1

Economic Development Manager Jobs in Minneapolis, MN

Be Seen First

Economic Development Program Manager Employment Classification: Full-time, Exempt Location: St. Paul, MN Compensation and Benefits: * The compensation range for this role is: $57,000.00 to $67,000.00 ...

Be Seen First

Economic Development Program Manager Employment Classification: Full-time, Exempt Location: St. Paul, MN Compensation and Benefits: * The compensation range for this role is: $57,000.00 to $67,000.00 ...

Business Development Manager Our client is seeking a seasoned Business Development Manager to join ... We are continuously adapting to industry and economic changes to find the right candidates. We ...

Be Seen First

Human Resources Director

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

HR policy development, implementation, and management of annual review and updates. * Work with ... Company Description Brainerd Lakes Economic Development Corporation is helping to hire this ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Economic Development Manager information

See Minneapolis, MN salary details

$32.4K

$107.5K

$161.8K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Minneapolis, MN is $107,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,100.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an economic development manager?

Economic Development Managers are professionals responsible for planning and implementing strategies to boost economic growth within a community, city, or region. They work with government agencies, businesses, and other stakeholders to attract new investments, support local businesses, and create jobs. Their role often involves analyzing economic data, coordinating development projects, and promoting the area to potential investors. By fostering a healthy business environment, they help improve the overall quality of life for residents.

What are some common challenges economic development managers face when balancing community needs with business interests?

Economic Development Managers often navigate the complex task of balancing the goals of attracting new businesses and investments with the needs and concerns of the local community. Challenges can include addressing potential impacts on housing, infrastructure, and the environment while ensuring job creation and economic growth. Success in this role relies on strong stakeholder engagement, transparent communication, and creative problem-solving to find solutions that benefit both the community and business partners. Collaboration with local government, business leaders, and residents is essential for developing sustainable, mutually beneficial strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an economic development manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Economic Development Manager, you need expertise in economic analysis, project management, and community engagement, typically supported by a degree in economics, urban planning, or public administration. Familiarity with GIS tools, economic modeling software, and grant management systems is often required, along with certifications like CEcD (Certified Economic Developer). Strong networking, negotiation, and communication skills help build effective partnerships and foster stakeholder collaboration. These competencies enable Economic Development Managers to drive sustainable growth, attract investment, and successfully implement development initiatives within communities.

What is the difference between Economic Development Manager vs Urban Planner?

AspectEconomic Development ManagerUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, urban planning, or related field; often certifications in economic developmentBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; licensure may be required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, private sectorMunicipalities, government agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on economic growth, business attraction, and job creationFocuses on land use, zoning, and community development

While both roles aim to improve communities, the Economic Development Manager concentrates on economic growth and business development, whereas the Urban Planner focuses on land use and urban design. Their skills and work environments often overlap, but their core objectives differ.

Is economic development a good career path?

Economic development managers plan and implement strategies to improve local economies, often working with government agencies, businesses, and community organizations. The role requires strong analytical, communication, and project management skills, and it can offer opportunities for advancement and community impact. It is considered a stable career with demand in many regions, especially for those with relevant education and experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Minneapolis, MN?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Minneapolis, MN are:

What job categories do people searching Economic Development Manager jobs in Minneapolis, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Minneapolis, MN are:

What cities near Minneapolis, MN are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs?

Cities near Minneapolis, MN with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Minneapolis, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,544 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Director of Economic Development

Minnesota Council of Nonprofits

Brooklyn Center, MN โ€ข On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Responsibilities:Program Development and Sustainability:
  • Lead strategic planning, execution, and evaluation of programs within your impact area (e.g., economic development).
  • Develop metrics and assessment tools to evaluate program effectiveness and impact.
  • Identify opportunities for innovation to address gaps and expand program reach.
  • Collaborate with community members to identify needs and co-create solutions.
  • Attend community and organization-wide events to support growth and visibility.
  • Oversee the day-to-day operations of program implementation, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
  • Directly manage grant reporting, outcome tracking, and compliance with funder expectations.
Staff Development and Engagement:
  • Ability to manage staff to promote professional growth, offering clear development pathways such as 30/60/90 day plans, performance evaluations, and ongoing feedback.
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and engagement that aligns with ACER's mission.
  • Build and lead a high-performing team that embodies the organization's values and vision.
  • Actively support team members in their roles to ensure they are equipped to succeed.
Community and Corporate Partnerships:
  • Establish and cultivate relationships with key community, corporate partners, and government entities to support program growth and sustainability.
  • Collaborate with the Development Team to secure funding, identify new donors, and enhance ACER's visibility within the broader community.
  • Attend relevant conferences, seminars, and events to stay current on trends and best practices in economic and community development.
Organizational Strategy and Growth:
  • Partner with the Executive Director, Associate Director, and other managers to develop cross-departmental strategies that drive organizational growth.
  • Contribute to building a balanced and engaged organizational culture through collaboration and innovation.
  • Support ACER's broader mission by contributing to strategic planning and ensuring alignment across various programs and impact areas.
Corporate and Business Skills:
  • Demonstrated experience in developing and executing funding strategies, including securing corporate sponsorships, public-private partnerships, and government grants.
  • Strong business acumen, including budgeting, financial forecasting, and data-driven decision-making.
  • Expertise in CRM platforms for managing relationships.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Suite for effective project management and reporting.
  • Proven ability to cultivate high-level relationships with corporate partners, funders, and government officials to enhance organizational growth and visibility.
Job Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree is highly preferred. However 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in a nonprofit or related field may substitute for a degree.
  • 12+ years of experience in leadership roles, with a focus on executive management and strategy development.
  • 7+ years of experience working with diverse communities, particularly immigrant and refugee populations.
  • 3+ years of experience in building partnerships, funder relationships, and community engagement.
  • 2-3 years of organizer experience or the willingness to be trained.
  • Exceptional communication, organizational, and time management skills.
  • Ability to develop training materials and lead teams through transformational change.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Knowledge of the Microsoft Suite - Words, Excel, PowerPoint and Google Suite platform. Experience developing training manuals via Microsoft or Google Suite.
  • Knowledge of CRM Platforms and managing corporate relationships.
  • Ability to build and cultivate relationships
#J-18808-Ljbffr