Upstate International Business
Saying the Upstate is recognized as the Southeastern hub for international business is an understatement. Upstate South Carolina has received global recognition being a hot spot for international investment in the nation. This global awareness is due to many notable companies locating to the area. Due to one of the lowest costs of living in the nation compiled with an available workforce Anderson County has to offer industrial growth continues to be an uptrend. Growth is occurring not only with established international manufacturing entities but also with new international companies looking to take root.
Foreign ownership in manufacturing tends to be more concentrated in the Southeast, according to a recent government report. Several factors contribute to this trend. Namely, that includes the automotive cluster that has formed in the region following the locations of BMW in early 1992. In addition, many amenities were added for the different cultures from restaurants, clubs, and performing arts to educational opportunities.
International Resources
The International Center of the Upstate (ICU) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting cross-cultural understanding among businesses and the community. The organization is focused on making international residents feel at home in the Upstate area. With a multitude of international companies providing employment within the community, increasing opportunities are available for resident involvement in cultural programs. Programs include relocation services, language courses, social clubs and gatherings, and various conversational opportunities for further language immersion. Humanitarian outreach luncheons, educational programming, global business connections, and educational forums provided through the World Affairs Council are readily available. There are several clubs offering social events and educational opportunities, catering to specific nationalities and cultures.
In addition, the ICU ambassador program has been created to aid companies in bringing new employees here from abroad. A bilingual volunteer is proved by the ICU to welcome the family and assist them in getting settled. The service is available for Chinese, French, German, and Spanish-speaking families; other languages such as Italian and Japanese are available by special arrangement.
Upstate International highlights the diversity within our community through artistic performances, discussions, talks on literature, culinary experiences, and more. Take a look at the Upstate International events calendar to find more opportunities to broaden horizons. Upstate International offers membership to any local resident in the Upstate that would like to become involved in the various programs provided.
International Companies–Upstate South Carolina
The Upstate area has been recognized by the New York Times, USA Today, Business Week magazine, and Expansion Management magazine as the top area for European expansion in the US. The Upstate is home to more than 245 international major manufacturing companies representing 24 countries. The list of countries includes the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Ireland, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland, Italy, Belgium, France, China, Germany, and Canada.
Anderson County provides an exceptional business climate for some of the world’s most forward-thinking companies. These companies include world leaders in the development and application of cutting-edge technologies in industries such as automotive, healthcare, and advanced materials. Anderson County has an unparalleled track record of excellence in manufacturing and industrial experience. The track record is so high that the Upstate has the highest international investment per capita in the United States. Additionally, the county has one of the nation’s strongest workforces with multiple programs designed to engage workers.