WhyInvesting in the Midwest Helps Everyone

See how economic growth in underinvested regions can strengthen the entire nation.

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The Midwest is home to millions of Americans and a rich history of industrial innovation, yet many areas have faced economic stagnation and underinvestment. By channeling resources and opportunities into the Midwest, we can not only help revitalize these communities but also contribute to national economic growth. Investments in infrastructure, workforce development, and business expansion in the Midwest can create jobs, foster innovation, and provide economic opportunities to millions of people.
40%

of U.S. manufacturing jobs are located in the Midwest, but many of these areas have seen declining investments in recent decades.

Over 15 million

people in the Midwest live in economically distressed communities, with regions in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana experiencing the highest levels of poverty and unemployment.

The GDP of the Midwest

is over $5 trillion, contributing significantly to the overall U.S. economy, but much of this potential remains untapped due to lack of investment in infrastructure and workforce development.

40%

of Midwestern communities report a need for more affordable housing, with a significant gap between the demand for housing and available supply, contributing to homelessness and migration to urban centers.

The Economic Impact of Investment

Investing in the Midwest doesn’t just benefit local communities—it benefits the country as a whole. By improving infrastructure, supporting small businesses, and investing in education and workforce development, we can create a more equitable distribution of wealth and opportunity. Additionally, growing the economy in the Midwest helps address key issues such as regional economic disparities, poverty, and job creation, which strengthens the broader national economy.

Notable Areas for Investment

  • Manufacturing & Technology: Rebuilding the manufacturing base while incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as automation and AI can position the Midwest as a leader in innovation.
  • Infrastructure & Transportation: Investing in transportation infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and broadband access, can enhance connectivity and foster regional development.
  • Affordable Housing: Addressing the affordable housing gap can stimulate local economies and reduce issues such as homelessness, displacement, and migration to urban centers.

Resources for Investment & Growth

  • Midwest Economic Policy Institute
    A leading research and policy organization focused on advancing economic development across the Midwest through investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
  • The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
    Provides research and policy recommendations for economic growth in the Midwest, particularly focusing on improving access to capital, jobs, and innovation.
  • The Brookings Institution - Metro Policy Program
    Brookings’ research on metropolitan economies includes specific recommendations for revitalizing the Midwest through sustainable and inclusive economic policies.
Explore more on the economic challenges and opportunities in the Midwest:
Midwest Economic Policy Institute
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