But even though we are basking in the glow of success, some of us are already asking “What's next?” in terms of major signature events? Since the lead time needed to identify, pursue and confirm these events can be 3-5 years or more, we always have to ask and answer that question.

Our community has the experience of securing and hosting major events over the last few years. We also have the facilities and infrastructure that make the Minneapolis-area one of the few regions equipped to do so. It make sense to continue to be good stewards of these investments.

A recurring question, however, as we ponder which of these major events to pursue, is how to fund the bid and execution process for those events that require such support. Assuming that the community concludes that events like a Super Bowl or Final Four are valuable to host, it is not unreasonable to expect that there might be an upfront investment.

The Star Tribune published an editorial, on Super Bowl Sunday, addressing the issue of sustainable funding for major events. The piece helps to illuminate some next steps in ensuring that Minneapolis is the “Destination of Choice.”

Editorial: As the Twin Cities gain host-city momentum, focus shifts toward making the region a regular site for America’s biggest events.
http://www.startribune.com/opinion/editorials/472422353.html