Missouri Makes a Splash at the Paris Air Show

Governor Mike Kehoe recently led a Missouri delegation to Paris, France, which included Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership, and other economic development leaders from across the state. The delegation showcased Missouri’s strong commitment to global partnerships, economic growth, and the state’s competitive edge in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and innovation.

Governor Kehoe’s first international trade mission featured meetings with global businesses exploring new opportunities and attendance at the largest trade event in the aerospace industry, the Paris Air Show, to promote future investment.

This impactful trade mission was funded by Hawthorn Foundation, a public-private nonprofit created in 1982 by former Governor/Senator Kit Bond to enable Missouri to market itself globally. Members of Hawthorn Foundation include business and civic leaders driving global trade, workforce development, and innovation across the state. 

Trade missions are central to Hawthorn Foundation’s purpose, serving as a powerful tool to strengthen Missouri’s global economic ties. Under Governor Parson’s leadership, these missions attracted billions in investment and led to a13% increase in exports, adding nearly $10 billion in growth.

Beyond funding trade missions, Hawthorn Foundation supports statewide economic development through public-private partnerships, workforce initiatives, and strategic branding efforts that strengthen Missouri’s competitiveness. 

Learn more about getting involved with Hawthorn Foundation

Learn more about Missouri’s strong trade relationship with France

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