Main Street Iowa Celebrates 40 Years, Honors Communities and Leaders
7 May 2026
News
The Iowa Economic Development Authority’s (IEDA) Main Street Iowa celebrated its 40th anniversary this evening during the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards in West Des Moines, recognizing outstanding efforts to revitalize downtown districts across the state.
Eighteen projects received Main Street Iowa Development Awards, while 45 recipients were recognized with leadership awards for their contributions to local Main Street programs. In addition, a longtime Main Street Iowa employee received the Spirit of Main Street Award.
More Topics
For many communities, the biggest barrier to airport development isn’t vision — it’s funding. City leaders worry about local match requirements. Airport managers feel overwhelmed by federal processes. Economic developers see opportunity but struggle to connect aviation investments to broader growth goals.The reality is, the funding is out there for...
Humble Beginnings: VT Industries Celebrates 70 Years of American Craftsmanship in Holstein
Apr 18 2026VT Industries founder Roger Clausen was born on a farm not too far from Holstein. Graduate of Holstein High, Class of ‘44.He enjoyed a short, one-year stint in the Navy, came back, and earned a diploma from the University of Denver in 1950. His career was going to involve running...
Businesses looking to expand or relocate to Western Iowa have access to a highly skilled regional workforce of more than 292,000 individuals.According to a 2026 report by the Labor Market Information Division of Iowa Workforce Development, industries from manufacturing, healthcare, education, finance, construction, and wholesale retail trade can benefit wildly...
