Best Practices Trip: Twin Cities

Portland Business Alliance and Greater Portland Inc. are proud to partner once again to organize the next Best Practices trip—this time to Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota. 

This trip is an opportunity to connect with business, civic, and elected leaders from both Portland and the Twin Cities while exploring the parallels and possibilities between our two regions. 

Below are some of the key topics we’ll explore in the Twin Cities: 

Advancing local government leadership and civic collaboration 
We’ll explore how leadership across city, county, and regional levels is working to address complex urban challenges—like housing, public safety, and economic inclusion—through innovative policy, cross-sector partnerships, and community engagement. The Twin Cities offer valuable insight into how different layers of government can align around shared goals for regional prosperity. 

Activating riverfronts and public space 
From the transformative Upper Harbor Terminal redevelopment to the award-winning Water Works Park and Mill District, the Twin Cities are leading the way in reconnecting urban communities with the river. We’ll tour these sites and meet the planners and community leaders behind the vision. 

Revitalizing downtowns in a two-core city 
With both Minneapolis and St. Paul serving as economic and cultural centers, the Twin Cities provide a rare case study in dual-core urbanism. We'll explore how each city is reimagining its downtown and the tools they’re using to do it. 

Investing in arts, culture, and creative economy 
The Twin Cities are home to one of the most vibrant performing arts scenes in the country. We’ll visit cultural venues, speak with venue managers, and explore how creative districts are helping drive economic development and place-making. 

Harnessing the power of sports and stadium development 
Major stadium projects like U.S. Bank Stadium have reshaped downtown and catalyzed adjacent growth. We’ll look at the economic ripple effects and governance models that made these investments possible. 

Building a stronger regional economy 
Through sessions on tourism, talent retention, and business growth, we’ll learn how the Twin Cities are leveraging partnerships to build an economy rooted in innovation, equity, and resilience. 

This promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring trip—one that will not only deepen connections between Portland and the Twin Cities, but also offer valuable lessons we can bring home to strengthen our own city. By seeing how another region is tackling familiar challenges with creativity and collaboration, we’ll return with fresh ideas, renewed energy, and a broader perspective on what’s possible for Portland.