The Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma, Matt Pinnell, has held a series of high-profile meetings with the Scottish business community as part of a trip aimed at improving transatlantic business relations, focusing on highlighting investment opportunities for ambitious Scottish businesses throughout Oklahoma.
Oklahoma is fast becoming an attractive place for international businesses to target due to its central location, which offers significant logistical advantages.
Additionally, pro-business legislation and a range of financial incentives, as well as electricity rates 40% lower than the national average, all contribute to Oklahoma becoming the 2nd lowest-cost state in the US to do business.
The state has seen over $3 billion of foreign investment over the last 5 years, creating approximately 4,000 jobs for the local community.
During the visit organised by GlobalScot and CEO of US-based Kindred Strategic, Sara Macauley, the Lt. Governor Pinnell had meetings with the Weir Group, Panoramic Equity, Scottish Equity Partners, Scottish Development International partners, North Capital, First Carbon Investments.
His trip then concluded with a dinner hosted by Glasgow firms, NVT Group and N4 Partners. Attendees included Space Aye, Herd Advance, SmartEdge, Neuroclin, Myconourish, Peacock Technology, Smarter Subsea, Reblade, Ferguson Whisky, Algiz, Airspection, Institute of Directors and Scottish Power Renewables.
At the conclusion of his visit to Scotland, Lt. Governor Pinnell commented: “I am thankful for the hospitality shown to us by the Scottish business community over the last few days.
“Scotland has a strong culture of hard work, innovation, and entrepreneurship, values we hold strongly in Oklahoma as well. I am excited about the business partnership opportunities we’ve discussed and how they could benefit both Oklahoma and Scotland for years to come.”
Gordon Merrylees, from N4 Partners who hosted a dinner on behalf of the Scottish business community for the Lt. Governor, added: “I’m happy to speak on the behalf of the businesses involved in this trip when I convey our gratitude for the Lt.
“Governor taking the time to personally meet and form relationships with numerous Scottish businesses seeking international opportunities. It’s clear Oklahoma could be the ideal strategic location for those wishing to expand across the Atlantic and we look forward to exploring the vast investment opportunities available across the state.”
