The Texas Economic Development Connection—a Frisco-based network dedicated to promoting and facilitating business growth and success in Texas—made a Lone Star swing to Japan and Taiwan recently for an “unparalleled” economic development trade mission.
The 12-day trip from late November through early December featured meetings in the Tokyo metro area and a regional familiarization tour of Taiwan’s Taipei metro area.
The mission showcased the strength and versatility of Texas as a global business destination, aiming “to forge robust international partnerships, facilitate trade expansion, and encourage foreign direct investment in Texas,” according to TexasEDConnection.
The organization’s inaugural trade mission was led by “Super” Dave Quinn, founder of Frisco-based Day One Experts, and Carole Tam, owner of Richardson-based TAC Brokerage & Consulting. Also participating were Lisa Denton, executive director of Kilgore EDC; Rush Harris, executive director of Marshall EDC; and staff from Fairview EDC and Melissa IEDC.
![North Texans "Super" Dave Quinn and Carole Tam led an economic development trade mission to Japan and Taiwan in late 2023. [Courtesy photos]](https://s24806.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Super-Dave-Quinn-Carole-Tam.jpg)
North Texans “Super” Dave Quinn and Carole Tam led an economic development trade mission to Japan and Taiwan in late 2023. [Courtesy photos]
Aiming for ‘future collaborations and successes’
“This journey was a testament to the power of collaboration and mutual understanding in today’s interconnected world,” Quinn said in a LinkedIn post. “We engaged with key industry leaders, government officials, and innovators, opening doors for future partnerships that promise to bring exciting possibilities for our communities back home in Texas.”
Quinn added that he was optimistic about the future collaborations and successes “that will undoubtedly stem from this initiative.”
“We’re open for business, and ready to welcome the world with open arms,” Quinn said in a statement.
Sponsors of the mission included the Sulphur Springs Hopkins County EDC and Schulz Trade Law.
TexasEDConnection gets a “thumbs up” for Texas presentations at the Grand Hyatt Taipei in Taiwan [Photo: Day One Experts]
‘High-level discussions and networking’
During the mission, delegates engaged in high-level discussions and networking sessions with key stakeholders in Japan and Taiwan, TexasEDConnection said, noting that the interactions “have paved the way for future collaborations, trade agreements, and investment opportunities.”
“The delegation showcased Texas’ robust infrastructure, business-friendly climate, and diverse workforce, positioning the state as an ideal location for international companies looking to expand or establish new operations,” the organization added.
TexasEDConnection’s partners include corporate real estate professionals, Texas economic developers, and service-based business owners assisting foreign companies in starting operations in Texas. The Frisco-based organization says it continues to spearhead efforts to enhance Texas’ global economic standing, with a focus on creating “sustainable and mutually beneficial international relationships.”
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