America’s Next Growth Opportunity: An Investment-Ready Heartland

America's heartland represents a significant opportunity for economic growth, according to McKinsey. The 20-state region accounts for 35% of U.S. GDP and 39% of the population but attracts only about 10% of venture capital investment and 29% of fixed-capital lending. McKinsey estimates that if the region's share of GDP matched its population share, it could generate approximately $2 trillion in additional economic output. Smaller communities are particularly important, with manufacturing, agriculture, health care, logistics and energy serving as major economic drivers.

The findings create opportunities for banks, credit unions, commercial lenders, manufacturers, construction companies, commercial real estate firms, workforce training providers, health care organizations and economic development agencies. Sellers can help these businesses promote investment, business expansion, financing, recruitment and community development initiatives that support growth in smaller markets.