If You Build It, Will They Come? Lessons from U.S. Bank Stadium

Description

In 2012, the State of Minnesota committed to partner with the Minnesota Vikings to build the U.S. Bank Stadium project. The stadium project exceeded workforce participation and business participation goals for people of color, women, and veterans. While widely viewed as a success, the real success within the community and region has been the increase in employment and contracting opportunities within the construction industry, the professional services industry, and the entertainment industry.

This session will explore the downtown development that occurred with the completion of the project. Additionally, speakers will reflect on the post-stadium economic activity that resulted, including Super Bowl LII Business Connect which focused on creating contract and business development opportunities for certified minority, woman, veteran, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender-owned businesses.

Learning Outcomes:

• Learn details of inclusion efforts on the U.S. Bank Stadium project.
• Gain understanding of the impact the efforts had on underrepresented communities.
• Take away tips and strategies to leverage community development projects to maximize employment and economic development within historically underrepresented communities.