Insights Archives

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The Minnesota Paradox

The Atlantic joined a long list of media which, throughout the past few decades, have heralded Minnesota’s high quality of life. However, a careful, more detailed look at the data reveals what’s called the “Minnesota Paradox.” Wilder Research Executive Director and Compass Governance chair explains.

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Minnesota on the move: Examining migration patterns

The state demographer's office recently analyzed patterns of migration to better understand who is moving to Minnesota and who is moving away. State Demographer Susan Brower highlights some key findings, and gives her insight about what they mean. 
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Starting a fire, to improve health

What's the most effective way to get action started to improve community health? Start a fire. Paul Mattessich, executive director of Wilder Research and Compass project director explains.
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Ignite learning for all kids through afterschool activities

Ignite Afterschool's Kari  Denissen-Cunnien outlines how people and organizations across Minnesota are working to engage young people in the crucial learning opportunities that happen outside the school day.
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Minnesota's Hispanic population: 5 interesting trends

In honor of Hispanic Heritage month, I dug into our Compass data and pulled out 5 trends I found interesting and hope you do too!
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Forecasting the uncertain future

What might Minnesota's population be in 2040? It depends on who you ask. Todd Graham, principal forecaster for the Metropolitan Council, highlights some of the published forecasts, assumptions each makes, and some of the challenges of predicting the future.
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How well do you really know your neighborhood?

Learn how Betsy Leach, executive director of the District 1 Community Council in Saint Paul, uses neighborhood profiles to dispel misconceptions and advocate for resources.
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Minnesota's aging population: Prepare for lift off

Our baby boomer population is like a jet airplane that has just lifted off. Former Compass Project Manager Craig Helmstetter highlights 5 implications for Minnesota.
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Data is a flashlight illuminating Minnesota’s smaller communities

Erik Torch, Director of Grantmaking, Northland Foundation and Nate Dorr, Program Officer, Northwest Minnesota Foundation, share their thoughts on how new city profiles and other Compass data can help drive decision making in their communities.