Canada is Illinois largest tourism market. In the last year, the Illinois General Assembly passed, and Governor Ryan signed, legislation to allocate annual funding to promote International Tourism. Since January, we have participated in a number of trade, economic development and tourism events across Canada, including here in Toronto, as well as in Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax, Calgary and Vancouver. Many of these events have been held in partnership with the U.S. Commercial Service and the Council Of American States In Canada. Again, a primary mandate of our activities is to help Illinois companies find business partners in Canada, as well as to encourage Canadian firms to choose Illinois as a site for their business expansion.
Personal relationships are important for business transactions.
We re also giving away some prizes, including roundtrip airfare and accommodations in Chicago. I hope everyone gets a flavor of what we have to offer and enjoys themselves.