Mid-American Manufacturing Advances Again

Creighton University index shows strong regional economic growth

Apr. 2, 2026 at 4:30pm

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The Creighton University Mid-America Business Conditions Index, a leading economic indicator for a nine-state region from Minnesota to Arkansas, rose above growth neutral in March to its highest level since March 2025, signaling continued expansion in the manufacturing sector.

Why it matters

The Mid-America index is a closely watched barometer of economic health in the central United States, a region that is home to many of the country's manufacturing and agricultural hubs. The latest positive reading suggests the manufacturing industry in this part of the country is continuing to rebound from pandemic-related disruptions.

The details

The Business Conditions Index increased to 55.6 in March, up from 54.7 in February and 49.6 in January. Any score above 50 indicates growth. Iowa's index climbed to 58.6, while Nebraska had the highest regional score at 63.3. Other states surveyed include Arkansas, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, the Dakotas, and Oklahoma.

  • The March 2026 index was released on April 2, 2026.
  • The February 2026 index was 54.7.

The players

Creighton University

A private, Catholic university located in Omaha, Nebraska that conducts the Mid-America Business Conditions Index, a leading economic indicator for a nine-state region.

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The takeaway

The latest positive reading on the Creighton University Mid-America Business Conditions Index suggests the manufacturing industry in the central United States is continuing to recover and expand, a promising sign for the broader regional economy.