News

The May 2025 MAEDC Best Practices Conference blended learning with memorable experiences across Stillwater, MN for leaders from 13 Midwest states. These curated experiences brought regional stories to life and deepened connections between public leaders, consultants, and economic development professionals.Experiences make economic development personalAttendees networked over retro games at The Lumberjack, enjoyed a farm-to-table dinner and live music at Howard’s Bar, and explored development efforts via a scenic trolley tour. The Tattersall Distillery tour showcased solar-powered sustainability in action, while a private St. Croix Riverboat cruise offered fine dining and relaxed conversation.Read more about this tremendously successful #BestPractices2025!

At #BestPractices2025, consultants and site selectors emphasized a core truth: successful economic development begins with listening. Duane Poppe, Jessica Mogilka, Justin Erickson, David Hickey, and John Shoffner spoke to the importance of understanding a company's business model and long-term goals.Best Practices Conference reminds development is about solvingThe consultants explained how data, talent pipelines, and infrastructure shape where companies choose to invest. And regions, communities, etc., that speak with a unified voice and alignment across government, utilities, education, and business will be the ones to build confidence and momentum with prospects.Learn more about how the #BestPractices 2025 offered instructional assistance toward...

Our 2025 Best Practices Conference showcased how Midwest communities are leading through innovation through initiatives in numerous industries. Utilities like Xcel Energy, Great River Energy, and Minnesota Power shared strategies for modernizing the grid and accelerating clean energy.Leaders in aviation revealed the region’s pivotal role in sustainable fuel initiatives. Minnesota’s Medical Alley exemplifies how MedTech ecosystems can transform regions. Best Practices Conference was an innovation showcaseEntrepreneurs in food and agriculture are revitalizing rural economies. Community leaders are enhancing their small-town vibrancy with Main Street advancements. Tech-forward startups are supporting strong ecosystems. The underlying message of the 2025 Best Practices Conference was clear: innovation,...

Stillwater, MN, was the stage for compelling conversations in Midwest economic development at the MAEDC Best Practices Conference 2025. The powerful keynote from Mike McShea and Anne Rahm of CBRE spoke to the essential role of public-private partnerships in building resilient communities. Collaboration and CommunityA collaborative theme extended through all the panels, including “The Power of Community Engagement,” on the inclusive redevelopment of The Heights in St. Paul, MN, to Patrick Seeb’s insights on how Rochester, MN, became a healthcare innovation hub through strategic partnerships with the Mayo Clinic.“Tech-Driven Development” featured a case study on Meta’s $800M data center project in...

The 2025 Mid-America EDC Best Practices Conference in Stillwater, MN brought together public officials, site selectors, utility leaders, and entrepreneurs from 13 Midwest states. The stakeholders spent three days in May discussing challenges and exploring what’s working in economic development.Best Practices Conference: 13 Midwest states; 1 goal: progress!Keynote speakers and featured panels dove into critical topics like workforce innovation and clean energy to revitalizing main streets and tourism. The sessions were as practical as they were inspiring, led by Stillwater’s idyllic setting for this energy and momentum. Learn more today about the conference and prepare to join us in 2026! 

Hosted by the Mid-America Economic Development Council at the JX Venue in Stillwater, Minnesota. Economic developers, public officials, and industry leaders from across 13 Midwest states gathered in Stillwater, MN for the 2025 Best Practices Conference.Over three days, attendees explored cutting-edge strategies in economic development, workforce innovation, clean energy, public private partnerships, and placemaking.'With a strong emphasis on collaboration, community engagement, and sector-specific growth, the conference offered actionable insights, meaningful networking, and immersive learning experiences.Click Here to Download Complete Recap 

As America races toward a greener future, the demand for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has never been higher. Minnesota is seizing the opportunity to break into this emerging industry before the competition, leveraging its agricultural strength to kickstart a hub that could establish the state as a pioneer in SAF production.The Minnesota SAF Hub, a coalition comprising the Greater MSP Partnership, Bank of America, Delta Air Lines, Ecolab, Xcel Energy and other stakeholders, is on a journey to develop a fully integrated SAF supply chain in Minnesota. Read more from our sponsors in Site Selection Magazine …Read More 

By Brandon Marshall, President, MidAmerica Economic Development CouncilWhen 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...