Economic Development Division

Located along the Rum and Mississippi Rivers, Anoka has a rich history of industry and commerce dating back to the 1840s when the first settlements and logging operations began in Anoka. Today, with a population over 17,000, Anoka is home to over 700 employers and 13,400 jobs concentrated in three major sectors: government, services and manufacturing. 

The top four employers are Anoka County, Anoka-Hennepin School District, Hoffman Enclosures, and Federal Cartridge/ATK. Established in 1994, spanning 260 acres, Anoka Enterprise Park has provided a home for industry and manufacturing businesses. Anoka has a historic downtown which offers a unique experience for shopping, dining, and living. U.S. Highways 10 and 169, and State Highway 47 run through the city providing key transportation corridors for commerce.

Division Responsibilities

The Economic Development Division is responsible for the preparation and administration of a citywide Economic Development Plan to create community stability through employment growth, balanced development, a strengthened tax base, and income growth. The City of Anoka will strive to accomplish these goals through business retention and expansion, workforce development, entrepreneurial development, and promotion of the tourism and visitor industry.

Staff Support

The Division provides regular staff support to the Economic Development Commission. It also provides staff support to the following: 

• Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce
• Anoka Business and Landowners Association
• Anoka County United
• Business Call Team and the Celebrate Anoka Day Committee
• Discover Anoka (DA)
• Twin Cities Gateway Tourism Bureau

Programs

The major programs operated by the department include the Business Call Program, the Branding/Marketing Program, administering five Tax Increment Financing Districts and prepares proposals and works with prospects for all major development projects.