The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) has awarded $133,528 in matching funds to five recipients through the Iowa Rural Certified Site Initiative (IRCSI), a grant program designed to support the development of project-ready industrial locations in Iowa’s smaller communities.
These funds will help cover critical due diligence activities necessary for site certification, including environmental assessments, geotechnical investigations, and cultural resources surveys—key steps in attracting new business investment and job creation.
“Rural communities are strategically planning for long-term economic growth,” said Debi Durham, director of IEDA and the Iowa Finance Authority. “This funding supports their efforts to prepare industrial sites for future business development, ensuring job opportunities remain close to home.”
The following communities and organizations received funding:
- Clarinda Economic Development Corporation – $29,875 for Hugh and Maxine Loudon Business Park (~70 acres), Clarinda
- Jackson County Economic Alliance – $27,050 for Highway 61 Industrial Park (~59 acres), Maquoketa
- Iowa Interstate Railroad – $37,500 for Newton Rail Park (~478 acres), Newton
- City of Webster City – $37,500 for Webster City Southeast Industrial Park (~773 acres), Webster City
- Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance (on behalf of Webster County) – $1,603.75 for Iowa’s Crossroads of Global Innovation (~765 acres), west of Fort Dodge
Established in the 2024 legislative session, the IRCSI provides matching grants of up to $37,500 to eligible applicants, including local governments, economic development organizations, and utility providers in counties with populations under 50,000.
Certified sites adhere to nationally recognized due diligence standards, ensuring essential infrastructure and land availability requirements are met—helping communities attract business investment more efficiently.
More information about Iowa’s Certified Sites program and the IRCSI can be found at opportunityiowa.gov.
Media Contact:
Ms. Kanan Kappelman
Iowa Economic Development Authority
515.348.6248
communications@iowaeda.com
