Economic Development

The city of Duluth is the hub of a thriving region in northeastern Minnesota called the Arrowhead. With $9 billion in annual consumer spending and approximately $2 billion planned for new capital investments, Duluth is positioned to benefit from economic opportunities for years to come. 

Its international seaport accesses the world through the St. Lawrence Seaway. Natural resources such as taconite (iron ore) and timber helped build the area economy and continue to fuel growth today. Duluth and its neighboring communities have benefited from the expansion of new industries in health care, precision manufacturing, metal fabrication and aerospace.

The Duluth International Airport provides state-of-the-art services from high-speed Internet for travellers to 24/7 air traffic control and radar coverage. More than $73.9 million in capital investments at the airport are either completed or pending, including a new and improved fixed-base operator, Category II instrument landing capabilities to minimize delays in foul weather, auto-pay parking system, in-line baggage screening process, and 24-hour U.S. Customs assistance. The airport is also undergoing phase 2 of its $65 million new passenger terminal project.

Retail sales exceed $750 million annually, illustrating Duluth's growing importance as a regional retail-service-recreation center. The tourism component of our city's economy generates more than $400 million per year, creating more than 6,800 jobs directly related to the hospitality industry.

Our dedicated workforce demonstrates a strong work ethic resulting in higher productivity and minimal turnover. Our residents choose to live here because of the area's quality of life and because of our award-winning schools, our 13 college and university campuses and excellent options for health care.

Several organizations proactively partner together to facilitate business expansion and retention.

View a list of the agencies here to assist in your business growth or relocation.

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