Global Minnesota shares the concerns of many in the community regarding the impact of recent federal changes on internationally-focused nonprofits. As a committed nonpartisan organization working to advance international understanding and engagement, Global Minnesota recognizes the incredible value these local organizations, national affiliates, and international partners bring to Minnesotans and to millions of people around the world.
Global Minnesota offers numerous programs to connect Minnesota with the world. As a result of federal changes, our Professional Exchanges program has faced significant disruption, preventing us from showcasing to the world the incredible companies, organizations, skilled professionals, and hospitality for which Minnesota is known. Here is a quick summary of the impact on our work and how you can help.
What is the Situation?
Our Professional Exchanges program connects experts in a wide variety of fields from all over the world to Minnesota to discuss best practices and find shared solutions to global problems. Global Minnesota receives important funding from the U.S. Department of State to implement many of these exchanges. In February, the State Department initiated a 15-day funding freeze, which remains in effect. As a result, exchanges involving dozens of visitors have been cancelled, disrupting important conversations and impacting the financial capacity of Global Minnesota.
What is the Impact?
Professional exchanges are an indispensable way to make friends for our country, strengthen relationships with foreign nations, build business and investment opportunities, and expose our citizens and young people to other ways of life. This past year, Global Minnesota welcomed over 400 international visitors from 128 countries, connecting them to over 200 Minnesota organizations and businesses. These visits provide significant economic benefits to Minnesota, creating $1.7 million in local economic impact in 2023 alone. The average visit generates $11 in local economic activity for every $1 spent at the federal level.
Why Does it Matter?
Minnesota has a long and proud tradition of welcoming international visitors to showcase the best of our state to the world. Impacted programs like the International Visitor Leadership Program and the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative have been a cornerstone of diplomacy, making friends abroad by familiarizing future foreign leaders with the United States and giving them opportunities to meet and work with American counterparts. The focus on person-to-person connection is a testament to the understanding that citizen diplomacy forges the strongest bonds across global divides. These connections open doors abroad for new investment and other opportunities for Minnesota businesses. They help prepare our young people for the world they will have to grapple with in years to come. Taken together, these exchanges make our country safer, stronger, and more prosperous.
How Can You Help?
We encourage you to continue the work of person-to-person diplomacy and engage with Global Minnesota by attending events, serving as dinner hosts, participating in discussion groups, and making space to share global connections. Global Minnesota is committed to inspiring thoughtful conversations around foreign affairs. We hope you will join us for upcoming programs that help our community better understand the global diplomatic, cultural and societal impacts of federal government changes.
Now is the time to support one or more of the internationally engaged, Minnesota-based organizations that you care about. Global Minnesota is especially grateful for the unwavering support of our members and donors. Now, more than ever, we need your help. Please consider an additional gift to support Global Minnesota through this time or consider showing your support by joining us for our annual gala on May 31. Help us continue to bring the world to Minnesota and share the best of Minnesota with the world.
For nearly 75 years, Global Minnesota has worked to ensure that Minnesota is a welcoming place for international visitors and students. Help us continue to fulfill our founding motto, “They came as strangers, may they leave as friends.”