Department: Economic Development
Daniel Cooper brings a robust background in utility operations, economic development, and community leadership to his role as Economic Development Strategist at Great River Energy. Prior to joining Great River Energy, he served as Key Accounts and Business Development Manager at an electric cooperative, where he managed large-load commercial and industrial projects, cooperative financing programs, and energy efficiency initiatives that supported member growth while advancing state energy goals. Cooper also brings deep hands-on industry experience to his economic development work, having previously served as a Journeyman Lineworker and as an engineering line staker designing distribution infrastructure. At Great River Energy, he identifies and drives development opportunities across the cooperative's member territory, leveraging his expertise in regional utility planning and working closely with state, regional, and local partners on economic initiatives throughout Minnesota.
Cooper is deeply engaged in regional economic growth, serving as Board Chair of the Iron Range Economic Alliance and Board Chair of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, where he represents more than 400 member businesses. He also co-chairs the Iron Range Childcare Initiative Task Force and remains active in statewide community and economic development efforts.
Cooper holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Bemidji State University. He is a Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Certified Energy Auditor (CEA), and Certified Key Account Executive (CKAE).
