Case Study - The Water Project
Overview
A Transformative Initiative and Partnership
In 2023, Imagine Deliver and the Minneapolis Foundation launched The Water Project, a transformative initiative to position Minnesota’s water as a cornerstone of the state’s economic growth, rural prosperity, and climate resilience. As Minnesota emerges as a potential climate refuge, The Water Project united leaders across sectors to ensure that water drives community vitality, industry innovation, and a flourishing future.
OBJECTIVE
Protecting Minnesota’s Water
Minnesota’s water sustains industries like agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing while connecting to the state’s identity and way of life. However, aging infrastructure and rising demands threaten both the availability and quality of water. Minnesota’s fragmented governance system further complicates efforts to use water as a key driver of economic and social well-being.
STRATEGY
Reframing Water as a Shared Resource for Economic Growth, Connection and Opportunity
Imagine Deliver led a state-wide movement that reframed water as a shared resource that fosters connections across communities. We conducted a Our FutureProof Analysis that identified opportunities to strengthen Minnesota’s water systems while supporting long-term sustainability goals. We drew insights from local ecosystem leaders and community members to create an illustrative video showcasing the current landscape of water and future-looking solutions. Using the insights gathered, we developed the Water Quality Blueprint and Action Kit – a framework that inspires cross-sector action and collective responsibility for Minnesota’s water future.
Our strategy focused on three core areas:
- Economic Opportunity: We ensure that water access supports Minnesota’s industries while connecting communities to their heritage and future.
- Climate Resilience: We establish sustainable water practices that attract businesses, workers, and families seeking stability in a changing climate.
- Collaborative Action: We bring leaders, communities, and industries together to foster shared responsibility for water’s role in Minnesota’s ongoing success.
IMPACT
Water as a Cornerstone of Economic Growth, Rural Prosperity, and Community Vitality
The Water Project reframed water stewardship as a vital economic resource and a cultural cornerstone that unites Minnesotans. By focusing on quality, quantity, fair access, and jobs, Imagine Deliver and the Minneapolis Foundation set the foundation for a future where businesses thrive, communities prosper, and Minnesota remains resilient in the face of change.
Key Outcomes from the Project:
- Water Quality Blueprint and Action Kit: Imagine Deliver created this comprehensive toolkit to provide communities and industries with clear steps to maintain water quality and ensure water remains central to Minnesota’s future.
- Task Force Leadership: Attorney General Ellison and the task force aligned policy and legal frameworks to keep Minnesota’s water accessible and protected.
- Conservation Minnesota’s Leadership: Conservation Minnesota took over the collective action framework, ensuring long-term leadership in water stewardship.
- 2024 Lottery Amendment Push: This amendment will secure crucial funding for water infrastructure projects that support Minnesota’s economic growth and future stability.
CONCLUSION
Securing Minnesota’s Water Future Through Policy, Collaboration, and Action
The Water Project represents a new era in how Minnesota manages and celebrates its most vital resource. Through practical policies and collective action, this initiative ensures Minnesota’s water continues to support economic opportunity, climate adaptation, and community well-being. By connecting leaders from across sectors, The Water Project secures water’s role in shaping Minnesota’s future for generations to come.
