– New economic development website features data, insights, neighborhood features, and business resources for Downtown Iowa City –
(Iowa City, IA) – December 13, 2024 – The Iowa City Downtown District (ICDD) in collaboration with the City of Iowa City has launched a economic development website to provide information and resources for businesses looking to locate in the community. LocateDowntownIowaCity.com is designed to connect entrepreneurs, brokers, business owners, and developers with valuable resources and current opportunities within Iowa City.
“Those of us living and working in Iowa City already know there is something unique about this area. With this initiative, we are able to more clearly communicate what sets Iowa City and Downtown Iowa City apart as a great place to do business”, said Rachel Kilburg Varley, Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Iowa City.
As part of an ongoing commitment to fostering a dynamic and prosperous business environment, the ICDD developed the platform to streamline access to essential information about downtown commercial properties, development incentives, and support services. The website features an interactive property database, market insights, and guidance on how to navigate city processes for opening or expanding businesses. “This is another tool for the ICDD to use for our business retention, recruitment, and growth as we are constantly working towards an ideal merchandise mix”, said Iowa City Downtown District, Executive Director, Betsy Potter. “Showcasing what makes Downtown Iowa City such a unique and authentic commercial hub, while acknowledging there is a lot of opportunity for growth in many areas is something we needed to do a better job of, as an organization”.
Key Features of LocateDowntownIowaCity.com:
- Interactive Property Database: A comprehensive map with listings of first floor occupied commercial spaces and available spaces for lease or purchase.
- Business Resources: Guidance on grant funding, leasing tips, business assistance programs, parking and transportation information, and connecting with community resources.
- Success Stories: Inspiring profiles of downtown and northside businesses that showcase the vibrant and collaborative existing business environment.
- Market Insights & Demographics: Critical data on customer behavior, workforce composition, visitor traffic, and other essential statistics to help businesses make informed decisions.
Locate Downtown Iowa City is also a valuable resource for current downtown businesses and stakeholders looking to gain a deeper understanding of the community’s vibrant ecosystem. With easy-to-navigate tools and actionable information, the website not only highlights the City and Downtown District’s economic potential but also demonstrates its appeal as a cultural and commercial destination. Through this initiative, the ICDD aims to encourage investment, spark innovation, and strengthen the community’s economic foundation. “Downtown Iowa City has long been a center of small business for the region. Our ongoing work is to ensure it stays that way and one of the most important things we can do is to make it as easy as possible to locate here”, said Potter.
For more information, visit LocateDowntownIowaCity.com.
