Macomb County, through the Department of Planning & Economic Development, is an active member of Automation Alley, the regional technology-cluster serving Southeast Michigan. The organization’s central mission is to assist technology-based businesses in expanding their markets through international trade. Its International Business Center has conducted trade missions to Mexico, China, and Germany, and has also hosted a reverse trade mission of Chinese delegates to Southeast Michigan. The work of the center has helped small and medium size companies become export ready and grow in their understanding of how to succeed in international business through networking and support.

The Automation Alley Technology Center, located in Troy, serves as the headquarters for the regional organization and is where expert staff meet with clients to provide them with a variety of assistance, including help in securing pre-seed and commercialization funding and business plan development. The center also serves as the venue for a variety of events that take place in support of these activities, including technology shows, demonstrations, exhibitions and networking mixers. Through these efforts Automation Alley is helping to promote high-technology investment and international trade in Macomb County and throughout Southeast Michigan.