Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda kicked off the Arizona–Baja California Mission this week, a strategic push to turn the region into a binational megaregion fueled by innovation and joint growth.
Held at CETYS University, the event brought together key playres from both sides of the border: the Arizona Commerce Authority, the Arizona Mexico Commission, and delegates from Phoenix, Tucson, and Yuma. They were joined by academic leaders, development agencies, and economic chambers, all working to align government, industry, and academia around a shared agenda.
“This mission is the next step in our long-term strategic partnership. We want deeper government cooperation, stronger business ties, and expanded academic and scientific collaboration,” the governor said.
She highlighted how both economies fit together, especially when it comes to the semiconductor, aerospace, medical devices, and biotech sectors. Her message highlighted the importance of connecting university talent directly to the industry, creating high-value jobs and sparking real innovation.
The governor also pointed to record-breaking public and private investment in Baja California, alongside steady growth in foreign direct investment, driven by major infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects.
Eva Masadiego, Executive Director of the Arizona–Baja California Mission, called the gathering a turning point as it marks the start of a closer, more action-driven collaboration that will build lasting alliances that will drive economic development and regional integration for years to come.
Kurt Honold Morales, the state’s Secretary of Economy and Innovation, added that Baja California has earned international recognition for its talent development and educational partnerships, a key reason why investors are choosing the state over others in Mexico.
Running from April 19 to 21, the meeting includes government meetings, business matchmaking, tours of leading tech and manufacturing companies, and strategic networking events.
