Building Bridges: CITCA + the Indianapolis Region

In late February, the Indy Chamber brought the Indianapolis Region to Chicago for an event with the Chicago International Trade Commissioners’ Association (CITCA). The event featured the Indy region and participants explored collaboration with CITCA trade commissioners, who work to deepen trade relations between their home countries and the Midwestern US.

Over 20 CITCA members attended the event. Representing the Indy Region were members of the Indy Partnership (the regional economic development team at the Indy Chamber), with economic development representatives from Hancock County, Noblesville, and Westfield.

What is CITCA?

CITCA is a volunteer organization comprised of 50 Trade Representatives representing 40 countries from across the globe, with jurisdiction mostly for the Midwest Region of the United States.

Why is this relationship important?

CITCA is a collaborator in connecting the Indy Region with international companies, and Hoosier companies with trade opportunities around the globe.

International business helps drive the economy in the Indianapolis Metro. The region is home to over 330-foreign owned operations. In 2017, exports accounted for 10.5% of Indiana’s GDP. While Indiana’s economy has benefitted from existing trade relationships, there is still opportunity for growth.

Over the past few years, the Indy Chamber has hosted CITCA members visiting the Indy region and connected with international companies through CITCA introductions. This is a part of the Chamber’s larger Global Indy initiative to put the region on the map for global business.

Moving forward…

The Indy Partnership is working with specific trade commissioners to bring international delegations to the Indy Region, while discussing additional collaboration around trade shows and other events.