Aitkin County (pop. 15,301) is strategically located between the northern Minnesota urban centers of Brainerd, Grand Rapids and Duluth. Its largest industries are tourism, forest products and agriculture, but there is a growing base of metal fabrication and other manufacturing. The county has excellent public schools, well-developed transportation systems, and modern community health care facilities. Long famous for its recreational assets, it boasts an abundance of trails and lakes, including Mille Lacs, one of Minnesota's most popular and prolific fishing destinations. The Mississippi River runs through the county seat.

Mission Statement

The Aitkin County Economic Development Department's goal is to address economic/industrial development of businesses within Aitkin County.

Primary objectives include:

• inform businesses of Aitkin County business assistance programs, including Tax Abatement, Minnesota Community Capital Fund and JOBZ;

• provide a single-point source of contact to connect business owners with financing information and technical assistance programs available;

• market Aitkin County's Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certified Forest Products.