Minnsights Blog

The 2020 recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic rippled across the global economy with unprecedented speed and severity. Minnesota reported its first case of the novel coronavirus on March 6. Within weeks, the state experienced a statewide lockdown, and by the end of April – a mere seven weeks after the first reported case – Minnesota had lost over 13% of its total employment and nearly 614,000 Minnesotans filed claims for unemployment insurance, marking the steepest economic downturn in over 70 years. 

Innovation has long been a strength of Minnesota’s economy and culture. Business has driven this trend, creating products, services and systems that change the world, all while creating jobs and a high quality of life throughout the state.

As 2020 comes to a close, looking ahead to 2021 provides hope for Minnesota businesses on the road to recovery. The New Year and the advent of a COVID-19 vaccine creates hope for new opportunities and a hastened road to economic recovery.  And the Minnesota Chamber Foundation – led by a dynamic board of directors – is positioned to emerge as a key resource and change agent on behalf of Minnesota businesses and our state’s economy.

Minnesota is known for the strength of its manufacturing. And no one embodies this more than those that manufacture parts for other manufacturers. Clow Stamping has done this for 50 years in Minnesota, sustaining a workforce and creating good-paying jobs in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

Minnesota’s economy thrives because of its breadth and diversity. Where the state lags in some areas, it excels in others. Some businesses experience challenges imposed by Minnesota’s competitiveness while also illustrating the best that the economy has to offer. Stratasys is an example leading in innovation that will aid Minnesota’s economic success and help propel the state toward economic recovery.