As our existing companies continue to innovate, grow and create jobs they will offer our region more resiliency and provide economic mobility for more citizens. Our existing industry efforts will align with the workforce efforts to create a more inclusive workplace that supports and grows leaders. To be successful in the long term, we will align the needs of our existing companies with the educational systems who are creating the talent they need to succeed.
Action 1: Continue developing specialized industry clusters that are actionable in expanding networks, aligning talent pipeline needs and create innovative means to solve problems and make the entire network stronger.
  • Timeline: 1-4 years
  • Cost: $100,000/year
  • Responsible Parties: Kirkwood Community College, Regional Economic Development Organizations, Regional Utility Companies
Action 2: Develop more support for companies to expand their international trade and export.
  • Timeline: Ongoing
  • Cost: $100,000-$300,000/year
  • Responsible Parties: IEDA, Regional Economic Development Organizations, Regional Utility Companies
Action 3: The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) is a vital regional asset that is essential in strengthening and sustaining regional economic development efforts. Collectively we will leverage individual business travel and vendors/suppliers spend through CID to retain existing service and foster new service opportunities.
  • Timeline: Ongoing
  • Cost: $50,000
  • Responsible Parties: CID, CVB, Regional Economic Development Organizations, Regional Utility Companies
 
Understanding that our existing companies are the backbone of our economy and generate the bulk of all new jobs, we will be the region that has the most robust innovative approaches to keeping these companies strong, growing and connected in a quickly changing, global economy. This work is day to day. We must focus on a variety of issues and seek constant feedback. Our metrics of success will literally be the percentage of businesses retained.