On Thursday, July 13, 2023, more than 150 guests from the international business community of Greater Philadelphia gathered for our 11th Annual Summer International Business Networking Reception. Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP hosted and sponsored the event in the bright, welcoming, and spacious main floor lobby of their 17th and Market Street office. This annual event is truly a group effort, demonstrating Philadelphia’s strong global economic position as a prime destination for business.
The BABCPHL was proud to co-host this program with the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, and to partner with the Chilean, Eurasian, French, German, Irish, and Norwegian Chambers of Commerce, the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia, and the World Trade Centers of Delaware and Philadelphia. Special thanks and recognition of our sponsors: Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP; The Department of Community & Economic Development for the State of Pennsylvania; and PhilaPort – The Port of Philadelphia for supporting this event. It takes a village, and we have a mighty strong one here in town, representing the world.
Keynote speakers, Rick Siger, Secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, and Magda Martinez, Chief Operating Officer, The Welcoming Center, both newcomers to their current roles, addressed the group. Their presentations focused on the invaluable partnership between public and private sector entities that collaborate to support business and workforce development and education. This joint effort bolsters the region’s competitive edge as an area favorable to welcoming commercial investment and people from all over the globe. Rick talked about Governor Shapiro’s new administration and the State of Pennsylvania’s enthusiasm to pursue and foster economic growth. He mentioned that business attraction and retention are important components driving the strategy. Rick also said, the State is eager to speak and engage with regional businesses to ensure objectives are met. Contact David Briel, Deputy Secretary, Department for Community and Economic Development, State of Pennsylvania to begin a dialogue. Magda talked about the Welcoming Center’s work and extensive range of support they provide to the region’s immigrant population. She offered valuable statistical information about the strong impact of the immigrant workforce. The Greater Philadelphia population is representative of a truly globally diverse nation. The world is becoming smaller, and great things happen when we can work effectively together to create business development opportunities, jobs, and prosperity for all.
Many thanks to our distinguished speakers and guests for joining us for this highly anticipated annual event. We are grateful to our speakers, sponsors, and partners for coming together to make this a successful program, and we look forward to continued partnership.
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