About Us
About the German American Business Council of Michigan
Established in 1994 in Detroit and previously operated as part of the German American Chamber of Commerce Midwest, Michigan Chapter, the German American Business Council of Michigan has transitioned to an independent non-profit organization as of 2020. The Council is governed by a Board of Directors to represent over 200 of its members and companies.
Our mission is to foster investment and trade relations while cultivating business between Germany and the state of Michigan through our network of members, corporate partners, companies and business professionals to improve and encourage German-American business relations. Germany is the 6th largest U.S. export market with an investment of $406 billion.
Since the early 1900s, Michigan has been a hub of activity for the Automotive Industry, reflecting a diverse economy with over 4,000 foreign companies operating in the state. Its two million German-Americans make it the largest population of any ethnic group and places it in the top five of states with the most jobs created by German-owned affiliates. Between 2014 and 2018, $2.5 billion was invested, making Germany the top investing country for private investment and job creating during that time, according to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Import-export data places Germany as the state’s top European trading partner. “The shared values and deep roots make Michigan a second home to Germans and the most logical place for Germans to invest and reinvest.” Fred Hoffman, First Honorary Consul for the Federal Republic of Germany in Michigan (2002-2018)1
Affilated Organizations