About Us

Our Purpose

The Heartland Lakes Development Commission (HLDC) is dedicated to inspiring and retaining economic growth within Hubbard County. We aim to facilitate innovation, cooperation, and economic development by leveraging the area's unique assets through leadership, valued programs, and resources, all while maintaining our vibrant community.

Mission

Inspire and retain economic growth.

Vision

Facilitate innovation, cooperation, and economic growth in the region by enhancing and leveraging the area’s unique assets through leadership, valued programs, and resources while maintaining our vibrant community.

Values

  • Accountable: Delivering tangible, measurable results in economic development.
  • Integrity: Upholding honesty and strong moral principles in all endeavors.
  • Leadership: Passionately inspiring a vibrant economy.
  • Creative: Finding innovative solutions to challenges.
  • Collaboration: Encouraging partnerships by leveraging the county’s collective genius.

These values guide HLDC in its mission to foster economic growth and community development.

Hedgehog Concept

In 2025, HLDC reevaluated its strategic direction using the Hedgehog Concept from Jim Collins' "Good to Great." This approach focuses on the intersection of three key areas:

  1. What we can be the best in the world at: Providing comprehensive economic development services tailored to Hubbard County's unique needs.
  2. What we are deeply passionate about: Fostering a thriving, vibrant community through sustainable economic growth.
  3. What drives our economic engine: Developing and implementing programs that attract and retain businesses, thereby increasing the county's tax capacity. 

This strategic focus led to the establishment of two Big Hairy Audacious Goals (BHAGs):

  1. Grow the population in Park Rapids to 5,000 and in Hubbard County to 25,000, and increase tax capacity in Hubbard County by 40% by 2035.
  2. Create a stable and consistent funding stream to support an annual operating budget of $500,000 by 2030. 

These goals serve as the guiding force for HLDC's work over the next decade. 

History

Formed as a collaborative effort between the City of Park Rapids, Hubbard County, and the business community, HLDC was established to inspire and retain economic growth in the region. Over the years, HLDC has undertaken various initiatives, including workforce housing development, childcare solutions, and downtown revitalization projects, all aimed at enhancing the economic vitality of Hubbard County. 

Our Services

  • Strategic Planning: Developing comprehensive plans to guide economic development and growth in Hubbard County.
  • Entrepreneur Development: Supporting new and existing entrepreneurs through resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
  • Organizational Management: Assisting local organizations in improving efficiency and effectiveness to better serve the community.
  • Leadership & Collaboration: Fostering partnerships among businesses, government entities, and community organizations to drive collective success.
  • Access to Capital/Grant Resources: Providing information and assistance in securing funding opportunities for businesses and projects.
  • Training Resources: Offering educational programs and workshops to enhance skills and knowledge for business owners and employees.
  • Workforce Development: Implementing initiatives to attract, retain, and develop a skilled workforce to meet the needs of local employers.
  • Technical Assistance/Mentoring: Providing guidance and support to businesses in areas such as marketing, finance, and operations.
  • Site Location Assistance: Helping businesses identify and secure suitable locations for operations within Hubbard County.
  • Coworking Space at “The Hangar”: Operating a cooperative workspace that offers various space options for entrepreneurs, small businesses, and remote workers, along with networking and training opportunities. 

Through these services, HLDC is committed to fostering a thriving economic ecosystem in Hubbard County.