Photo by Flickr user mattindy77.
Alexandra Starr of the London-based Financial Times calls the Twin Cities “Cold, but cool” in explaining why Minneapolis and St. Paul are a draw for young professionals:
How did the Twin Cities manage to avoid the exodus [of young, college-educated professionals] that has weakened other centres? The Cities are lucky to have a robust and diverse business community, unlike many neighbouring states, which have historically been dependent on manufacturing and agriculture. But the jobs are just a part of it. Government and business also have invested heavily in educating the local population. A strong tradition of philanthropy has made the region a cultural powerhouse. And those outlays have transformed a spot occasionally called America’s Icebox into a magnet for young talent.
MCF members Medtronic, General Mills and Target are mentioned along with the Keystone Program, which recognizes companies for their philanthropy: “Their donations have left a mark on almost every part of the Twin Cities’ civic, educational and cultural life.” The “vibrant arts scene” is one example given, and the author mentions the well-known features such as the Walker Arts Center and Bob Dylan, but also northeast Minneapolis’ brewery-turned-artists-space, galleries and independent shops. MCF president Bill King continues: “It’s often freezing here. The companies need to attract top talent. A big part of this is creating an attractive place to live.”
- Read the rest of the Financial Times article
- Emerald City of Giving Does Exist
New York Times, December 2007
Posted by Crystal Colby 
