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Latest News

Marotzke resigns from Kandiyohi County Economic Development

Cory Hepola, of ‘My Town’ docuseries, to headline Life Connections event in Willmar, Minnesota

Carr to be offered executive director position at Kandiyohi County Economic Development

2024 KCED Winter Newsletter

Spring 2025 KCED Newsletter

Carr to be offered executive director position at Kandiyohi County Economic Development

Baker, Lang talk about bipartisanship, education funding and the deficit

Kandiyohi County Economic Development Executive Director Search – Finalists and Interviews

Upcoming Events

Marketing and Public Relations Committee

May 19 @ 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Apple Tree Square 1601 E. Hwy. 12 Suite 3
Willmar, MN 56201 United States

Elevate CBA Spring 2025 Graduation

May 30 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Sibley Auditorium, 1700 Technology Drive NE, Suite 101
Willmar, MN United States

Partners in Ag Innovation Conference

June 17 @ 7:30 am - 1:00 pm
Sibley Auditorium, 1700 Technology Drive NE, Suite 101
Willmar, MN United States

Latest Social Media Updates

📣 This week's business highlight is 🌳 Paul’s Tree Work, LLC 🪓, located in Sunburg, is owned and operated by Paul Swanson. This Veteran-owned 🦅 business is entering its third successful season serving the community with expert tree services. Paul’s Tree Works specializes in: 🌲 Tree removal & trimming 🌲 Forestry & lot clearing 🌲 Stump grinding 🌲 Pad & driveway construction 🌲 and even the occasional custom wood sculpture—his favorite to carve is the ‘squishy🧸 bear’ (you’ll just have to ask Paul to learn more!) Paul has been working with chainsaws since he was 12 years old, helping out with his family’s logging business. In 2023, he received a revolving loan💲 from KCED, which helped to officially launch Paul's Tree Works—and he's been growing 📈 🌱 ever since. 🔎 You can find Paul's Tree Work on Facebook and by calling 🤳 612-618-3326.

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With the announcement of Michelle Martozke’s resignation, we want to take a moment to thank her for all she’s done for KCED 🙏💼. KCED is grateful for the time, passion, and hard work Michelle has brought to her role ❤️✨, and we’re excited to see where her next adventure takes her 🌟🚀. As the organization moves through this transition 🔄, we stay focused on the momentum of economic development in the county 📈🌱 and appreciate everyone’s support 🤝.

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🌎💚 Healthy Earth, Healthy Kids – This Saturday in Willmar! Enjoy this fun, family-friendly event celebrating Earth Day and healthy living! 📅 Saturday, April 27 | 10:00 am - 2:00 pm 📍 Willmar Civic Center FREE 🌱 Enjoy hands-on activities, outdoor fun, and tips for keeping both our planet and our kids healthy and thriving. 🍎 Learn about nutrition, sustainability, and simple ways to care for the Earth together. Bring the whole family for a day of learning, laughter, and community connection! 🌞🌍

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🌍🎉 International Heritage Festival – A Celebration of Cultures 📅 Friday, April 25 | 5:30–7:30 PM 📍 Willmar Senior High School Auditorium & Commons You're invited to an unforgettable evening of food, music, art, and culture from around the world - all represented right here in the community! 🥐 Taste global flavors 🎶 Enjoy music, dancing & cultural performances 🖼️ Explore art and artifacts Come celebrate the rich diversity that makes Kandiyohi County! 🌎💃

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🎉 A huge thank you to all the incredible sponsors, employers, and students who made this year's Student Job Fair & Career Expo a big success! 💼✨ From educational conversations to career-changing connections, the energy in the room was electric ⚡. KCED loves being part of an event that opens doors and creates opportunities for the future. 🚀 Special thanks to ✨ sponsors 🌟 Willmar Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, Southwest Initiative Foundation, Jennie-O (especially for vendor snacks and bags for goodies!), Ridgewater College, Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services, Inc., Willmar Public School District and Walt's Soft Cloth Car Wash for student gift certificates!

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🎉 You're Invited to the Annual Life Connections Event! 🎉 🗓 Friday, April 25th | 📍 ⏰ 10 am - 2 pm 📍 Willmar Civic Center 2707 Arena Dr Willmar, MN 56201 Come enjoy a full day of vendors, entertainment, food, fun, and time to connect with friends and make unforgettable memories! 🌟 Featured Speaker: Cory Hepola Emmy award-winning documentarian & TV anchor 🎤 Schedule of Events: 🥞 8:00–9:30 AM – Pancakes by Chris Cakes 🏆 9:45 AM – Outstanding Senior Award Presentation 🎙 10:00–11:00 AM – Keynote with Cory Hepola 🎶 11:30 AM – The Kingery Family on the Main Stage 🎲 1:00 PM – Bingo Time! 🎵 2:00 PM – Larry Olson Polka Band Get full details: https://buff.ly/aVaHFRZ Bring your family and friends for a day filled with inspiration, celebration, and connection.

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Thank you My Town Series for capturing this story 🎥

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🌾🚜 Save the Date! Registration Now Open! 💡📅 Join us for the Partners in Ag Innovation Conference on June 17, 2025, at MinnWest Technology Campus, Willmar, MN (or attend virtually!). Explore "Ag and the Economy: Cultivating Growth in a Changing Landscape" with top industry experts, innovators, and producers. 🔥 Key Highlights: ✅ Keynote: Ag Economist Mike Pearson ✅ Regional Insights & Producer Success Stories ✅ Tech Showcase & Climate Resilience Strategies 🎟 Complimentary Registration – Includes ☕ breakfast & 🥪 lunch! 🔗 Register Now:

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