Economic Club of Minnesota

The Economic Club of Minnesota (ECOM) provides a high-profile, non-partisan platform for national and international leaders in business, government and public policy to present their ideas on how Minnesota can better compete and win in an increasingly globalized economy and how America can most effectively provide world leadership.

Robust international trade has and will continue to enhance U.S. and global prosperity and also advance peace. As Adam Smith once said, “If goods don’t cross borders, soldiers will.”  America has been, and must continue to be, a positive force for good in the world. 

The expansion of international trade led adventurous voyageurs to establish a fur trading outpost in what is now Minnesota more than two centuries ago.  Global trade continues to be a foundation of our prosperity today.  Minnesota is a leading exporter of everything from soybeans to Scotch tape. 

Unfortunately, protectionist attitudes are on the ascent in America, threatening the very underpinnings of our well-being and security.  With less than one-quarter of our citizens holding passports, too few Minnesotans have the opportunity to engage the world first hand.  

ECOM’s mission is to provide a forum for vigorous, high-level discussion of issues that affect our competitiveness and security.  Topics will include:

• Simplifying our burdensome tax system to inspire entrepreneurship
• Reforming education so Minnesotans are prepared for the careers of the future
• Providing  our increasingly mobile workforce quality, affordable and portable healthcare and retirement options, while reforming entitlements
• Keeping Minnesota on the cutting edge of innovation
• Continuing America’s leadership in opening world markets and advancing freedom

The speakers at the Economic Club of Minnesota will bring unique perspectives and creative policy approaches that move the debate beyond the status quo and sound-bite politics.  ECOM will continue Minnesota’s long history of demonstrating national leadership and providing cutting edge American policy solutions.