Capital Analytics Analysts report…

In an interview with Invest:, Matt Varilek, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development, praised the state’s strong economic performance, highlighted its $200 million investment in workforce programs, and efforts to address critical challenges, including childcare access and broadband connectivity.

Here’s What he said about broadband…

What are the primary challenges facing the labor market and economic landscape in Minnesota, and how is the department addressing them?

The economy intersects with various issues like childcare, broadband, and housing, which all impact the labor market. While DEED has resources to address some of these challenges directly, we often collaborate with other state agencies and partners.

For instance, broadband access is critical. Businesses rely on it for operations, and workers need it for training or remote work. Our Office of Broadband Development has bipartisan support, and we recently announced $52 million in grants to connect 8,000 more homes and businesses.