Resources & Data
2026 Industry Economic Impact
Minnesota’s outdoor recreation industry is a major driver of the state economy — and the numbers prove it. This report uses U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis data to break down the industry’s value added, employment, and compensation across Minnesota. Download the full report to see why outdoor recreation is serious economic business.
Other Key Outdoor Data
The story we tell about the impact of the outdoor industry in Minnesota is based on relevant, timely, third-party validated data. Find the latest outdoor industry economic data below:
- 2024 Outdoor Participation Trends Report
- 2023 Outdoor Participation Trends Report
- Outdoor Recreation Economic Statistics
- County Economic Data
Business Development Toolkit
This toolkit helps Minnesota outdoor recreation businesses and entrepreneurs review funding opportunities and other programs and policies that support growth and innovation. We have centralized state, regional and federal resources to make it easier to start, scale and strengthen businesses that power Minnesota’s outdoor recreation economy.
Star of the North for Business
In Minnesota, we build what matters. We are a state of problem-solvers, innovators, and legacy-makers. Plus, the state’s strong foundation of workforce talent, innovation, infrastructure, and technology fuels business success and growth.
Learn why you should do business in the Star of the North.
Newsletter Archive
Vital Documents
The documents linked below form the foundation of our work:
- One Page Summary: Minnesota's Outdoor Recreation Economy
- Minnesota Outdoor Recreation Task Force Recommendations
- Roadmap for Equitable Economic Expansion
- State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
- 2023 Bureau of Economic Analysis Industry Economic Numbers
The Confluence of States
On October 12, 2024, Minnesota became the 20th state to officially join the Confluence of States. The Confluence is a collective voice supporting the nation’s outdoor recreation economy.
Learn more and read the organization's 2024 report.
Relevant Panels & Webinars
- Winona's Winning Formula: Leveraging Outdoor Recreation
- What's Up Ely Podcast: Outdoor Recreation's Impact on Ely's Economy
County Economic Data
Need a quick overview of the economic value outdoor recreation provides in your county? Click the button below to find a bird's-eye view of local economic data.