Economic Development

Today, the Midwest is home to major sectors of the U.S. economy - manufacturing, agriculture, energy (both renewable and fossil fuels) and tourism. At a time when the Midwest continues to experience jobs losses and a challenging economic outlook, governors persistently seek opportunities to expand the economic growth and development in their individual states and the region.

America continues to be the largest manufacturer in the world, with the Midwest contributing significantly toward the country's output. New energy industries in the Midwest are emerging as focal points for job creation and retention. A number of recent studies suggest that new energy industries can create as many as 1.2 million jobs over the next decade, with as much as a third of those in high-wage, high-skill manufacturing and construction jobs. Click here for more information on the governors' efforts to create and retaining jobs in the new energy economy.

The success and growth of these industries and the economic vitality of the region hinge on access to safe, convenient, reliable and affordable transportation. Transportation also continues to be a driver of economic development. For more information on the MGA's transportation policies, click here.

Strong rural communities continue to be a priority for the region's governors. Even with this high quality of life, rural communities have unique challenges building and maintaining economic activity that supports high quality and well paying employment opportunities. To address these specific needs, Midwestern governors developed policies dedicated to rural issues. To learn more of this focus, please click here.