The environmental market in the United States presents significant challenges and opportunities, particularly in the realm of water. With a growing population, aging infrastructure, and increasing concerns about water quality and scarcity, there is a pressing need for innovative solutions. The US water market faces various environmental challenges, including pollution from industrial activities, agricultural runoff, and outdated wastewater treatment systems. These challenges require advanced technologies and expertise in water management, monitoring, and treatment. Swiss companies participating in the fact-finding mission have the opportunity to showcase their cutting-edge solutions and collaborate with local decision-makers and industry leaders to address these environmental concerns and to learn about current and upcoming water quality projects in the Midwest. By leveraging Switzerland's expertise in water innovation, the mission aims to foster partnerships that can help maintain and upgrade the US water residential and industrial infrastructure, ensuring sustainable water resources for future generations. Furthermore, the fact-finding mission aligns with the growing global focus on environmental sustainability, providing Swiss companies a platform to contribute to the US market's transition towards a greener and more water-resilient future.
Why Chicago and Milwaukee?
Chicago, often referred to as a "water city," is situated between two major river basins and boasts an extensive network of canals. Meanwhile, Milwaukee, located in Wisconsin, houses a thriving cluster of 200 water-related companies and is a national leader in water innovation and technology, spearheaded by the Water Council. Both cities lie on the shores of the Great Lakes, holding an astounding 90% of the freshwater reserves in the United States. As local decision-makers seek to upgrade water infrastructure, they are actively seeking Swiss solutions in water management, monitoring, and tracking to tackle these environmental challenges effectively.
The Program
The fact-finding mission in combination with the SWISS Pavilion at WEFTEC 2023 will unfold over five days, offering a comprehensive itinerary for Swiss companies interested in exploring the US water market.
Monday – Wednesday, Ocober 2 - 4 - Chicago:
During the first three days of the program, participants will have the opportunity to be part of the SWISS Pavilion at WEFTEC 2023, which takes place at McCormick Place in Chicago. This is North America's largest trade show on drinking and wastewater quality, providing an excellent platform for Swiss companies to showcase their expertise and connect with industry leaders.
Wednesday, October 4 - Chicago:
The Swiss delegation will commence their visit with a kick-off meeting hosted by Intersect Illinois. This meeting will focus on "Doing Business in Chicago and Illinois," providing valuable insights into the local business landscape. Following the meeting, participants will have the opportunity to connect with industry experts and the Swiss business network during a reception, fostering networking and partnership opportunities.
Thursday, October 5 - Chicago and Milwaukee:
Swiss companies will engage in a series of meetings with key stakeholders involved in water treatment and infrastructure in both Chicago and Milwaukee. The day begins with a visit to Current Chicago, the city's water innovation hub, where participants will gain valuable insights into cutting-edge water technologies and collaborations. Subsequently, meetings with the Water Reclamation District of Chicago and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Chicago will shed light on partnership opportunities between the private sector and public stakeholders.
A working lunch with the Department of Water Management of the City of Chicago will focus on drinking water-related discussions, and participants will have the opportunity to explore upcoming water projects with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The day concludes with a meeting with UL Solutions, a global certification and testing company, where participants will learn about relevant certifications applicable to the Swiss water industry in the US market.
Friday, October 6 - Milwaukee:
The Swiss delegation will visit the Milwaukee Water Works, responsible for providing drinking water to nearly one million people. This visit aims to facilitate discussions on water management practices and exchange knowledge on innovative approaches. Additionally, a meeting with one of the global water industry leaders headquartered in Wisconsin, such as Badger Meter, will provide further insights into cutting-edge technologies.
The fact-finding mission concludes with a visit to the Water Council, a prominent global institution dedicated to water innovation and technology. With a focus on nurturing entrepreneurial growth, the Water Council houses 45 global companies and hosts its own accelerator program. After the meetings, the Swiss delegation will be transferred to O'Hare Airport, located 1 hour and 15 minutes away in Chicago, to facilitate their return to Switzerland.
The Swiss Fact Finding Mission, in conjunction with participation in the SWISS Pavilion at WEFTEC, offers Swiss companies a remarkable opportunity to explore the US water market and address pressing environmental challenges. The vibrant cities of Chicago and Milwaukee, situated near the Great Lakes, provide a fertile ground for collaboration.
Together, let's forge new collaborations, exchange knowledge, and pave the way for sustainable water management solutions in the US market.
Ready to join?
To seize this unparalleled opportunity to navigate the US water market and address its environmental challenges, Swiss companies are encouraged to participate at the SWISS Pavilion in combination with the upcoming fact-finding mission to Chicago and Milwaukee in October 2023.
Register for the participation at the SWISS Pavilion at WEFTEC here.
Register for the fact-finding mission here.
For the detailed overview of the fact-finding mission, please find the flyer below:
Organizer SWISS Pavilion: Swissenviro GmbH
Organizer fact-finding mission: Swiss Business Hub USA
Media partner: UmweltTechnik Schweiz
