Why Economic Development and Agriculture Go Hand in Hand

The Grinnell Lions Club invited Poweshiek Development Executive Director Melissa Strovers to speak at Ag Appreciation Day on Thursday, August 27. Her message to farmers, agricultural businesses and community members was clear: agriculture and economic development go hand in hand.

Agriculture is deeply connected to Poweshiek County’s businesses, workforce and communities. Every farm is a business. Farmers invest in land, buildings, equipment, technology and employees. Their work creates demand for transportation, equipment sales and repair, agronomy, veterinary services, finance, insurance, food processing and many other local services.

When agriculture is strong, that impact reaches far beyond the farm.

A Major Economic Driver

A 2024 statewide economic contribution study estimated that agriculture and related industries contribute approximately $342 million in value added to Poweshiek County’s economy and support 3,076 jobs. That represents about 22% of the county’s total value added and 22% of its jobs.

Put simply, more than one in every five local jobs and more than one in every five dollars of value created in Poweshiek County is connected to agriculture.

Value added is not the same as total sales or farm profit. It measures the value created after the cost of inputs, such as seed, fertilizer, fuel and feed, is subtracted. It reflects income, employee wages, taxes and other economic activity generated through agriculture.

Building on an Existing Strength

Economic development is not only about recruiting new companies. It is also about helping existing businesses remain strong, expand and prepare for the future.

For agriculture, that means listening to farmers and agricultural businesses, connecting them with resources, addressing workforce and infrastructure needs, and supporting business planning, financing and succession.

It also means creating opportunities for the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs. New ideas may come from farming and livestock, agritourism, cottage food businesses, value-added products, local food systems, equipment services, conservation, logistics or agricultural technology.

Supporting these businesses and ideas helps keep talent, investment and income in Poweshiek County.

Bringing Agricultural Voices to the Table

During her Ag Appreciation Day presentation, Strovers also announced that Poweshiek Development is partnering with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach to launch an agricultural entrepreneurship advisory group.

The purpose is not to begin with a predetermined agenda. Poweshiek Development wants people working in and around agriculture to help shape the group, identify opportunities and challenges, and connect people and ideas with resources.

The group is open to anyone interested in agriculture, from farming and agritourism to cottage foods, agricultural entrepreneurs and business owners. Educators, lenders, innovators and community partners who want to strengthen agriculture in Poweshiek County are also encouraged to participate.

To learn more about the agricultural entrepreneurship advisory group, share an idea or connect with resources, email director@poweshiekdevelopment.com.