Business and Economic News

Mankato to Dayton: Do better on water quality
The southern Minnesota city wants more help for farmers to reduce runoff, but the state says its hands are tied.
Notes from the field: Reporter's first Farmfest
MPR News reporter Elizabeth Dunbar visited Farmfest to talk to farmers, learn farm lingo and test-drive a tractor.
Be more than a bookstore: A brick-and-mortar shop's key to success
Barnes & Noble is experimenting with food, Amazon is replicating its online business and an indie shop aims to be part of the community. Ultimately, they all want to sell more books.
'Granny pods' help keep Portland affordable
As rents rise, Portland is making it easier for homeowners to build small houses in their backyard and enable people who would be priced out to stay.
Apps bringing Twin Cities neighbors together, mostly
Nextdoor and other social websites are winning fans in Minnesota and across the country using digital tools to help mobilize people within their neighborhoods. But those stronger ties can also bring problems neighbors didn't bank on.
Target buys tech company to help it offer same-day delivery
Expanding delivery and making it faster have been key areas for retailers trying to attract convenience-seeking shoppers. Target and Walmart have adjusted their shipping programs as they try to lure online shoppers away from Amazon.
President Trump thanks Putin for ordering expulsion of U.S. diplomats from Russia
After the Russian president moved to expel 755 staffers from U.S. embassies and consulates in response to sanctions, Trump said his administration needs to cut the State Department payroll anyway.
Duluth considers sales tax for road improvement
Tom Weber talked with Duluth mayor Emily Larson.