Global investment is a critical driver of innovation, job creation, and economic resilience. As international companies look to the U.S. for expansion, Greater Philadelphia got the chance to show the world that it is not merely a participant in the global economy but a leader in shaping its future.

From September 8–20, 2025, Pennsylvania held “Bringing the World to PA”—a statewide tour designed to connect the Commonwealth’s international investment representatives with the many diverse and thriving economic ecosystems throughout the state.

This tour, a long-standing initiative led by the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED), welcomed a cohort of Pennsylvania’s international trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) representatives—contracted professionals who reside abroad and work to attract international business to the state. The cohort gained firsthand insights into the unique assets, industries, and opportunities that each region offers, better equipping them to attract foreign businesses seeking to expand into the U.S. market.

The tour began with a strong kickoff in Greater Philadelphia, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia and regional partners. The visit provided an opportunity to showcase what makes the city and its surrounding counties a powerful launchpad for international business: a strategic location, a rich network of universities and research institutions, access to capital, and a collaborative, innovation-driven business culture.

Trade representatives heard from leading local economic development organizations, incubators, and chambers about their objectives, available resources for global companies, and success stories of international firms that have already made Philadelphia their U.S. base.

According to Lindsey M. Hover, MCP, Manager, Business Attraction & Expansion, Select Greater Philadelphia, “This visit emphasized the Philadelphia region’s unique strengths as the major engine of the state economy of Pennsylvania in the sectors of life sciences, food and ag-tech, clean technology manufacturing, and major urban logistical hub opportunities.”

Hover also emphasized that, “Philadelphia’s metro area offers a tremendous amount of choice—when it comes to places to live and work, the diversity of industries, and talent—you can cultivate your life and business without compromise. You can’t exactly say that with other cities in the US’s northeast corridor.”

The full list of Greater Philadelphia-area stops included:

Afterwards, the international cohort continued across the state—stopping in Hershey, Pittsburgh, State College, and ending in Erie. Each stop helped build a clearer picture of Pennsylvania’s economic landscape, but Greater Philadelphia set the tone, announcing itself as a top-tier destination for foreign direct investment.