Overview

Goal: A strong regional economy that encourages business investment and provides employment opportunities for workers at all skill levels.

The Twin Cities and the state have historically enjoyed a robust economy, characterized by diverse industry, the attraction and retention of a skilled workforce, a tradition of entrepreneurial spirit and an eye toward innovation. Maintaining our high quality of life in any area--from housing to health to education--depends on a strong economy. And, in turn, the vitality of our economy hinges on our continued success in those areas as well.

what's Happening

Our economic measures moved up in the 1990s, then declined with the 2001 recession. For example, real per-capita income now falls below the end-of-century level, and while we used to outperform the U.S. as a whole in growth of economic output, we now just stay even with, or lag behind, the U.S.

Making Connections

Investment in early childhood and later in education helps to ensure a skilled workforce to participate in a diverse economy. The health of our citizens saves money in health care costs and increases regional competitiveness and productivity.