Minneapolis (June 24, 2025) – The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) has completed the first half of a $25 million renovation project designed to modernize its meeting rooms and better meet the needs of event planners and attendees. This initial stage encompassed updated designs for more modern, comfortable and technologically advanced spaces in 45 of the MCC’s 87 meeting rooms. The investment reinforces the MCC’s commitment to delivering a premier experience for event planners, attendees and the local community.

“We are proud to unveil the results of the first half of this project and know these updates will enhance the experience for our clients and their attendees,” said Jeff Johnson, Executive Director of the MCC. “This renovation reflects our ongoing investment in maintaining and updating the MCC to anticipate the evolving needs of the meetings and events industry.”

The project blends functionality and style, while prioritizing sustainability, comfort and user experience. Among the highlights of the newly renovated rooms:

• Enhanced Lighting – New linear LED fixtures with theatrical-grade controls allow for customized ambiance tailored to each event.
• Streamlined Technology – Upgraded electrical, data, fiber and audio infrastructure ensure consistency across rooms.
• Better Airflow & Comfort – New linear HVAC diffusers improve ventilation and temperature control.
• A Warm & Modern Aesthetic – Interiors are light, with wood wall accents, wood-grain metal doors, and wood-grain metal ceiling tiles that add warmth and sophistication.
• Sustainable & Stylish Acoustics – Acoustic wall panels are wrapped in Carnegie’s Xorel fabric, a 100% PVC-free material that is both eco-friendly and durable.

The second stage of the renovation is well underway and includes upgrades to the remaining 42 meeting rooms. Work is scheduled to minimize disruption to events and is expected to be completed in early 2026. The MCC typically invests $10-15 million per year in capital improvements to the award-winning downtown Minneapolis facility.

For photos of the renovated meeting rooms, go here.

Beyond meeting room renovations, the MCC continues to strengthen its role as a sustainable leader for meetings and events.

• Recently, the MCC unveiled an innovative Sustainable Event Guide, a valuable resource designed to help clients, planners and exhibitors host greener events at the MCC.
• New sustainability efforts include lobby lighting that uses 62% less energy and a chilled water system that recently switched to carbon-free power.
• For more information on the MCC’s sustainability program, go here.

“Sustainability has long been at the heart of how we operate at the Minneapolis Convention Center,” added Johnson. “These latest efforts build on that commitment, providing our clients with the tools they need to host successful events while making environmentally responsible choices. Together, we’re shaping a greener future for meetings and conventions in Minneapolis.”

For more information on the MCC, visit www.minneapolisconventioncenter.com.

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ABOUT THE MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER
The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) is owned by the City of Minneapolis and marketed through Meet Minneapolis. The 1.6 million square foot facility features 475,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 3,400 fixed-seat auditorium, 87 meeting rooms and two ballrooms. The MCC is GBAC STAR, LEED, SITES and GMIC certified and works to serve its constituencies and stakeholders as the face of Minneapolis to visitors. Learn more about the MCC here.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Kevin Kurtt, PR & Communications Manager, o 612-767-8118, c 952-288-9319, kevink@minneapolis.org
Kristen Montag, Senior PR & Communications Manager, o 612-767-8038, c 651-335-5754, kristenm@minneapolis.org