Outcomes

Outcomes from the 2006 ICLV utcomes from the 2006 ICLV

Higher Education

Based on the experience in Fort Collins, CO and example of Colorado State University, both Minnesota State Mankato and South Central College have hired a new dean to focus on economic development and higher education/business relationships.

Livability

Downtown renaissance/revitalization is underway, with much more to come.

The Emy Frentz Arts Guild, inspired by a similar facility in Fort Collins, will be Greater Mankato's central hub for arts inthe community.

Outcomes from the 2005 ICLV

As a direct result of the exceptional participation and interactions of the 2005 inaugural ICLV, a series of forward-thinking projects and activities are underway in the community and tangible progress is already being made.

Downtown/city center development
Exploration of downtown and waterfront development was the number one idea for action advanced by the delegates. A bus tour of the downtown regions of Mankato and North Mankato took place to provide the delegates an opportunity to begin thinking of the possibilities and discuss further plans for development. The cities, as well as private developers are researching possibilities.

Envision 2020
The Envision 2020 process incorporated key long-term planning insights from the first ICLV.

ICLV Institute
A common observation from delegates upon return was the feeling they knew more about the destination community than they did about their own. Opportunities to develop education sessions or events to deepen local understanding are being explored.

Quarterly Series for CEOs
A CEO series is under development to engage area CEOs, chief decision-makers and university/college content experts in meaningful dialogue centered around business organizational and productivity issues.

Transportation Improvements
Region Nine Development Commission convened an examination of transportation and transit systems.

Entrepreneurial Activity
In support of an entrepreneurial environment and emphasis on small business, the following activities are underway:

A comprehensive, portable Business Accelerator program was launched
A locally-pooled equity fund was established
Region Nine Development Commission is strengthening the Small Business Development Center

Arts Culture
Twin Rivers Center for the Arts is being conceptualized to focus on arts, theatre, and museum assets.

Community Growth
The City of Mankato issued a report and assessment on attaining MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) status

Future ICLVs
Delegates recommended that conducting trips annually will best maintain participation and critical momentum.