This program will feature panelists from the US Department of Commerce (USDoC), private sector companies engaged in African investment, and African University representatives. The panel will begin with a brief overview of the landscape of US investment in Africa from Robert Telchin (US DoC), after which panelists will give brief remarks about their experiences with private sector engagement in Africa. The panelists will then engage in a dialogue with the audience about the potential of innovative partnerships to shape future engagement among African and global universities; private sector investors; non-governmental and governmental actors and others to meet global challenges.

Speaker Robert Telchin, Senior International Trade Specialist, Office of Africa The Private Sector Forum will focus on partnership among US and African private sector actors, African Universities and MSU leadership towards enhancing investment with positive impact for Africas future. This panel program will be followed by an interactive question and answer session. The Global Business Club of Mid-Michigan focuses on global issues of interest to the mid-Michigan business community. The monthly GB Club luncheons provide outstanding speakers and relaxed networking opportunities. With extensive international experience, the speakers wrap personal insights around a practical and up-to-the-minute approach to conducting international trade.