Global Wellness Connections

Building Out the Wellness Corridor

What GWC Connections are Happening Now

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The Upper Midwest: A Wellness Corridor Already in Motion

A Region with Roots in Wellness

The Upper Midwest—led by Minnesota—is not waiting to become a Wellness Corridor. It already is one. With global food leaders like Cargill, General Mills, and Land O’Lakes, the region is at the forefront of agricultural innovation and nutrition science. In southern Minnesota and northern Iowa lie some of the most fertile soils on the planet, powering a robust food ecosystem that feeds millions.

The region is also a national leader in healthcare. From the largest health insurer in the country to a thriving ecosystem of med-tech startups and device manufacturers, the Upper Midwest is not just participating in the future of health—it is shaping it. A growing network of partnerships is emerging across state lines, connecting talent, research, and technology to form a cohesive regional advantage.

The Wellness Corridor isn’t a dream to be realized—it’s a reality already here. But now it must be recognized, strengthened, and mobilized.

Why Action Matters Now

Regions around the world are reorganizing, investing in climate resilience, and aligning their assets to build long-term competitiveness. The Upper Midwest cannot afford to rest on its foundations. This part of the country has traditionally taken a quiet pride in its strengths—but in today’s fast-changing world, hope and heritage are not enough.

To remain competitive with other purpose-driven regions—whether in Europe, Asia, or North America—we must act decisively at the regional level. That means looking beyond state lines, beyond industries, and beyond short-term gains. The Wellness Corridor must be coordinated, visible, and future-focused.

The GWC Movement: Discovering and Connecting the Assets of a Region

The Greater Wellness Corridor (GWC) initiative is about amplifying what already exists. As we expand engagement across Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, we continue to discover more assets that strengthen this region’s position as a global wellness powerhouse:

• World-class food production and agtech infrastructure

• Healthcare systems and medical innovation hubs

• Outdoor recreation, clean water, and a culture of wellness

• A work ethic rooted in resilience, community, and stewardship

GWC is not asking every place to move at once. Innovation rarely starts everywhere—it starts somewhere. With a few bold leaders, a few strong coalitions, and a willingness to challenge assumptions, we are building momentum.

A Call to Courageous Leadership

The future will not wait for consensus. It will be shaped by those willing to connect across boundaries—of geography, discipline, and tradition. GWC invites local leaders, businesses, institutions, and everyday citizens to be part of a regional identity that puts health, sustainability, and equity at the center of prosperity.

The Upper Midwest is ready. The Wellness Corridor is already here.

Now, let’s lead with it.