Awards

The member counties of Western Iowa Advantage are home to many companies that operate at the highest standards of excellence. These counties and their respective companies regularly receive acclaim for their efforts.

County or City Awards/Recognition:
Ida County	In December 2006, Maple River Energy in Ida County received a $400,000 award from the Value-Added Agricultural Products and Processes Financial Assistance Program and Enterprise Zone tax benefits were awarded to construct a soybean processing and biodiesel plant outside of Galva.
Denison, Holstein	In September 2006, two Western Iowa communities received rural development funding support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Senator Tom Harkin. Visit website
Coon Rapids	Recently named an “Iowa Great Place” by Governor Tom Vilsack. Visit website
Sac City, Greenfield	In February 2006, Sac City and Greenfield were both recognized as nationally certified Main-Street Communities
Wall Lake	In March 2005, Western Iowa Energy in Wall Lake received a $400,000 award from the Value-Added Agricultural Products and Processes Financial Assistance Program for construction of a 30 million gallon-a-year biodiesel plant.
Guthrie County	Progressive Farmer ranking. Visit website
Wall Lake	In December 2005, Western Iowa Energy received the Outstanding Business of the Year Venture Award from the Iowa Area Development Group on behalf of Iowa’s electric cooperatives and member municipal systems. Visit website
Auburn, Galva	In September of 2005, the cities of Auburn and Galva were chosen to participate in the 2006 Iowa’s Living Roadways Community Visioning Program. Auburn was chosen for the potential and interest shown in improving the community entrance signs and downtown business district, as well as the creation of a walking trail around the community. Visit website
Denison, Lake View, Odebolt	Recipients of the 2004 - 2005 Tree City USA award.
Sunny Fresh received the Malcolm-Baldridge Award.