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The Midwest: A Powerhouse of Economic Opportunity, Innovation, and Medical Excellence
By Brandon Marshall, President, MidAmerica Economic Development Council
When we think of economic powerhouses, they often turn their attention to the coasts. But those of us who live and work in the MidAmerica know the truth: this region is the backbone of American industry, innovation, and resilience. From the vast energy resources of my home state, Wyoming, to the thriving medical and research ecosystem of Minnesota, the middle of the country is not just keeping pace — it's setting the standard for sustainable growth and economic vitality.
As we look forward to the upcoming MidAmerica Best Practices Conference in Stillwater, Minnesota, just outside Minneapolis, I want to highlight three key strengths that make our region an economic force: a growing reputation for medical innovation, unmatched manufacturing and logistics network, and natural resource leadership.
Minneapolis: A Global Hub for Medical and Life Sciences Innovation
Our upcoming MidAmerica EDC Annual Conference in Stillwater is taking place in a region that exemplifies another critical strength of the Midwest: medical innovation. Home to Mayo Clinic, Medtronic, Boston Scientific, and the University of Minnesota’s medical research programs, the Minneapolis region is at the forefront of healthcare advancements, medical technology, and biotech investment.
Minnesota consistently ranks among the top states for healthcare outcomes and medical innovation, making it a prime location for companies seeking R&D partnerships, clinical trial opportunities, and access to highly skilled healthcare professionals. With breakthroughs in cardiovascular devices, AI-driven diagnostics, and regenerative medicine, Minneapolis isn’t just shaping the future of healthcare—it’s redefining it.
MidAmerica: America’s Manufacturing and Logistics Powerhouse
Beyond Wyoming, broader MidAmerica is home to a dense and highly integrated manufacturing and logistics network. States like Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio lead in advanced manufacturing, while Illinois and Missouri anchor major transportation hubs that connect the nation. Whether it’s automotive, aerospace, agribusiness, or clean energy, companies benefit from access to raw materials, world-class infrastructure, and a workforce that knows how to build, ship, and innovate.
The MidAmerica region is also emerging as a center for reshoring and supply chain resilience. With global disruptions reshaping where and how companies produce goods, businesses are investing in Midwestern facilities to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, streamline operations, and take advantage of state incentives that promote domestic production.
Wyoming: A Leader in Energy and the Future of Sustainability
Wyoming has long been known for its energy production, providing a steady foundation for industries across MidAmerica and beyond. With abundant coal, oil, and natural gas reserves, the state has powered homes and businesses for generations. But as the global energy landscape shifts, Wyoming is evolving as a leader in carbon capture technology, wind energy, and rare earth mineral extraction—critical components for the next wave of American innovation.
Wyoming is also at the forefront of industrial diversification, leveraging its skilled workforce and pro-business climate to attract manufacturing, data centers, and advanced technology firms. Companies that need affordable energy, strategic logistics, and open space for growth are increasingly looking to Wyoming as the ideal destination.
MidAmerica’s Competitive Advantage: Collaboration and Growth
What ties these regional strengths together is a shared commitment to collaboration, economic diversification, and sustainable growth. Whether it’s medical breakthroughs in Minnesota, manufacturing excellence in Ohio, or energy innovation in Wyoming the Midwest thrives on its ability to adapt, connect, and lead in key industries.
As we gather in Minneapolis for our annual conference, I encourage fellow economic developers, investors, and business leaders to think strategically about how we can further leverage these strengths to drive long-term prosperity. The Midwest is not just a place to do business—it’s a place where businesses succeed, communities thrive, and innovation flourishes.
I look forward to seeing you in Stillwater, where we’ll explore the future of the region’s economic landscape and unlock new opportunities together. In the meantime, connect with me on LinkedIn, and if you’re a new member of MidAmerica, let’s schedule a time to meet.
Sincerely,
Brandon Marshall
Services Director, Wyoming Business Council
President, Mid-America Economic Development Council