Itasca Project
Why Regional Economic Competitiveness?


Competition is intensifying

The Minneapolis/St. Paul region is competing with focused, well-organized regions that are deliberately driving their economic development and enhancing the livability of their communities.

We need strong public and private leadership

Resolving complex issues – for example, addressing socio-economic disparities – is beyond the scope and capabilities of any one group and any single jurisdiction. We can make the progress we need only through active cooperation among the public, nonprofit and business sectors.    

Resources are finite

Public and private resources are limited and strained. We can maximize the return on our collective community investments by acting regionally, working collaboratively, and focusing on the most critical needs of the region.