About AMFA

About AMFA

Mission Statement:  AMFA is an industry-driven association formed to promote and strengthen the manufacturing, fabricating, and related industries of Northeast Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin. We are dedicated to the growth and success of our member companies, their employees, and their communities through trust and cooperation.

History:  AMFA was formed in 1997 by a grass-roots effort led by a handful of area entrepreneurs who felt the manufacturing industry would benefit from an organized effort to provide networking opportunities, local training and education offerings, joint marketing efforts, group buying, a legislative voice, and more.  The founding membership of 11 companies has grown to more than 60 companies today. 

Membership meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month (excluding summer months), with the location typically rotating between Duluth and Hibbing.  The meetings feature speakers on topics of interest to manufacturers, manufacturing plant tours, and a chance to network with industry peers.  The association also produces a monthly newsletter, the Shoptalk. 

The AMFA Educational Trust was formed in 2001 to address education and workforce issue in the region, particularly the lack of skilled labor available for manufacturing positions.  The Educational Trust hosts a golf fund raiser each June – the primary source of funding for the organization.

Collaboration:  AMFA, working in conjunction with Tri-State Manufacturers’ Association, launched the Midwest Manufacturers’ Association in 2001.  With an office in Elbow Lake, MN, MMA is a “central hub” that provides services and programs to trade associations.  Members have particularly benefited from the Trifac Fund, a workers compensation self insurance program.  A group health plan through PreferredOne was introduced in 2007. 

AMFA was a founding member of the Minnesota Manufacturers Coalition in 2004.  This organization focuses one or two legislative priorities each year, with the current focus on conversion of sales tax on capital equipment to an upfront exemption.