Economic Development
The Headwaters RDC staff works cooperatively with economic development and community development partners throughout the region in the creation of new jobs by providing general planning guidance, technical assistance for specific projects, and services to local units of government.
There is no single recipe for prosperity, however, for the region’s communities to compete in the global economy it must explicitly address the building blocks of the knowledge-based economy such as; technology, innovation, talent, supporting entrepreneurs, and developing a high quality of life.
The Headwaters RDC aids our communities in the form of creative thinking, strategy development, and effective approaches to help businesses, communities, and organizations achieve their development goals and prosper in a global economy.
Federal EDA
HRDC partners with the Federal EDA to implement funding for strategic investments, innovation, sustainable growth, creating jobs, enhancing infrastructure, and improving quality of life within our region. As a state agency working regionally, HRDC has meaningful relationships and contacts with many local, state, and federal agencies. As a result, much of the Economic Development work is simply acting as a liaison, and HRDC is in a rare position to utilize these contacts to assist organizations on a regional level.
Resources:
Dan Anderson
Economic Development Specialist
danerson@hrdc.org
218-333-6545
Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED)
HRDC collaborates with MN DEED to fund economic development projects across our region, driving job creation and lasting, meaningful change. These initiatives span a range of focus areas, from workforce development to business expansion, all aimed at strengthening local economies and improving community resilience. Through strategic investments, we help build a more sustainable and prosperous future for the region.
Resources:
Dan Anderson
Economic Development Specialist
danerson@hrdc.org
218-333-6545
Headwaters Regional Finance Corporation (HRFC)
The Headwaters Regional Finance Corporation (HRFC) is a subsidiary of HRDC with the responsibilities of administering revolving loan funds for business development. Revolving Loan Fund Business Financing Specialize in:
“Gap” financing
Loan to startups, for expansions, etc.
Focus is on job creation, new industry, and high tech
Sean Moran
Loan Officer
Planning Services
Economic development goes beyond funding projects—it also involves strategic planning to support long-term growth. By providing planning services, we help communities identify opportunities, streamline development efforts, and create sustainable solutions. From land use planning to infrastructure development, these services lay the foundation for economic success. HRDC has many valued partners, with strong connections developed over many years. Our partners include:
- Lake of the Woods Economic
- Development Authority
- Mahnomen Economic Development Authority
- City of Baudette
- White Earth Nation
Dan Anderson
Economic Development Specialist
danerson@hrdc.org
218-333-6545
Grant Writing
HRDC works with our communities directly, and understands the financial needs that many face. The ED department is aware of potential grants offered, and assists in the grant writing process, from start to finish. The grant writing process includes the following:
- Identify Needs and Focus
- Find Prospective Grants
- Develop General Proposal and Budget
- Prepare Specific Proposal
- Submit Proposal Before Deadline
- If Accepted, Assist in Disbursement of Funds
- Carry out Project
- File all Final Reports with Associated Funding Agencies
Dan Anderson
Economic Development Specialist
danerson@hrdc.org
218-333-6545
Regional Food Business Center
Coordinating and networking within the value chain for local foods, providing technical assistance to small and mid-sized producers.
Sami Trana
Community Development Specialist