Dear Friends of Switzerland,
Welcome to the official website of the Consulate General of Switzerland in Chicago.
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the digital home of Switzerland in the American Midwest. From our base in the heart of Chicago, we strengthen relations with state and local authorities in our jurisdiction in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
Our shared history runs deeper than many realize. Swiss pioneers played a vital role in building the Midwest. From the founding of New Glarus, Wisconsin, to the farming communities in downstate Illinois and Indiana, Swiss immigrants brought with them not only a love for freedom but also skills in agriculture, watchmaking, and carpentry that helped shape this region’s identity. Even today, traces of our heritage can be found in local architecture, cheese-making traditions, and family names across the heartland.
That spirit of enterprise has grown into one of the most dynamic trade relationships anywhere in the world. Switzerland is a major investor in the Midwest, and the numbers speak for themselves: Swiss companies employ over 80,000 people across the Midwest. Global leaders such as ABB, Roche, Nestlé, Sika, Holcim, and Georg Fischer have deep roots here, driving innovation in pharmaceuticals, industrial machinery, food production, and construction materials. Conversely, Midwestern giants like Caterpillar, Kraft Heinz, SC Johnson and 3M have chosen Switzerland as their European headquarter, benefiting from our stable, business-friendly environment. Bilateral trade between Switzerland and the U.S. consistently tops $100 billion annually, with the Midwest serving as an indispensable pillar of that success.
Our team is committed to strengthening all aspects of the Swiss interests and fosters exchanges in areas such as trade & investment, tourism, culture, science & technology and education. These activities are carried out in close coordination with our official representation network in the United States and in collaboration with other Swiss organizations such as the Swiss Business Hub, swissnex and Switzerland Tourism. At the same time, we are keen to explore new approaches and remain open to fresh ideas and initiatives in these fields.
Whether you are a Swiss citizen far from the Alps, a business leader exploring opportunities, a student, or a curious visitor - we are here to guide you.
I finally invite you to visit the website Swiss Impact to learn more about Switzerland’s positive impact across the United States. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube.
For further information, do not hesitate to contact us directly via email at chicago@eda.admin.ch; my motivated team makes every effort to provide assistance, information and contacts.
With warm regards,
The Consul General of Switzerland
Beat Schmid
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