Economic development
Helping communities navigate their economic future
Extension helps Minnesota communities develop an economic strategy. Through applied research, education, and consultation, communities can choose a path supported by community members.
Our community economics educators consult with regions and communities in Minnesota. These consultations help communities tailor their approach to addressing local concerns on topics such as:
- Attracting new residents
- Informing retail recovery in 87 counties
- Retaining community businesses
- Supporting rural business succession
- Strengthening community support for entrepreneurs
- Understanding local economy changes
Looking for ways to inform and support your community? Find below community-economic focused news articles, research reports, webinars and events.
News
Read about Extension community economic research and community stories.
Tourism Center examines equitable access along Lake Superior’s North Shore
An ongoing study identifies constraints to water-based recreation among Minnesota’s Black population.
What’s important for business transitions in Minnesota?
Who do business owners turn to for advice? Read what Extension learned in our Minnesota business succession and transition study.
New growth for agritourism
Minnesota's showcase of rural innovation expands, yet has more potential for success.
Calculating the economic impact of festivals and events
Festivals and events have both direct and indirect economic impacts on local economies. Extension impact studies help communities understand the cost and benefit of local tourism.
Community research
Discover Extension research reports to help your community and community leaders find answers to critical questions.
Willmar age-friendly community survey results
Social interaction was the highest-rated factor that might drive respondents to move away as they age. Read more key findings.
Hmong International Freedom Festival: 2023 attendee/vendor survey and economic contribution
The 2023 festival generated $4.5 million in economic activity. Read more findings.
Potential economic impact of expanding homecoming offerings at Minnesota State University, Mankato
Increasing non-student attendance by 25% to 3,621 would increase the total economic impact to $392,726. Read more key findings from Extension's report.
Economic impact of Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Athletic Park event attendees, 2023
Attendees generated $317,433 in economic activity in summer 2023 and supported 10 jobs in the community. Read more findings.
Videos
Watch Extension educators share their research, analysis and insight on topics important to our local communities. Visit our YouTube page for more videos.
Podcasts
Listen to conversations with community leaders and members about vital economic topics.
Rural-urban workforce opportunities
() Minnesotans in rural and urban areas help grow our diverse economy. Listen as we discuss current challenges…
Rural-urban economic interdependence
() What do jobs and other economic factors look like in rural Minnesota? How about urban Minnesota? Listen as we…
REVing up entrepreneurship
() How do you inspire entrepreneurship in your community? Listen as we talk about a framework used to energize…
Blog articles
Extension is partnering with UMN Duluth Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BBER). Their agreement encourages collaboration on projects impacting northeastern Minnesota. Some of the community economic-focused articles on the BBER blog are tied to this partnership.
Consult with us
Community economics • Leadership and civic engagement • Tourism
Extension educators work in communities with partners throughout Minnesota. Contact us for consultation, guidance and conversation about your community.