Locate or Expand

Foreign Direct Investment

Two diplomats talk as they walk by international flags inside a large room, with a glass window behind them.

Grounds for Global Success

With a diverse economy that spans industries from agriculture to advanced technology, and a GDP rivaling the size of most countries, Pennsylvania is an ideal place for international companies looking to relocate or expand in the U.S.  

The BusinessPA team provides confidential, customized support to help international businesses get started in Pennsylvania. From setting up a U.S. business entity to identifying potential sites and exploring workforce options, our team makes it easy to establish business operations here.

Our foreign direct investment representatives around the world, as well as the BusinessPA team, serve as business advocates and liaisons between international companies and federal, state, and local resources. Partner with us to make moves in Pennsylvania. 

 

 

$923 Billion Statewide GDP (yes... it's bigger than Switzerland and Turkey!)

7,300 Foreign-owned firms operating in Pennsylvania
Over 436,000 Pennsylvania workers employed by foreign-owned firms
Top investing countries include United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, France, and Japan

Joint Venture Program 

Learn more about investing in, trading with, or partnering with Pennsylvania-based businesses as an international company.

Our Services

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) services are administered by the BusinessPA International team. Here's just some of what we can do for you and your business:

  • Site Selection & Visits: Find and tour potential sites that fit business needs. 
  • Research & Data: Get detailed insights on available workforce, infrastructure, taxes, and more. 
  • Business Connections: Meet regional and local suppliers, economic development partners and elected officials. 
  • Financial Assistance: Explore grants, low-interest loans, tax credits, and other financial tools.


Interagency Coordination

As a one-stop shop, the BusinessPA International team will coordinate the involvement of all Commonwealth agencies in a business development project (Department of Environmental Protection, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Department of Labor and Industry,  Department of Revenue, and other agencies as necessary) and work with the BusinessPA team for developing a financial incentives package.

Additionally, our team will help to facilitate introductions and pre-application meetings and expedite permit review and approval if possible.

Access to Economic Development Incentives

The BusinessPA International team serves as the primary contact for businesses wishing to access the Commonwealth’s various economic development incentive programs. We perform a thorough due diligence review of each project taking into consideration the following:

  • Overall economic impact of the project
  • Company’s financial condition
  • Validity of the company’s business model
  • Strength of commitments for private financing for the project
  • Competitive posture of the project
David Briel headshot

David Briel

Senior Managing Director, International Trade & Investment

717.720.7373 | dbriel@pa.gov

 

Connect with our International Investments team

Or, for localized assistance, contact a representative in your country.

 

Kate Skopp

Managing Director, International Operations Tel: 717.720.7361 kskopp@pa.gov

Alain Mortha

Senior Manager, International Investment Tel: 717.720.7380 amortha@pa.gov

Thomas Schmidt

Manager, International Investment Tel: 717.214.5827 thoschmidt@pa.gov