This page will feature news, information and updates about economic development and livability here in Freeborn County. We will also feature links and resources to help local business grow and expand our local economy.

Vortex Cold Storage in Albert Lea

July 24, 2023

In January 2021, JCW Development, LLC a nation-wide real estate and property development company, announced Albert Lea, MN, was selected as the future home of Vortex Cold Storage, LLC. Vortex…

Albert Lea Supports a Thriving Small Business Community

July 24, 2023

What makes a community a place that someone would actually want to live? There’s the essentials of course – safety, available housing, access to food, healthcare, employment, etc. But beyond…

Summer Intern Opportunity 2022

April 11, 2022

The Albert Lea Economic Development Agency (ALEDA or Agency) is the local economic development organization representing Albert Lea and Freeborn County.  ALEDA consists of the Albert Lea Port Authority, a…

Vortex Cold Storage Moves Forward in Albert Lea

January 21, 2021

Jan. 21, 2021 – Albert Lea, MN – JCW Development, LLC, a nation-wide real estate and property development company, announced Albert Lea, Minn., has been selected as the future home…

COVID-19 Relief Grants Given to over 100 Freeborn County Businesses

August 13, 2020

Through a partnership with Freeborn County, the City of Albert Lea, and Albert Lea Economic Development Agency (ALEDA) a new grant program was established to assist local businesses who have…

COVID-19 Resources

March 18, 2020

Albert Lea Economic Development Agency will be supportive and help get information to our local businesses about how to best be prepared and proactive in regards to Coronavirus (COVID-19). We…

Albert Lea Area Restaurant & Dining Options During COVID-19

March 18, 2020

Restaurants and Dining Options Here is a list of Albert Lea area dining options during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a rapidly changing situation, so if you know of anything…

Forgivable Loan Program for New Childcare Providers

February 20, 2020

We are excited to announce that through a grant given by Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation a new incentive for childcare providers has been launched in Freeborn County. The Freeborn County…

Economic Development Strategic Plan and Implementation Map

February 11, 2020

Community and Economic Development Strategic PlanDownload Implementation MapDownload Use the links above to access the strategic plan and implementation map. A community event will be held on Thursday, February 27th…

ALEAP Topic Night on January 16th – downtown Albert Lea

January 6, 2020

Join ALEAP on Thursday, January 16th from 6 to 8 pm at the Albert Lea Economic Development Agency conference room (132 N Broadway, Albert Lea). ALEAP meets monthly and offers…