When international companies invest in America, they cast a vote of confidence in our workforce and economy. Foreign direct investment (FDI) strengthens the U.S. economy and makes it more resilient by fueling innovation, bolstering America’s manufacturing sector, exporting American-made goods and creating millions of high-quality, good-paying jobs. To learn more about how international companies are contributing to the U.S. economy and the communities in which they operate, visit GlobalBusiness.org/In-Your-State.
Across America, international companies are a cornerstone for strengthening local communities and revitalizing the U.S. economy. International companies provide 7.9 million high-quality jobs, increasing employment rates and average wages across the country. In fact, from 2015 to 2020, America’s FDI employment rose 15 percent, while the country’s overall private-sector employment remained flat. Five states, in particular, have excelled in attracting international investment for new jobs here in America. The top five states with the fastest FDI job growth from 2015 to 2020 are:
#1. Minnesota
Minnesota comes in first with a 40.2 percent, FDI employment growth rate. Job growth in Minnesota is more than double the national rate. International companies like CNH Industrial have accelerated Minnesota’s job growth. For instance, CNH Industrial established a new facility in Willmar, Minnesota, and invested $1.9 million into upgrading it to a larger receiving facility.
#2. Montana
Ranking second is Montana with its FDI employment rate increased by 39.7 percent.
#3. Vermont
Vermont ranks third for the country’s fastest-growing FDI employment rate in the country with a 38.2 percent increase in this five-year span.
#4. Wisconsin
Wisconsin comes in fourth place with a 35.5 percent FDI employment growth rate. Global companies like Nestlé have helped increase job growth in Wisconsin by investing $70 million into expanding its Burlington, Wisconsin, facility. The expansion will bring more than 100 new jobs to the area.
#5. Missouri
Missouri ranks fifth, with a 31.3 percent growth rate in FDI employment. Anheuser-Busch has accelerated job growth in Missouri by making a $50 million investment into expanding its St. Louis facility.