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.
IIHF World Junior Championship delivers $71.5 million boost to Minnesota economy
An Extension analysis shows strong economic returns with visitors at the heart of the event.
Land and housing are driving rural wealth growth
Property values saw the greatest growth in the most rural counties in Minnesota between 2021 and 2024.
Tracking wealth growth across Minnesota
Rural counties outpace urban areas in wealth growth — but both face critical window for ensuring assets stay within local communities.
Rural entrepreneurs lead the way — but say support still falls short
Across Minnesota and Wisconsin, entrepreneurship is alive and well — and, in many cases, thriving more in rural communities than in urban ones.
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.
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.