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Today, the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative released a comprehensive strategy with a clear, detailed blueprint for creating new jobs and stimulating economic growth in Massachusetts through increased international trade and investment.

The report, An International Strategy for Massachusetts, was developed by the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC) and builds upon MTC’s strong commitment to developing international relationships that will foster long term economic growth throughout the state. The report can be read here.

The Strategy reviews the state's assets, such as being a leader in high-tech innovation industries, and asserts that Massachusetts is well-positioned for success in the global arena. Importantly, the Strategy goes on to note that even with severe budget constraints, the state can do more to maximize exports, galvanize international business partnerships, and increase foreign direct investment. The Strategy also surveys other states' activities in this area, showing that many have creative, well-coordinated programs even in the face of diminishing public resources.

Specific recommendations include:

  • Creating an alumni network of international students. By reaching out to current students, fellows and university visitors, the state can ensure that our temporary residents have a lasting affinity for Massachusetts and have positive impressions of conducting business here.
  • Organizing focused conferences for foreign audiences. By coordinating conferences involving leading universities, research centers, and hospitals, state officials can effectively leverage Massachusetts' world-wide reputation for education and innovation.
  • Establishing a well-defined and structured public-private partnership. The partnership would be guided by experts in international development and high-profile representatives of the business community. This model has proven to be successful in other states seeking to boost the effectiveness of their international programs.
  • Conducting reverse trade missions. Since many foreigners have an interest in visiting Massachusetts, particularly Boston, this is an advantage worth pressing. Well-organized reverse trade missions can yield a high return at relatively low cost.
  • Taking advantage of the Federal EB-5 visa program. This program which is gaining traction in several states and offers states a creative way to attract foreign investment.

For more information on An International Strategy for Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative please visit www.masstech.org.

www.masstech.org