MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) – Ryan Vesey, Economic Development Director at Greater Mankato Growth, and Keri Johnson, a Saint Peter City Council member, recently joined a delegation to Ireland focused on strengthening economic ties and attracting new business opportunities. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to stimulate regional development in south-central Minnesota. n nVesey highlighted the strong trade relationship between Minnesota and Ireland, noting that Ireland ranks as the state’s sixth-largest buyer of goods, while also being a major source of imports into Minnesota. This existing commercial link, he said, presents a strategic opportunity for collaboration. n nJohnson emphasized the importance of building connections with Irish companies considering expansion into the U.S. market. During the visit, the delegation promoted Nicollet and Blue Earth Counties as ideal locations for new enterprises, showcasing local infrastructure, workforce readiness, and community support systems. n n”Our area already has a dynamic economy, but maintaining that momentum requires proactive engagement,” Johnson remarked. She noted that public funding supported the trip, with the expectation of long-term economic returns through job creation and population retention. n nThe Regional Economic Development Alliance (REDA), formed in 2009 by several local governments including Nicollet and Blue Earth Counties, coordinates such efforts to align regional growth strategies. Vesey described the alliance as essential for ensuring cohesive progress: “It’s about moving in the same direction and working collectively toward shared goals.” n nTo further engage stakeholders, REDA will host a conference on October 21, targeting educational institutions, government agencies, and local organizations interested in understanding the region’s economic roadmap. n— news from KEYC News Now
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The Regional Economic Development Alliance of Greater Mankato explains visit to Ireland for economic growth
MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) – Greater Mankato Growth’s Economic Development Director Ryan Vesey and Saint Peter City Council Member Keri Johnson participated in a trip to Ireland with the goal of economic growth. n nVesey explains, why Ireland? “When we look at Minnesota and Irish relationships in particular, Minnesota’s 6th largest purchaser of goods, is Ireland. And similarly on the other side Ireland is one of the largest exporters to Minnesota,” Vesey said. n nIt’s that established relationship that Johnson believes can be built upon in this area. “We also wanted to make connections with businesses that are hoping to expand to the United States.” n nJohnson said they showcased how the Nicollet and Blue Earth County areas are equipped to house new businesses to build on an already growing area. n n“Our region is already so vibrant. But you have to do the work to continue to ensure that vibrancy,” Johnson explained. n nWhich, Vesey says, is why Nicollet County, Blue Earth County, and some cities within have formed the Regional Economic Development Alliance back in 2009. n nVesey said, “That allows us to make sure that we’re moving a direction that’s the same direction as the cities are moving in, and we can row that boat together.” n nJohnson says this trip was paid for with taxpayer dollars in hopes of a return on the investment. n n“It’s going to create jobs, it’s going to make young people want to stay here, live here, work here. It’s all about sustainability and smart growth and ensuring that our region is a great place to live,” Johnson said. n nThe Regional Economic Development Alliance is holding a Conference on Oct. 21 primarily for educational, governmental and local organizations that want to learn more about the economic development plan. n nClick here to download the KEYC News Now app or our KEYC First Alert weather app.