[ST. PAUL, MN] – In recent days, two major manufacturers have announced expansion plans in Minnesota, bringing hundreds of new jobs to the state. Solar panel maker Heliene plans to open a $145 million plant in the Twin Cities – its second in Minnesota. Medical device maker Boston Scientific plans to open a new $170 million campus in Maple Grove.

This comes as Governor Walz recently announced that Minnesota is a top-five state to live and work . Minnesota was also named a top-five state for business earlier this month.

“Keeping Minnesota competitive in the global economy means working with the business community, and manufacturers like Heliene and Boston Scientific, to create jobs and expand our capacity for innovation,” said Governor Walz. “We’ll continue recruiting and retaining workers, empowering employers to grow their businesses, and creating the jobs of the future right here at home.”

Heliene recently completed a $21 million expansion at their solar facility in Mountain Iron, making it the nation's second-largest solar panel producer. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and the Iron Range Rehabilitation and Resources Board provided about $15 million in funding for their facility on the Iron Range.

The state is currently working with Heliene and Boston Scientific as they develop their plans to expand in Minnesota.