MILAN, Italy - On November 15 2024, Governor DeSantis presided over an MOU signing between Medical Microinstruments Inc., the University of South Florida, and Tampa General Hospital. This MOU is an agreement to work together to introduce cutting-edge, microrobotic surgical technology for reconstructive oncology and the care of cancer patients in Florida. This new robotic surgical technology will increase the quality of life for those battling or recovering from cancer and make procedures for Floridians more precise and less invasive.

In Milan, Governor DeSantis met with Leonardo Helicopters to discuss their full buildout at Florida’s Whiting Aviation Park. With the support of Space Florida and funding from the Governor’s Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, the company is near completion on a state-of-the-art, $65 million customer support center at the park in Northwest Florida. During the meeting, the Governor encouraged Leonardo Helicopters to explore potential partnerships with Florida universities and technology companies to drive innovation and expand opportunities in the aerospace industry. 

“Our trip has been extremely productive,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We’ve forged new partnerships, enticed new jobs to the state, and found opportunities to offer more workforce training and apprenticeships to residents of Florida. Thank you to everyone involved in executing this trade mission.” 

Over the course of the trip, Governor Ron DeSantis has:
-Met with more than 30 businesses, organizations and local governments;
-Presided over two MOU signings between Floridian and Italian institutions and businesses;
-Spoken at six business seminars with audiences of Floridian and Italian companies; and
-Attended eight roundtable discussions between ports, space organizations, life science companies, and universities to encourage partnership and collaboration.

“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, this week continues to be a success,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “Today’s meetings are just another example of how the state of Florida supports our local partners and companies like Leonardo to bring jobs to Floridians, especially those in rural communities.”

“This week, FDOT and our seaport partners have connected with many of our Italian counterparts to strengthen existing partnerships and forge new relationships,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared. W. Perdue P.E. “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, we have placed a direct emphasis on sharing best practices, strategic trade opportunities and understanding the needs of Italian companies in order for them continue expanding across Florida. FDOT is proud to be an international leader in transportation and looks forward to working with these companies and associations for decades to come.”

“The intersection of health care and technology was on full display as we had discussions with Italy’s top industry leaders and Florida Hospital leaders to reaffirm Florida’s position as a premier destination for investment and collaboration,” said Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Jason Weida. “Companies like Medical Microinstruments, Inc. highlight the importance of cutting-edge medical technology with the world's smallest wristed medical microinstruments. Technological innovation, coupled with Florida’s vibrant business landscape will drive our shared success forward” 

Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd led a group of higher education delegates to meet with Politecnico di Milano-Italy’s largest science-technology university, resulting in multiple potential partnerships between the Italian institution and Florida universities. 

“Italy is the ninth largest foreign direct investor in Florida by employment,” said Florida Secretary of State Secretary Cord Byrd. “By connecting and collaborating with Italian universities to develop our cultural and economic partnerships, Florida can continue to build a dynamic workforce with students and graduates from the Florida/Italy partnering universities.” 

Additionally, Florida delegates in the life sciences industry met with representatives from the Milano Innovation District to lay the groundwork for potential collaboration. 

Read more about today’s activities here.