International companies in the United States have led the way throughout the pandemic by taking extraordinary steps to safeguard their workers and customers. These American employers are also uniquely positioned to spur America’s economic recovery and jumpstart job growth. 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. When an international company sets up shop, it’s a vote of confidence in U.S. workers. International companies provide 7.9 million high-quality jobs, increasing employment rates and average wages across the country. In fact, from 2014 to 2019, America’s FDI employment rose 20 percent, while the country’s overall private-sector employment rose 9 percent. Five states in particular have excelled in attracting international investment for new jobs here in America. Here are the five states that top the list for fastest FDI job growth from 2014 to 2019:
#1 Minnesota
Minnesota comes in first with a 46.3 percent FDI employment growth rate. Job growth in Minnesota is more than double the national rate. International companies like Rolls-Royce have accelerated Minnesota’s job growth. For instance, Rolls Royce North America invested $13.9 million into its Mankato facility to add a new research and development building, creating new manufacturing positions.
#2 Tennessee
Ranking second, Tennessee’s FDI employment rate has increased 33.4 percent. CGI has helped increase Tennessee’s job growth with a $27 million investment to open a new operations center in Knoxville, creating 300 new jobs.
#3 Utah
Utah ranks third for the fastest growing FDI employment rate in the country with a 33.3 percent increase in this five-year span. Rio Tinto America recently invested $2.9 million to build a new plant at its Kennecott copper mine near Salt Lake City.
#4 Michigan
Michigan comes in fourth place with a 32.9 percent FDI employment growth rate. Global companies like Magna International have helped increase job growth in Michigan by investing $70 million into a new battery plant in St. Clair. The facility will bring more than 300 new jobs to the area.
#5 Kansas
Kansas ranks fifth, with a 32.8 percent growth rate in FDI employment. T-Mobile has accelerated job growth in Kansas by building a state-of-the-art customer experience center in Overland Park, creating 1,000 new jobs.