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Economic Development

Cedar Rapids Metro's strengths include manufacturing, food processing, logistics, space and aviation, education technology and agriculture. We are actively seeking new frontiers and opportunities in bioscience, renewable energy, sustainability and innovative technology.

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Locate and grow here

A robust, innovative region in America’s welcoming heartland

Find the land, logistics and educated workforce you need to build or expand. With shovel-ready certified sites, we make it easy for businesses looking to grow quickly.

We offer big city infrastructure and amenities, with easy access to the insiders–the decision makers–who will help your business prosper.


Invest, Connect, explore

Get to Know the Cedar Rapids Metro

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THE PERFECT LOCATION

Cedar Rapids’ central location is ideal for quick day trips

Whether it’s for work or play, it’s a one-day drive to eight major cities in the Midwest. Cedar Rapids is the hub connected to a network of metropolitan areas, giving you quick and easy access to a large customer base.

Looking to go farther? The Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids can connect you to other national and global markets—and here’s a secret—our airport is one of the most convenient airports you will find anywhere. It’s easy to get in and out, and parking is a short walking distance from the terminal.

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Interested in becoming a member?

Learn more about membership here
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“The Cedar Rapids Metro is the perfect size and location for CRST, The Transportation Solution, one of the 10 largest truckload carriers in the country. With easy access to major decision makers, we can make things happen quickly when we need to. There’s no big city bureaucracy or politics—just hardworking people, working together to get things done.

Hugh B. Ekberg, President and CEO, CRST International

“We really could have built this plant anywhere. We could have built in Asia, we could have built in Europe, we could have built in South America, but we chose to build right here in Cedar Rapids, and for good reason. Cedar Rapids offers us stability, safety, and a competent professional and capable workforce.”

Ken Seufert, CEO, JRS Pharma.

economic news

See what’s happening here

A lot goes on in the Cedar Rapids Metro! See the latest on our growing and thriving businesses.

City View High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Community Development, Downtown Cedar Rapids, Economic Development & Workforce

City View High School Year Two: New Curriculum, New Opportunity

August 21, 2024

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Big Grove Brewery and Pickle Palace in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, both recipients of Brownfield/Grayfield Grant recipients.

Economic Development & Workforce

Revitalizing Iowa: The Story of Brownfield and Grayfield Grants

August 7, 2024

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Financial Times Article Featuring Kelly Ortberg Named CEO of Boeing

Economic Development & Workforce, Membership

Kelly Ortberg, Former Head of Rockwell, Named CEO of Boeing

August 2, 2024

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Patrons walk the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Community Development, Economic Development & Workforce

Growing Communities: An Interview with one of our Market’s Longest-Serving Vendors

July 25, 2024

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Economic Development & Workforce, Public Policy

Collaboration Wins: Community Leaders Unify in Washington D.C.

July 1, 2024

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