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Minot Among Nation's Top Metros in Site Selection Economic Development Report

Posted: Mar 02 2026

Minot’s economic momentum is earning national recognition: In Site Selection magazine’s 2025 economic development report, Minot ranked twice among the nation’s Top Tier 3 Metros (population 50,000–200,000), tying for #4 in total qualifying projects and ranking #2 nationally for projects per capita in its category.

The rankings, published in Site Selection’s March 2026 issue, recognize communities that demonstrate exceptional success in attracting and expanding corporate facility projects, a key benchmark for economic vitality and competitiveness.

The Minot Area Chamber EDC continues to prioritize economic development, as outlined in its five-year strategic plan.

“These rankings reflect the intentional, strategic work happening across the Minot region,” said Brekka Kramer, Minot Area Chamber EDC President | CEO. “This recognition belongs to our employers, our local leaders, our state partners, and the entire community that continues to lean in and move projects forward. Minot competes because we are aligned — investing in infrastructure, strengthening our logistics and industrial assets, and creating the kind of business climate where companies and families can build for the long term. We’re proud of this moment, and even more focused on what’s next.”

Minot’s strong performance also contributed to a broader statewide achievement. North Dakota claimed the top spot in Site Selection’s 2025 Governor’s Cup rankings for projects per capita, unseating South Dakota and earning national recognition for the most qualifying corporate facility projects per million residents.

Governor Kelly Armstrong emphasized that the accomplishment reflects long-term planning and infrastructure readiness across the state.

“This achievement is the product of steady, coordinated effort and a holistic approach to economic development,” Armstrong said in a news release. “Communities, lawmakers and industry partners have all played a role in positioning North Dakota for long-term success. We’re proud of the momentum we’ve built, and we’re just getting started.”

In an interview with Site Selection, Armstrong highlighted the importance of engaged local leadership and strong partnerships — a formula that continues to power results in the Magic City.

“You have to have local buy-in. You have to have forward-thinking county commissioners, city commissioners, economic development councils,” Armstrong said. “You can’t bring somebody in if the community is not engaged in doing it.”

You can read Site Selection’s cover story on North Dakota here.