About

Economic Development Workshops are focused on communities that are seeking either general or specific advice and recommendations on any number of economic development related issues and topics.

Some of the workshop topics that have been addressed by the Foundation in workshop sessions include:

• Downtown development initiatives.
• New industrial park development.
• Forming EDA’s and economic development strategies.
• Redevelopment of underused property and buildings.
• Community strategic economic development planning.

Workshops have been held in South St. Paul, Norwood Young America, Maple Plaine and St.Charles. They are delivered only upon an invitation from the host community, and are not intended to be used to evaluate specific economic development projects that may be under current review in a community.  The intent of the workshop is to provide perspective, guidance, objective advice and direction regarding approaches, best practices, resources and examples of how to address economic development challenges.

The Foundation asks that a community requesting a workshop cover the expenses associated with the workshop such as travel, reproduction costs, lodging (if necessary) and meals.  The Foundation will assemble the team of professional volunteers who are leaders in their disciplines to participate in the workshop, which can be delivered as a 1/2 day or full-day session.

Community Stewardship Grants are available to Minnesota communities requesting a Foundation sponsored Economic Development Workshop, which will cover up to $1,000 in expenses associated with providing the workshop in the community.  

The Minnesota Economic Development Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 private non-profit corporation formed for the purpose of building stronger Minnesota communities through economic development outreach, education, training and research initiatives.

Since its formation in 2003, the Foundation has been committed to cultivating “next generation” economic and community development leaders as a means of building capacity within Minnesota communities that share the goal of sustaining local economic vitality. Matching driven professionals with communities and organizations with a commitment to economic development action produces measurable outcomes for the individuals and communities that the Foundation supports.

The Foundation counts among its many operational and financial partners private corporations including banks, law firms, construction and real estate firms, professional services firms and non-profit entities in addition to a variety of local, county, regional and state government units. To date, more than 50 individuals and organizations have contributed financially to support and sustain the Foundation’s mission. In addition to ongoing partner support, we welcome the addition of new partners who wish to join in and help the Foundation make even greater strides in the future.

The Foundation invites you to explore the opportunities available to you and your organization to benefit from, or contribute to the worthy mission of the Foundation, and we welcome your involvement in working with us in “building stronger Minnesota communities”!

Sincerely,
Minnesota Economic Development Foundation
Patrick Connoy, Chair