Bloomington hosts first-ever CEO Summit to drive economic growth
Bloomington, MN – Business and community leaders from across Bloomington gathered last week for the inaugural Bloomington CEO Summit, an event designed to foster collaboration, spark innovation, and drive economic development. Hosted by Mayor Tim Busse, the summit brought together business leaders and City officials to build relationships and discuss the future of Bloomington’s business landscape.
“Our overarching theme today is economic development, which is vital to the growth and prosperity of our city,” said Mayor Busse in his opening remarks. “By strengthening relationships among our business leaders, we can make the most of opportunities, solve challenges and build a stronger Bloomington together.”
Bloomington, the fourth-largest city in Minnesota, plays a crucial role in the economic success of the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington region. With a workforce of nearly 87,500 and a diverse business ecosystem spanning corporate headquarters, tourism, hospitality, and emerging industries, Bloomington continues to see reinvestment and new business growth.
Executive-level leaders from Larkin Hoffman, Ziegler Cat, HealthPartners, Metropolitan Airports Commission, TKDA, Mall of America, Seagate, Toro, Donaldson Co., SICK, Polar Semiconductor, Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism, MTL and Minnesota Business Partnership were in attendance. Given the level of engagement, the City anticipates more will take part in future meetings.
Throughout the event, speakers highlighted key economic initiatives, recent development successes, and strategies for removing barriers to business expansion. Discussions focused on job creation, infrastructure improvements, and positioning Bloomington as a top destination for businesses and talent.
Per the post-event survey, one executive said the CEO Summit was "a great networking opportunity and exchange with the City of Bloomington." He went on to say that he looks forward to future events and "the collaboration between companies" that will take place.
Business leaders at the CEO Summit commented that they appreciate this unique effort the City is making to build relationships with businesses. There was also excitement among attendees about the City’s five-year economic development plan and its focus on building an enduring and remarkable community that business leaders can use to lure top talent.
“This summit is just the beginning,” Busse added. “We aim to create an ongoing dialogue with our business community, ensuring that Bloomington remains a desirable place to live, work and invest.”
For more information on the City of Bloomington’s economic development initiatives, visit blm.mn/port.
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