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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...