The International Institute of St. Louis is determined to continue its efforts to grow the region’s population. Following changes in federal funding and policies, the organization is shifting its focus from bringing immigrants from outside the U.S. to encouraging citizens and green card holders, including Hispanic and Asian American populations, to consider St. Louis as a desirable place to live.
According to U.S. Census data from last year, the 15-county bi-state St. Louis metropolitan area experienced the highest percentage increase in foreign-born population among the 30 largest metro areas in the United States from 2022-2023. To maintain this momentum, innovation is necessary for addressing the declining population.
“We think it’s so important for all of St Louis,” said Karlos Ramirez, Vice President at the International Institute. “I don’t want people to get so bogged down on ‘it’s the International Institute, so we’re bringing immigrants.’ I want people to understand we’re trying to bring population to St. Louis.”
