The BEST of Iowa Business Expansion &
Strategic Trends
The BEST of Iowa Business Expansion & Strategic Trends was formed by Black Hills Energy (formerly Aquila), Alliant Energy IPL, Iowa Area Development Group, and MidAmerican Energy in collaboration with the Iowa Department of Economic Development as a partnership to provide a state-wide existing business tool. A program management committee was formed and the BEST roll out with regional training sessions was held in early 2007. Local economic development organizations have been trained to conduct executive visits in small and large communities across Iowa. The results of personal interviews from over 1300 executive calls were analyzed. These findings have been benchmarked against the national data to identify issues that need addressed on a statewide level. The analysis and recommendations were presented to local development partners as well as the Professional Developers of Iowa for action.
The success of the statewide BR|E program has drawn in new partners expanding the program's potential and value.
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