Trip Dates: December 1-5, 2025 | Trip Location: Michigan & Illinois
In December, the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest (GACC Midwest) organized a German business delegation to Detroit and Chicago focused on advanced plant engineering solutions for battery manufacturing and recycling. The program brought together U.S. and German stakeholders from across the battery value chain to foster transatlantic exchange, business development, and collaboration.
Through panel discussions, networking sessions, and targeted B2B meetings, participants explored technological solutions for battery cell and pack production, recycling, and the recovery of critical raw materials. The events highlighted the growing demand for scalable, automated, and energy-efficient technologies in key U.S. battery hubs such as Michigan and Illinois.
The delegation visit was part of the Market Entry Program, organized in cooperation with SBS systems for business solutions and on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE).
Key Takeaways
- Strong U.S. demand for advanced plant engineering: Battery manufacturing and recycling projects in the Midwest are accelerating, driving interest in scalable, automated, and energy-efficient solutions.
- High relevance of German technology providers: German expertise in plant engineering, automation, and recycling systems was met with strong interest from U.S. industry stakeholders.
- Michigan and Illinois as strategic hubs: Both states continue to position themselves as central locations for battery manufacturing across the full value chain.
- Value of in-person exchange: Direct dialogue, networking, and B2B meetings proved critical for building trust and identifying concrete collaboration opportunities.
- Clear potential for follow-up projects: The delegation laid the groundwork for future partnerships, site visits, and tailored business matchmaking between U.S. and German companies.
Photos from the trip:
