DETROIT, Dec. 10, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)/PlanetM, today announced the return of the highly successful business-to-business "Match Meetings" on Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2019, from noon – 4 p.m.
Over 500 matchmaking business development meetings took place at the 2018 NAIAS, promoting new connections and collaborations among technology startups, automakers, suppliers and venture capitalists.
"In its inaugural year, the AutoMobili-D Match Meetings at NAIAS have generated over $10 million in investment and contracts between corporations, investors and startups," said Seun Phillips, PlanetM Director. "Over 75 startups applied for meetings, each having the ability to participate in up to 20 meetings – translating into unmatched business development opportunities and exposure to key audience groups."
MEDC, PlanetM and NAIAS, along with Techstars Mobility, will again arrange a series of vetted, prescheduled meetings for participating AutoMobili-D and NAIAS exhibitors. The meetings will be held during the first day of Industry Preview, an event synonymous with attracting 40,000 automotive and mobility experts from around the world.
"The North American International Auto Show is a global stage for game-changing companies to demonstrate and debut technologies on future mobility and transportation platforms," said 2019 NAIAS Chairman Bill Golling. "What better way to promote continued collaboration and tap into the talent and energy of mobility innovators than through focused matchmaking spearheaded by the State of Michigan."
Building upon the success of the past two years, AutoMobili-D, a 150,000 square-foot exposition, returns to the 2019 NAIAS featuring a wide range of automakers, suppliers, investors and tech startups showcasing and discussing future mobility platforms. A powerful A-list, including mobility experts and C-suite executives are scheduled to participate in AutoMobili-D symposiums and panel discussions.
MEDC and PlanetM, the state's partnership branding initiative to foster, retain and grow the mobility sector and position Michigan as the global epicenter for future transportation, will again have a significant role in supporting AutoMobili-D in 2019.
Mobility startups, corporations and investors can sign up for Match Meetings at naias.com.
About the North American International Auto Show
In its 31st year as an international event, the NAIAS is the most influential annual automotive event in the world. NAIAS is where future mobility innovations meet the pavement. With the largest concentration of the world's top automotive and technology executives, designers, engineers and thought leaders, NAIAS serves as the global stage for companies to debut brand-defining vehicles and industry-shaping announcements. NAIAS is unmatched in the industry in presenting six unique shows in one, including: The Gallery, an ultra-luxury automotive event, AutoMobili-D, an inside look at future mobility platforms, Press Preview, Industry Preview, Charity Preview and then concluding with a nine-day Public Show.
For more information, visit naias.com.
Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for highlights and updates.
2019 NAIAS Dates:
The Gallery: Saturday, January 12
Press Preview: Monday – Tuesday, January 14-15
AutoMobili-D: Monday – Thursday, January 14-17
Industry Preview: Wednesday – Thursday, January 16-17
Charity Preview: Friday, January 18
Public Show: Saturday – Sunday, January 19-27
SOURCE North American International Auto Show
