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
Economic development during COVID-19
Looking for ways to inform and support your community during these uncertain times? Find below community-economic focused news articles, research reports, webinars and events.
News
Read about Extension community economic research and community stories.
Connecting Minnesota’s entrepreneurial communities
Minnesota's communities thrive when entrepreneurs have opportunities to flourish. Read about Extension's third annual Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities conference.
How will the tourism economy recover from COVID-19?
Tourism is a cornerstone of Minnesota’s economy. Learn about the potentially longer-lasting economic effects of COVID-19 and what that means for our tourism communities.
COVID-19 takes its toll on Minnesota’s craft brewing industry
Job and revenue loss and postponed expansions are part of the impact on Minnesota breweries from COVID-19.
Latino businesses face barriers to COVID-19 relief funds
Latino-owned businesses in Minnesota deal with added disparities in their access to state and federal COVID-19 relief programs.
Podcasts
Listen to conversations with community leaders and members about vital economic topics.
Minnesota tourism during the pandemic
(10/22/2020) The tourism industry has been impacted by the pandemic. Listen as we discuss the state of Minnesota’s tourism…
Impacts on retail
(6/10/2020) COVID-19 has impacted businesses differently. Listen as we discuss the impacts of COVID-19 on retail and the…
Economists on the economy
(6/3/2020) Today, the dial is moving, and businesses are reopening. What can communities do to support business now?…
Community research
Discover Extension research reports to help your community and community leaders find answers to critical questions.
Economic impact of projects leveraged by the Minnesota Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit: fiscal year 2020
Read an analysis of the Minnesota Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit and learn how it is impacting industry output, labor and employment.
Lonsdale Connecting Businesses and Community Program
Economic development leaders and community volunteers have worked together since 2018 to make the CBC program happen in Lonsdale. Learn about their process and results.
Minnesota grape production statistics: 2020
Grape growers in Minnesota were surveyed about their grape production. Read a summary of the 2020 harvest season and get estimates of pricing and trends.
Economic impacts of COVID-19: Southeast Minnesota
Public-private partnerships to connect the labor force with jobs was one of many ideas for supporting Southeast Minnesota's economy. Learn more about this workshop.
Videos
Watch Extension educators share analysis and insight on research topics important to our local communities. Visit our YouTube page for more videos.
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.