The monumental $500 billion German investment is not just a figure, but also a gateway to significant economic growth for the U.S. and Northwest Illinois.
In this exclusive interview, Gary Camarano, Economic Development Director for Whiteside County, Illinois, engages with Dr. Andreas Eckstein, Managing Director of Invest in Niedersachsen (Lower Saxony), and Aryan Zandieh, CEO of NRW Global Business (North America). They explore how Germany’s historic defense and infrastructure investment program opens new avenues for U.S. businesses. Northwest Illinois, strategically nestled in the heart of the Great Lakes North American Manufacturing Hub, is uniquely poised to forge strategic partnerships with one of Europe’s most dynamic industrial regions.
Opening Remarks
Gary Camarano: Hello, Andreas, hello Aryan — reconnecting with you both is a pleasure. Andreas, it has been a while since we last spoke, and a great deal has changed politically, economically, and culturally over the past 12 months. From your perspective, what are the key developments happening in Germany’s economic landscape?
Andreas Eckstein: Thank you, Gary. Germany’s recent federal elections resulted in a coalition government between the conservatives and the Social Democrats, setting the stage for substantial policy shifts. Most notably, the government has launched an unprecedented defense investment program — the largest in Germany’s history — with an allocation of approximately $500 billion over the coming years. The primary aim is to bolster national defense capabilities and reduce dependency on external sources. This historic investment will generate significant opportunities for German and international companies across various sectors.
Aryan Zandieh: In North Rhine-Westphalia, we have strategically expanded our foreign direct investment (FDI) efforts across the U.S. by establishing a dedicated presence. We have our Headquarters in Chicago, and have built local teams in California and Georgia. We focus on participating in flagship trade shows in the Life Sciences, Chemicals, and Renewable Energy Sectors, aligning regional German strengths with U.S. market opportunities.
Sector Opportunities and Strategic Insights
GC: Andreas, which sectors do you think will benefit the most from this historic defense investment?
AE: The aerospace and defense sectors are experiencing rapid growth. For example, German aerospace firms regularly participate in events like the PNAA Aerospace Conference in Seattle. We are witnessing a shift from civil to defense aviation, including drones, helicopters, and maintenance, where U.S. companies have considerable expertise in these areas. This trend creates excellent transatlantic synergies and inspires collaborative opportunities that can shape the industry’s future.
GC: Aryan, your approach to FDI resembles a strategic sales process. Could you share your key strategies?
THE: Absolutely. We view FDI as a long-term partnership, much like a sales engagement. We start by identifying priority sectors and target regions. Collaboration with organizations such as SelectUSA, economic development organizations, chambers, and universities is essential to drive innovation-focused investments. Our messaging emphasizes building sustainable, job-creating “transatlantic partnerships,” rather than just facilitating corporate relocations. This approach ensures the stability and reliability of the investment process.
GC: Andreas, how will Germany allocate its defense funding, and what can U.S. companies do to position themselves for success?
AE: Germany’s defense investment does not mandate that all products be manufactured domestically, which opens doors for U.S. companies to export to Germany or establish local manufacturing. Our team at Invest in Niedersachsen assists by identifying suitable locations — whether military hangars or greenfield sites — and navigating the grants and permits process. We also facilitate connections with global defense players, such as Rheinmetall and Airbus.
GC: Do you have any thoughts on how this investment will affect regions like Chicagoland and Northwest Illinois?
AEs: Chicagoland is already a vibrant aerospace hub, with companies like Broetje Automation successfully establishing operations in Elk Grove Village. With its 6,500-foot runway and award-winning general aviation airport, Whiteside County could become a strategic site for aerospace manufacturing expansion, leveraging its infrastructure and proximity to major markets.
Key Factors for U.S. Communities to Attract German Investment
GC: To conclude, what five critical factors should U.S. communities demonstrate to attract German investment?
AE: From my perspective, they are:
1. Connectivity — Proximity to major airports, rail, roads, ports, and reliable broadband.
2. Skilled Workforce — Strong technical education, apprenticeships, and talent pipelines.
3. Strategic Location — Access to markets and talent hubs, such as Chicagoland.
4. Meaningful Incentives- Availability of grants, site support, and financing
5. Customizability – German companies value local flexibility and responsiveness
GC: Aryan, you have had success with several major firms. What are German companies generally looking for in U.S. sites?
THE: Proximity to international airports, especially with transatlantic flights, is key. Chicago, Atlanta, and San Francisco are among the most popular. Access to a skilled workforce and research institutions is equally important. SME investors seek reliable infrastructure, robust talent pipelines, and sustained long-term economic stability.
GC: Well said, both of you. We are all deeply committed to building mutually beneficial partnerships that benefit our communities and industries and promote shared prosperity. The potential for these mutually beneficial partnerships is immense and a cause for great optimism. We are excited about the bright future of the U.S.-German collaboration. Thank you both for the insights.
Our next step is finalizing our Economic Development Tour of Northwest Illinois. This tour is of immense value, as it will introduce you to some of our key business, community, educational, and political leaders, and provide you with a close-up look at our human assets and physical resources. It is a crucial step in fostering U.S.-German collaboration, and I look forward to sharing the insights and opportunities from this event with everyone. Your collaboration in this is key to the success of this tour.
