Oklahoma Chooses Hitachi as Strategic Partner for Economic Innovation and Growth

Oklahoma and Hitachi Form Strategic Partnership

On May 4, 2026, a significant milestone was achieved as the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, alongside Governor Kevin Stitt, announced a new collaboration with Hitachi Ltd. This partnership was formalized during the SelectUSA Investment Summit held by the U.S. Department of Commerce, showcasing a mutual commitment to drive economic development and innovation in the state.

Governor Stitt emphasized the importance of attracting global attention to Oklahoma and highlighted how Hitachi exemplifies the impacts of foreign direct investment combined with public-private partnerships. He stated, "I always talk about bringing Oklahoma to the world and the world to Oklahoma. Hitachi is a perfect example of foreign direct investment... I look forward to continued collaboration with a company that has invested in Oklahoma for nearly 40 years."

Hitachi, known for its cutting-edge technology and industrial products, integrates digital and AI technologies into physical systems, striving to create innovative solutions beneficial to society. The company's long-standing presence in Oklahoma, particularly in Norman where it employs over 200 individuals, reinforces its commitment to the local community.

Under the newly signed Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC), Hitachi aims to collaborate closely with the state in identifying and developing projects within energy infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and digital solutions. Their expertise in merging operational technologies (OT) and information technologies (IT) positions them as a key player in transforming Oklahoma's economic landscape toward sustainable development.

Charlie Takeuchi, President and CEO of Hitachi Americas, expressed pride in their collaboration with Oklahoma, stating, "This agreement reflects our shared ambition to expand our collaboration into the most critical areas that impact society today, including energy, manufacturing, and digital technologies. We look forward to advancing opportunities that support sustainable growth and long-term economic value for the state."

This partnership also coincides with another recent initiative, the Business Expansion Incentive Program (BEIP), whereby Hitachi announced a $4 million investment aimed at enhancing its operational capacity. The funds will go toward acquiring new machinery and equipment designed to facilitate new business opportunities while also cutting energy and maintenance costs, further benefiting the local economy.

CEO of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, John Budd, recognized the significance of the partnership, remarking that "momentum in Oklahoma continues to build, and partnerships like this show that companies around the world are taking notice." He pointed out that Oklahoma's business-friendly environment, bolstered by strong infrastructure and a pro-growth mindset, creates an ideal landscape for foreign investors and long-term success.

As Oklahoma continues to enhance its economic profile through strategic partnerships, the focus remains on ensuring that local employees can thrive, ultimately driving further investment and innovation in the state. The agreement with Hitachi is expected to pave the way for further collaborative projects that will not only impact the economy in the short term but will also lay the groundwork for sustainable practices and technologies in the years to come.

In conclusion, the formalization of this partnership marks a promising chapter in Oklahoma's economic strategy, with Hitachi poised to play a crucial role in the development of key sectors vital to the state's future success. The collaborative efforts between Hitachi and Oklahoma underscore the potential of integrating technology with traditional industries to generate meaningful advancements and opportunities for growth.

In the age of shifting economic dynamics, such partnerships are essential, particularly as states strive to innovate and adapt in a fast-paced global market. Oklahoma and Hitachi's partnership serves as a beacon of what can be achieved through collaborative efforts aimed at prosperity and advancement.