POWESHIEK DEVELOPMENT
THE COLLABORATIVE
Our Mission
Poweshiek Development aims to foster strategic economic growth by leveraging partnerships and programs which will create a vibrant economy for the benefit of regional businesses and residents alike.
Strategic Objectives
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Maintain a focus on county-wide job growth and retention.​
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Design a comprehensive business outreach effort that focuses on entrepreneurial start-ups, small businesses, and primary sector employers.​
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Lead a county-wide effort to identify, analyze, secure, and develop new industrial and commercial sites.​
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Lead a branding, promotion, and marketing effort.​
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Work with local partners to form a workforce and housing needs analysis team.​
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Focus on putting programs and strategies in place for the sustainability of the organization.
Leadership
​​Representing a variety of communities, backgrounds and industries, the Poweshiek Economic Development Collaborative’s Board of Directors is comprised of enthusiastic thought leaders including:
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​OFFICERS
Chair – Brian Manatt, Manatt's Inc
Vice Chair – Becky Petig, Petig Law
Treasurer – Chris Hansen, Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance​
Secretary – Delphina Baumann – Grinnell Private Investment Company
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BOARD MEMBERS
Rachel Bly – Grinnell City Council
Ashtyn Beek – Iowa Valley Community College
Tyler Geiger – Bear Creek Insurance
Jason Roudabush – Poweshiek County Board of Supervisors
Download the 2024-2025 Annual Report!
Learn more about the organization's past year of achievements, plans for the future, and details regarding memberships in the 2024-2025 annual report.
POWESHIEK COUNTY
THE TOTAL PACKAGE
STRATEGIC LOCATION
Situated along I-80, Poweshiek County offers easy access to Des Moines, Iowa City, and Cedar Rapids.
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BUSINESS-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT
Supported by Poweshiek Economic Development Collaborative, the region fosters innovation and investment.
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WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Partnerships with large employers like Manatt's and Grinnell Mutual, and local educational institutions, such as Grinnell College and Iowa Valley Community College, ensure a skilled and educated workforce.
DEMOGRAPHICS
Poweshiek County, Iowa, is home to the cities of Brooklyn, Deep River, Grinnell, Guernsey, Hartwick, Malcom, Montezuma, and Searsboro.
It is characterized by a stable and predominantly rural population of nearly 20,000 residents. As of recent estimates, the county maintains a relatively consistent population size, reflecting trends often seen in regions of the Midwest with strong agricultural roots.
The age distribution in Poweshiek County reflects a mix of working-age adults, a notable senior population, and a smaller proportion of younger residents. Educational attainment levels are generally in line with state averages for rural areas, with a strong emphasis on high school completion and a reasonable percentage of residents holding associate's or bachelor's degrees.
Economically, Poweshiek County's demographics are closely tied to its agricultural roots, with farming and related industries forming the backbone of employment. Beyond agriculture, sectors like education, healthcare, and small businesses contribute to the local economy. Income levels and poverty rates tend to align with the state's rural averages, reflecting the economic realities of a predominantly agricultural and small-town environment.
With more than 500 employer establishments, Poweshiek County demonstrates a dynamic business environment, supported by a strong local economy and ongoing efforts to foster growth and development.