Economic Opportunities in Willmar, MN 

Located in West Central Minnesota near active railroads, Wilmar, Minnesota, is the seat of Kandiyohi County. Wilmar features plenty of opportunities to get active and involved, from parks and trails to recreational programs and a splash pad. The city’s strongest industries include technology, agriculture, retail, and healthcare, and it boasts a diverse school district with an award-winning Community Education program. The Wilmar workforce is well-educated, with many in and outside the city attending Ridgewater College. The technical and community college was voted the #1 Best MN Community College in 2021, and the faculty is dedicated to teaching students the skills the community needs to thrive. Wilmar was presented an All-America City Award, which acknowledges cities that use collaborative and inclusive strategies to address community issues.  

The city of Wilmar works closely with Kandiyohi County and the Wilmar Economic Development Commission to encourage the city’s growth and collaborate on matters of economic health. The partnership carefully balances attracting new businesses while still supporting and retaining the businesses that already call Wilmar home. The city has a large shovel-ready industrial park, as well as a technology park, and offers several economic incentives for prospective business owners:  

• Tax abatements 
• Tax increment financing  
• Tax breaks through the Renaissance Zone Incentive Package