Governor Ron DeSantis concluded a trade mission in Milan, Italy, with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) involving Medical Microinstruments Inc., the University of South Florida, and Tampa General Hospital. The agreement aims to introduce advanced microrobotic surgical technology for cancer care in Florida, enhancing the precision and minimally invasive nature of procedures.
During his visit to Milan, Governor DeSantis also engaged with Leonardo Helicopters regarding their expansion at Whiting Aviation Park in Florida. Supported by Space Florida and funding from the Governor’s Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, Leonardo is nearing completion on a $65 million customer support center. The Governor encouraged potential collaborations between Leonardo Helicopters and Florida's academic and tech sectors to boost aerospace innovation.
“Our trip has been extremely productive,” stated Governor Ron DeSantis. “We’ve forged new partnerships, enticed new jobs to the state, and found opportunities to offer more workforce training and apprenticeships to residents of Florida.”
Throughout the mission, Governor DeSantis interacted with over 30 businesses and organizations, oversaw two MOU signings between Floridian and Italian entities, spoke at six business seminars attended by companies from both regions, and participated in eight roundtable discussions aimed at fostering collaboration across various sectors.
Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly commented on the mission's success under Governor DeSantis’ leadership: “Today’s meetings are just another example of how the state of Florida supports our local partners and companies like Leonardo to bring jobs to Floridians.”
Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue P.E. highlighted efforts made during this week: “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, we have placed a direct emphasis on sharing best practices... FDOT is proud to be an international leader in transportation.”
Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Jason Weida emphasized technological advancements: “Companies like Medical Microinstruments Inc. highlight the importance of cutting-edge medical technology... Technological innovation will drive our shared success forward.”
Additionally, Secretary Cord Byrd led educational delegates in discussions with Politecnico di Milano that may lead to future partnerships between Italian institutions and universities in Florida.
“Italy is the ninth largest foreign direct investor in Florida by employment,” said Secretary Cord Byrd. He stressed that collaboration with Italian universities could help build a dynamic workforce through joint cultural and economic initiatives.
Delegates from Florida's life sciences sector also explored potential collaborations with representatives from Milano Innovation District during their visit.