MILAN, Italy—Governor Ron DeSantis recently oversaw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Medical Microinstruments Inc., the University of South Florida, and Tampa General Hospital. The agreement aims to introduce advanced microrobotic surgical technology for reconstructive oncology and cancer patient care in Florida. This technology is expected to enhance the quality of life for cancer patients by making procedures more precise and less invasive.
During his visit to Milan, Governor DeSantis also met with Leonardo Helicopters to discuss their development at Florida’s Whiting Aviation Park. With support from Space Florida and funding from the Governor’s Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, Leonardo Helicopters is nearing completion of a $65 million customer support center in Northwest Florida. The Governor encouraged potential partnerships with local universities and tech companies to foster innovation in aerospace.
“Our trip has been extremely productive,” said 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 engaged with over 30 businesses, organizations, and local governments; presided over two MOU signings; spoke at six business seminars; and attended eight roundtable discussions focused on encouraging collaboration across various sectors.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, this week continues to be a success,” stated Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. He highlighted how meetings like those with Leonardo Helicopters illustrate the state's commitment to bringing jobs to Floridians.
Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue P.E. noted that FDOT connected with Italian counterparts during the mission to strengthen existing partnerships and explore new ones. “FDOT is proud to be an international leader in transportation,” he added.
Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Jason Weida emphasized the intersection of healthcare and technology showcased during discussions with Italian industry leaders: “Companies like Medical Microinstruments Inc. highlight the importance of cutting-edge medical technology.”
Additionally, Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd led higher education delegates in meetings with Politecnico di Milano, resulting in potential collaborations between Italian institutions and Florida universities. “Italy is the ninth largest foreign direct investor in Florida by employment,” Byrd stated.
The trade mission also included interactions between life sciences industry representatives from Florida and officials from Milano Innovation District aimed at exploring future collaborations.