MANKATO, MN (May 15, 2026) — As part of its ongoing Chamber Lunch Series, Greater Mankato Growth (GMG) will host an event on Wednesday, May 20, featuring a timely and informative discussion on data centers and their growing role in regional and national conversations. The program, titled “Data Centers & Our Region’s Future,” is designed to help GMG members better understand this complex and often misunderstood topic.
As conversations around data centers accelerate across the Midwest, GMG is intentionally creating space for learning, discussion, and diverse perspectives. The goal of this event is to provide clear, factual information, as well as an avenue for participants to engage in a balanced conversation around opportunities, concerns, and considerations associated with this evolving industry. The conversation is not tied to any specific project or proposal in the Greater Mankato region.
Attendees will hear from industry experts and participate in a panel discussion on data center operations, infrastructure and energy demands, workforce impacts, and long-term economic development opportunities.
“Data centers are a complex and rapidly evolving topic, and it’s important that our members have access to accurate information and a range of perspectives,” said Andy Wilke, Executive Vice President of Greater Mankato Growth. “At GMG, we are committed to delivering content on timely issues that impact our business community, especially when those issues require deeper understanding and thoughtful discussion.”
The Chamber Lunch Series is a GMG member-exclusive event featuring compelling speakers who share timely updates, fresh business perspectives, and inspiring stories that impact our region. Each event offers GMG members the opportunity to engage more deeply with an issue that is gaining attention across communities, industries, and policymakers. The Series is part of GMG’s ongoing effort to keep members informed and engaged on issues that affect the regional business climate. Over the past year, Chamber Lunch has gathered the business community for a constructive dialogue on generative AI and ChatGPT, women in leadership, organizational culture building, and more, including a panel with city leaders from North Mankato and Mankato.
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Media Contact:
Andy Wilke
Executive Vice President
[email protected]