Michigan Companies Invited to Explore Business Opportunities in Mexico Through Automation Alley Trade Mission

Automation Alley, Michigan’s Digital Transformation Insight Center, is inviting applications for its upcoming trade mission to Mexico, scheduled for November 8–13. The delegation will connect participating Michigan companies with vetted customers, suppliers, and strategic partners in one of the world’s most dynamic manufacturing hubs.

As supply chains continue to evolve and North American trade relationships deepen, this mission offers a timely pathway for Michigan firms to assess the Mexican market, form strategic relationships, and identify concrete growth opportunities across key industries.

Why Mexico, Why Now

Mexico plays a central role in North America’s manufacturing ecosystem and is the United States’ largest trading partner. For Michigan companies, the market presents strong prospects across automotive, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, information technology, cybersecurity, energy, and healthcare. With nearshoring trends accelerating, the mission provides direct access to decision-makers and insights to help companies compete and scale internationally.

“Michigan companies have world-class technology, talent, and manufacturing expertise, but growth increasingly depends on competing globally,” said Tom Kelly, executive director and CEO of Automation Alley. “Mexico is one of our most important trading partners. Our trade missions help companies build relationships, better understand international markets, and connect directly with customers and partners who can help grow their business.”

Who Should Participate and What’s Included

This program is designed for small and medium-sized Michigan companies seeking international expansion. Participants will receive:

• Customized, pre-vetted B2B meetings with qualified partners
• Market intelligence from in-country trade specialists
• A pre-mission business briefing to refine goals and expectations
• Networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers
• On-the-ground support from Automation Alley and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

Demonstrated Results

The Mexico mission builds on the momentum of recent Automation Alley delegations to Querétaro and Paris, where Michigan companies strengthened their global presence and secured high-quality meetings with potential buyers and collaborators. Firms that joined the Querétaro mission reported tangible outcomes and high-value connections in the automotive and aerospace sectors.

“Under the trade mission model led by Automation Alley and MEDC, Centracore significantly strengthened its brand presence within Mexico’s aerospace sector by facilitating meetings aligned with our strategic objectives and providing direct access to qualified decision-makers,” said Fernanda Pérez of Centracore, who focuses on new business development for North America.

Proven Track Record

For more than two decades, Automation Alley has helped Michigan businesses expand globally. Since 2001, the organization has led 55 trade missions to 23 countries, generating an estimated $2.4 billion in export sales and contributing to the creation of more than 12,000 Michigan jobs. Its international business development efforts have also helped 59 companies from 20 countries establish a presence in Michigan, while hosting 154 foreign delegations exploring partnerships and investment opportunities across the state.

Key Dates and Capacity

Participation is limited to 10 Michigan companies to ensure personalized support and high-quality matchmaking. Applications will be accepted through September 15, 2026, or until capacity is reached. Interested companies are encouraged to apply promptly to secure a spot.

About Automation Alley

Automation Alley is a nonprofit technology business association and Digital Transformation Insight Center dedicated to helping businesses in Michigan and beyond grow through innovation, automation, and digital transformation. By bringing together industry, academia, and government, the organization fosters collaboration and delivers practical programs, tools, and insights. Its initiatives equip organizations to adopt a software-first mindset powered by automation, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies, with the goal of accelerating competitiveness and long-term growth.