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November 14, 2022 | Economic Development & Workforce

We’re All in This Together – Our Towns

In late October, I had the privilege to play tour guide for authors Jim and Deb Fallows for two days during their first visit to Cedar Rapids. While the Fallows’ have had i...

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November 9, 2022 | Economic Development & Workforce

Cedar Rapids Metro Gaining National and International Attention for Business Attraction Projects

2022 has been a monumental year for economic development in the community. The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance has responded to 22 request for proposals (RFP) in the past...

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November 4, 2022 | Business Support

Local Company Helps Clients Go Green

​We all strive to be environmentally responsible throughout our lives. We recycle. We compost. We conserve energy. AMTek Microwaves, located in southwest Cedar Rapids, he...

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October 27, 2022 | Economic Development & Workforce

Nearly $235 Million of Capital Investments Coming to the Cedar Rapids Metro After State Money Awards Announced

​Fifteen Cedar Rapids metro projects received major funding boosts from the state of Iowa as the Iowa Economic Development Authority has announced over $11 million for redev...

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October 24, 2022 | Business Support

Discussions Around DEI Remain Top of Mind for the ICR Region

When diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) are ingrained in a society’s core, it’s a win for everyone. An equitable business community not only makes the local economy str...

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October 12, 2022 | Economic Development & Workforce

Thinking About What Matters

​Brain drain - the departure of our college graduates to other states – isn’t anything new. We’ve read about, try to recruit against it, and promote the benefits of st...

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September 26, 2022 | Economic Development & Workforce

Engaging Young Professional in the Community…It’s Easy!

​Getting your young professional employees involved in the community is a key retention tool for the Cedar Rapids metro area. ImpactCR is a great place for your employees to...

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September 26, 2022 | Economic Development & Workforce

Iowa Workforce Development and Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Announce Another Round of Funding for Child Care Business Incentive Grants

The Economic Alliance team hears regularly from our members about their workforce challenges, and that includes access to child care that create barriers for working parents. ...

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September 15, 2022 | Business Support

Squeeze in Summer Fun Before Fall Officially Arrives

According to the calendar, it’s still officially summer. So, before you put pumpkins on the porch or hang skeletons in your yard, here’s a list of all the ways to squeeze ...

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September 14, 2022 | Community Development

Big Little City for Your Housing Investment

​Moving to a new city is a life changing decision. Whether it’s for a new career opportunity or to move closer to family, investing in a home can be a big risk. The Cedar ...

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September 7, 2022 | Community Development

The Story Behind the Story: Next Nature Mural

​In late August local artist and owner of the Underground Art Studio, Scott Takes finished Next Nature, a dual mural that now adorns two sides of the Fix Salon building on t...

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August 30, 2022 | Economic Development & Workforce

Welcoming refugees essential to Iowa’s economic future

Though it’s a long drive on I-80 between Cedar Rapids and Council Bluffs, our regional economies face many of the same challenges and opportunities. Iowans are working an...

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Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance

August 25, 2022 | Public Policy

Upcoming Regional Candidate Forum Series Provides Access for Members

​November 8 marks another Election Day when voters get to weigh in on the issues that matter most. The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance and Iowa City Area Business Partn...

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How we are supporting Local this weekend

August 25, 2022 | Business Support

How We Are Supporting Local This Weekend Ft. Sammy Petersen

Weekend itineraries featuring great Cedar Rapids area restaurants, shopping, recreation, arts and culture and more! Thanks to GreenState Credit Union, Buy Local Presenting Spo...

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August 25, 2022 | Business Support

Riverside Celebrates 16 Years

In today’s work culture, community engagement has been an integral part of many company missions. Employers often encourage their employees to get involved in volunteering a...

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