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Business trip to Chicago
September 13th to 19th, 2026
What can you expect on the business trip?
This business trip to Chicago and the surrounding area provides you with direct access to innovative production solutions. You will have the opportunity to Contact with technology providers, startups, and industry partners, while gaining valuable insights into current industrial developments in the USA.
An exciting program awaits you in and around Chicago, Illinois, complemented by excursions to Wisconsin and Indiana. With the guidance of Daniel Feldkamp, a regional expert and market entry specialist, your US plans can move forward concretely and steadily! Take advantage of this opportunity!
Itinerary & stops The following stops are on the agenda, each offering valuable industry insights for the participants.
Your benefits – Why this trip is particularly relevant for Thuringian companies Participation offers you:
This trip is being prepared and accompanied by Daniel Feldkamp, the Thuringian foreign representative for the USA, and the Lotus FDI team.
This will provide concrete, professional and sustainable support for your US activities.
Target group, travel dates & travel costs
Target audience – Who is this trip aimed at?
The corporate trip is aimed at CEOs, management and sales of:
The registration deadline is July 10, 2026
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Chicago 2026 Business Trip
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When will the company trip to Chicago take place?
The company trip to Chicago will take place from September 13th to 19th, 2026. The recommended travel options are Lufthansa direct flights LH430 (Frankfurt → Chicago) on September 13th and LH431 (Chicago → Frankfurt) on September 18th. The trip concludes with arrival in Frankfurt on September 19th, 2026.
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What stops are included in the business trip to Chicago?
The business trip includes several key stops in the USA. The centerpiece is a visit to the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS), one of the most important events for robotics, automation, and smart manufacturing. In addition, the delegation will visit two other significant industrial regions:
- Indiana – with insights into the local manufacturing and technology scene as well as a visit to the renowned Purdue University in Lafayette, including a tour and workshop of the Faculty of Automation and Robotics.
- Wisconsin – with a focus on smart manufacturing best practices and company visits to leading industrial companies such as Rockwell Automation.
This combination provides a comprehensive overview of current trends, technologies and partner networks in the US industrial sector.
- Indiana – with insights into the local manufacturing and technology scene as well as a visit to the renowned Purdue University in Lafayette, including a tour and workshop of the Faculty of Automation and Robotics.
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Who can participate in the company trip?
The trip is aimed at CEOs, managing directors, management, sales teams, as well as research institutions and user companies involved in smart manufacturing, aerospace, medical technology, the automotive industry, environmental and energy technology, robotics, Industry 4.0, automation technology, AI-supported manufacturing, or electronic components. It is ideal for companies that want to learn about the latest developments in the US industrial sector and meet potential partners.
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What are the costs associated with the trip?
The trip includes a mandatory meal allowance of €500. Additional costs include flights (approx. €1,400 Economy, approx. €2,800 Premium Economy, €5,000 Business) and 5 hotel nights (approx. €300 per night), which are to be borne individually. Optional extras such as the organization of business meetings can be booked separately.
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Are there optional services or individual consultation options?
Yes. Upon request, at least two individual business meetings with potential partners or exhibitors will be arranged in connection with the AUTOMATE trade fair. This service is optional and costs €750. The aim is to facilitate concrete business developments and valuable Contact for Thuringian companies.
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When is the registration deadline?
The The registration deadline is July 10, 2026Early registration is recommended to allow for optimal preparation of input (interests, discussion requests).
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Your contact person
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