Could 'North' become the new Silicon Valley?

Many cities across the US are trying to become the next Silicon Valley. The word "startup" is often thrown around as these towns try to compete in today's global economy. In Minneapolis (MN), there's even an effort to attract young talent by pushing for a regional name change. A group of business leaders and academics think Minnesota should break away from the Midwest and establish a new region called the "North."

Tom Fisher is the dean of the College of Design at the University of Minnesota. He says this change wouldn't just include the land of ten-thousand lakes. "The 'North' isn't just Minnesota. It also includes parts of Iowa, a big part of Wisconsin, parts of Michigan and parts of the Dakota's," Fisher said. Fisher says this grassroots effort gives the region a chance to promote something it is often ridiculed for. "In the 'North,' where we often apologize for being cold, at least in the winter, part of what we're talking is that there's a huge advantage to that," Fisher said. Fisher says in a cold climate, people aren't as distracted during the winter months, allowing them to huddle up and be creative. He points to the innovative culture in places like Scandinavia. Fisher also says Minnesota and surrounding areas are overlooked for their contributions to the tech community, especially when it comes to health-care technology.