Frequently Asked Questions About Doing Business in St. Cloud
As Minnesota’s twelfth-largest city, St. Cloud is “just the right size.” It’s large enough to provide the best in big-city business, entertainment, and lifestyle amenities, but with a small-town feel of comfort and community in a college-town setting.
As companies rethink global supply chains and explore onshoring opportunities, St. Cloud offers an aligned, high-tech haven and manufacturing environment with the infrastructure, workforce and quality of life companies need to grow.
Are you looking to benefit from one of Minnesota's fastest-growing labor forces, our shovel-ready industrial sites, and vibrant culture? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions that can help make an expansion or new investment possible in St. Cloud.
For more information, please contact the St. Cloud Economic Development Authority at 320-650-3111.
Business Retention & Expansion
What industries is St. Cloud focused on growing?
St. Cloud is focused on four higher-wage industries with strong potential for investment and job growth:
These industries build on the region's existing business base and workforce while positioning St. Cloud to compete for new investment and emerging opportunities.
Why is St. Cloud targeting automation, IT, food manufacturing and precision manufacturing?
These industries represent opportunities where St. Cloud can build on what it already does well while attracting new investment. They also align with broader trends in advanced manufacturing, technology and supply-chain resiliency, creating opportunities for both existing companies and businesses considering a new location.
Is St. Cloud interested in companies looking to bring production back to the U.S.?
Absolutely. St. Cloud sees an opportunity to compete for small- to mid-sized investments from companies looking to onshore or expand production in the U.S.
The community's existing manufacturing base, workforce and infrastructure provide a foundation for companies looking for a place to grow closer to their customers and supply chains.
How does the St. Cloud EDA help businesses that want to expand?
That may include help with site and building searches, workforce connections, financing and incentives, permitting or other local resources.
The goal is simple: help businesses already in St. Cloud grow. And make it easier for new businesses to invest here.
Workforce Attraction
What kinds of career opportunities are available in St. Cloud?
St. Cloud offers career opportunities across a range of industries, including high-wage jobs in automation, information technology, food manufacturing and precision manufacturing. The St. Cloud EDA helps showcase these opportunities so current and prospective residents can see the careers available right here in the community.
Do I have to move to the Twin Cities to find a high-paying career?
No. St. Cloud is home to employers offering high-wage careers in growing industries. From advanced manufacturing and automation to information technology and food manufacturing, residents can build rewarding careers without leaving the St. Cloud area.
Where can I find job opportunities in St. Cloud?
The St. Cloud EDA helps connect people with career opportunities at local employers and highlights the range of jobs available throughout the community.
Whether you're entering the workforce, changing careers or looking for your next opportunity, St. Cloud offers pathways to careers close to home.
Why should I build my career in St. Cloud?
A great career doesn't have to come with a big-city commute.
St. Cloud offers opportunities to build a career, put down roots and enjoy the benefits of living in a growing regional center, without needing to relocate to the Twin Cities.
Downtown Development
What is St. Cloud's vision for downtown?
St. Cloud is working toward a more active, walkable downtown where people can live, work, shop, dine and gather throughout the day and into the evening.
Our Comprehensive and Downtown Plan, shaped through extensive community input, provides a roadmap for new housing, riverfront development, improved pedestrian connections and amenities that can support a more vibrant downtown.
What opportunities are there for downtown redevelopment?
St. Cloud's downtown plan identifies significant opportunities for new investment and redevelopment.
The vision includes 500–800 new high-density residential units, an 1,800-seat riverfront arena and hotel, a continuous Mississippi Riverwalk, stronger connections to St. Cloud State University and additional everyday amenities, including a downtown grocery store.
How is St. Cloud supporting downtown businesses and entrepreneurs?
A thriving downtown needs more than buildings; it needs businesses that give people a reason to visit, stay and return.
The EDA supports small businesses, retailers, restaurants and hospitality businesses as they explore opportunities to locate, expand or invest downtown, while working with property owners and developers on redevelopment opportunities.
Why invest in downtown St. Cloud?
Downtown St. Cloud is entering a period of intentional investment and redevelopment, guided by a community-supported vision for its future.
New housing, riverfront amenities, pedestrian connections, hospitality and commercial opportunities can create new customers and new reasons for people to spend time downtown, creating opportunities for businesses and developers willing to be part of what's next.
