbor
• Mistequay, Saginaw
• Viking Satcom, Albion
• Viking Spas, Wyoming