International exchange doesn’t just impact schools and families—it benefits Kalamazoo businesses too. When companies participate in international exchange programs through Global Ties Kalamazoo, they become part of a vibrant network that sparks innovation, forges new partnerships, and builds both brand and community resilience.

2025’s Advancing Research Security cohort at Stryker

Why Businesses Engage in International Exchange

Kalamazoo businesses join international exchange programs not only for goodwill but to gain global insights, cultural connections, and innovative partnerships. Global Ties Kalamazoo bridges local leaders and global experts, linking entrepreneurs like Nicole Triplett, founder of Black Wall Street Kalamazoo and institutions such as KVCC with visitors from Africa, Europe, and Latin America to foster mutual growth and collaboration.

Jodi Hope Michaels, Executive Director of Global Ties Kalamazoo (GTK) observes, “International people here for a short but intense experience see how cool this community can be—its resources, collaboration, and potential.” She emphasizes that the excitement is mutual: “If you’re a business in Kalamazoo, you get to see that excitement too—engaging around shared challenges makes locals want to grow here.” The value of the international perspective is real and tangible for everyone, from new economic possibilities to the sense that Kalamazoo belongs on the world stage.

Tangible Benefits for Companies

Talent & Workforce Development: Employees gain cross-cultural skills, building adaptability and global competence by engaging directly with international visitors.
Innovation & Insight: Businesses gain access to world-class expertise. Emma Baratta recalls how Room 35 “is using their Peruvian fellow's AI education platform, Excuela, to help participants in their programs study for certification exams and make their way through Room 35's program content with additional support.”
Visibility & Brand Alignment: Companies gain recognition as globally minded, community-invested organizations, and strengthen their role as local leaders.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Alignment: As Michaels notes, “Face-to-face human experiences are much more valuable than an online module.” Participation in exchange programs fits seamlessly with corporate giving priorities, providing visible, lasting impact.

Case Study: Stryker

Stryker is a shining example of impactful engagement. As a corporate host for site visits and professional exchanges, Stryker has provided its workforce with invaluable international insights. Anita Mehta, Director of Social Impact, says:

“At Stryker, participating in international exchange initiatives with Global Ties Kalamazoo has energized our team and enriched our company’s perspective. By welcoming global leaders and professionals into our workplace, our employees gain firsthand insights that broaden their cultural skills and inspire creative thinking. This engagement not only enhances our workforce but also demonstrates our shared commitment to innovation and to the broader Kalamazoo community.”

This commitment leads to real results—fresh ideas, a stronger workforce, and deeper community impact.

Anita Mehta, Stryker’s Director of Social Impact pictured in the red jacket along with the 2024 cohort of Women in Stem program for the Indo-Pacific.

The Bigger Picture: Business + Citizen Diplomacy

International exchange is not just for nonprofits and individuals—businesses are vital to Kalamazoo’s citizen diplomacy ecosystem. By participating in these programs, companies help shape the city’s global reputation.

Michaels notes that ongoing relationships have blossomed, such as the collaboration between GTK and El Concilio, built from a foundation of trust and legitimacy through exchange. “International exchange is truly for everyone—whether you’re a single-owner bakery or a large manufacturer, you gain as much as you give,” she says.

Work With Us

There are multiple ways Kalamazoo businesses can support international exchange. Now is the perfect time for Kalamazoo businesses to:

Partner with Global Ties Kalamazoo on future exchanges and professional visits.
Explore fiscal sponsorship opportunities that help fund delegations and community programs. Email us to learn more.
Host delegations at your offices or facilities for tours, workshops, and professional exchanges. Learn more here.
Encourage employees to volunteer or join dinner diplomacy events, sharing Kalamazoo’s unique culture with global visitors.
Review current opportunities here: Global Ties Kalamazoo current programs to see if there is a fit for your company.
Inquire about tailored engagement, from single events to ongoing professional partnerships (info@globaltieskzoo.org).

These actions elevate corporate social responsibility while serving as a strategic investment in the talent and the wellbeing of Kalamazoo’s workforce and community.

Every additional company that joins multiplies the impact—strengthening the entire community and ensuring Kalamazoo’s reputation as an innovative, welcoming, globally connected city. Get involved today and join the growing circle of businesses powering Kalamazoo’s global growth.