About Us

Imagine. Inspire. Connect.

Project 412 was created with the dream of making Detroit Lakes and the surrounding 412 lakes area an even better community. We know that communities that thrive are those that invest in themselves and are always striving, innovating, and taking risks to become better.

In Detroit Lakes, we’ve witnessed the magic that can occur when a community comes together to build something extraordinary. Our community has done this many times before with the City Beach, Detroit Lakes Community and Cultural Center, Detroit Mountain, the Ice Palace and with the improvements in our schools, medical facilities, and downtown. Each of these projects made Detroit Lakes a better place. Today, we have the opportunity to accelerate these positive changes.

​Founded on the belief that Detroit Lakes hasn’t reached its full potential, we believe that connecting people, ideas, and resources, we can become a better, stronger, and more vibrant year-round community. Our goal is to help Detroit Lakes become the best place to visit, live, work, start a business, raise a family.

Our Mission

To connect and elevate the cultural and economic vibrancy of the lakes area.

Focus Areas

Project 412 is investing in these two areas:

Creating Places & Events that Inspire

The most vibrant communities create a sense of place that inspires and is welcoming and memorable. Detroit Lakes is competing with communities around the country and world to attract visitors, workers, and residents. Creating a place that people want to be is critical, and we have the opportunity to invest in Detroit Lakes as a place by investing in public art, recreation, and events and experiences. 

Nurturing New & Existing Businesses

Detroit Lakes is home to many wonderful businesses. As a tourist destination, DL is ripe for additional new businesses that cater to visitors and locals alike. From unique restaurants and retail shops to food trucks, rock climbing gyms, and art galleries, there are so many opportunities to create businesses that give our community character. We can create an environment that supports our current businesses and encourages entrepreneurs to start-up businesses that will make Detroit Lakes even more unique and memorable.