Strategic Framework

Bold vision merits even bolder action.

Since West Central Initiative’s founding in 1986, we’ve been a strategic partner to small business owners seeking to launch or expand, local leaders wanting to raise money to fill needs in their communities, aspiring changemakers simply seeking collaborators to help bring an idea to life, and more. During those three decades, we’ve witnessed the power of bold vision—and recognize bold vision is only as powerful as the bold action that follows.

For us, that bold vision is that a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable world starts here in west central Minnesota.

We envision a future where all people feel welcome, appreciated for their unique attributes, and connected to their neighbors, communities, and natural environments. Where our regional economy sparks the imagination of entrepreneurs and bolsters vibrant, prosperous, and growing communities. Where our planet is respected, sustained, and recognized as paramount to our existence.

To get there, we need even bolder action. This strategic framework is our guide.

Local, Regional, Global

Our Strategic Priorities of people, planet, and prosperity recognize the interconnection between all three to ensure an equitable, sustainable, and vibrant future for all who call west central Minnesota home.

Regional Community and Economic Development Cornerstones are four pillars that our region and communities need to be strong, resilient, and prosperous for generations. Tied to these pillars is the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, a blueprint for cross-sector collaboration, that outlines specific needs, goals, and strategies for our region’s community and economic development work over a five-year period.

Global Sustainable Development Goals are based on the premise that a healthy, sustainable planet is one where all people belong and can live together in peace and prosperity. The interrelated goals are an urgent call for action by all countries—with an upcoming deadline of 2030. An important principle of the goals is to ensure that “no one will be left behind.”

Our strategic plan has many moving parts. Each part helps us move toward one destination: a thriving, inclusive, and prosperous region.

Global Sustainable Development Goals
Regional Community and Economic Development Cornerstones
Our Strategic Priorities
UN Sustainable Development Goals wheel
DevelopMN Cornerstones wheel
WCIs Strategic Priorities

View our 2023-2028 Strategic Framework