The Southern Minnesota Regional Competitiveness Project identified five emerging industries for the region:
• Renewable Energy and Supporting Businesses. "Of note, renewables means many things throughout the region — wind, cellulosic ethanol, biomass, geothermal, new waste gasification technologies, and the University of Minnesota’s work on hydrogen-powered cars," the project report said.
• Agriculture and Bioscience. "This opportunity is being driven by a three-fold convergence in science. Agricultural, medical, and animal health research are all moving to common scientific ground as scientists unlock the power of DNA." the report said.
• Healthcare and Services for Elderly. "The aging population and the region’s outstanding health care institutions provide the foundation for continued growth in the healthcare sector."
• Local and Organic Foods. "The local foods industry is expanding, building on growing demand from consumers who want to know their food’s origin."
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• Tourism. "Activity-based tourism is seen as growing in the area, with emphasis on a new network of hiking and biking trails in the region, complemented by an emerging cluster of restaurants and entertainment."
