Governor Rendell Honored for Expanding Commonwealth’s Global Presence

In recognition of the success of his administration’s efforts to increase foreign investments in the commonwealth and help Pennsylvania companies do more business overseas, Governor Edward G. Rendell was honored yesterday by a leading transatlantic business network that represents hundreds of companies and individuals.

The British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia presented the Governor with its fifth “Building a Better Future” award, which is given to a member of the community who makes significant contributions to promoting business development within the state, country and across the Atlantic.

Past recipients of the honor have included Jean-Pierre Garnier, former CEO of GlaxoSmithKline; and HRH Prince Andrew, The Duke of York.

“I’m proud to receive this award, and I’m excited that the successes of Pennsylvania’s international business development efforts and the World Trade PA initiative are being recognized,” said Governor Rendell.  “For example, in 2008, Pennsylvania businesses exported more than $34 billion worth of goods.  That’s 18 percent more than in 2007 and more than double the total from just five years ago.”

Governor Rendell launched World Trade PA in 2006 to boost the commonwealth’s impact in the global market.  Since the start of that initiative, which is overseen by the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Office of International Business Development, nearly 60 foreign investment projects have been completed in Pennsylvania, resulting in the creation of more than 4,000 jobs and a total capital investment of more than $470 million.

Speaking at the British American Business Council luncheon, the Governor noted that the business relationship between Pennsylvania and the United Kingdom has seen a measurable impact since the inception of World Trade PA.  Since 2006, Pennsylvania’s exports to the UK have increased by 22 percent to $1.4 billion.  During that period, there have been 13 investment projects in Pennsylvania from the UK, with a total capital investment of $188 million and the creation and retention of more than 3,800 jobs.

“The British American Business Council’s goal is to increase transatlantic business development, and Governor Rendell’s efforts in that area have been extraordinarily successful,” said Sheryl Rothberg, executive director of the British American Business Council. “For that reason, we’re proud to present him with our ‘Building a Better Future’ award.”