United States Heartland China Association

The United States Heartland China Association (USHCA) is a bipartisan, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering collaborative relationships between the U.S. Heartland Region and the People's Republic of China. The organization aims to promote mutual understanding, economic growth, and educational exchanges between the two regions.

History

USHCA was originally founded as the Midwest U.S.-China Foundation by U.S. Senator Adlai Stevenson (IL), John Rodgers, a lawyer and professor, and Governor Bob Holden (MO), former Chairman of the Midwest Governors Association. Over time, it evolved to cover a broader area known as the Heartland Region.

Geographic Scope

The U.S. Heartland Region, as defined by USHCA, includes 21 states stretching from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico. This region is home to over 430 Fortune 1000 companies headquartered in 84 cities within the area and includes 37 of the 100 largest cities in the United States. The economic output of this region is significant, ranking as the world's largest national GDP when considered independently.

Mission and Activities

USHCA's mission is to build stronger ties between the U.S. Heartland Region and China by focusing on trust-building efforts between educational institutions, community groups, business leaders, and governmental officials. The organization supports dialogues and initiatives in areas such as agriculture, education, and commerce, aiming to create a mutually beneficial relationship between the U.S. and China.

USHCA has hosted various events, including the U.S.-China High-Level Agricultural Dialogue, which was held in Des Moines, Iowa. Such events highlight the organization's efforts to enhance cooperation, particularly in agricultural sectors.

Funding

USHCA receives funding primarily from membership fees and grants from foundations like the Henry Luce Foundation and the Ford Foundation. In recent years, the organization has reported significant grants supporting U.S.-China relations and educational exchanges.

Challenges and Controversies

USHCA has faced criticisms, notably being characterized as "pro-China" by some media outlets. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) has highlighted concerns about USHCA's role in facilitating Chinese influence in the United States. Despite these challenges, USHCA maintains its stance on promoting collaborative and beneficial relations between the U.S. and China.