I recently attended the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) annual conference in Philadelphia. It’s a conference that I attend often, as do others within our organization. The programming is always excellent, and it gives our team an opportunity not only to learn from others but also to reflect on the things we are doing well.
This year, I had the honor of introducing a long-time friend and colleague as she received the ACCE Lifetime Membership Award. It was a fitting tribute to the leadership she has displayed throughout her career and the many communities and industries she has served.
While there, I caught up with several colleagues from across the industry. We naturally share stories from our work—the successes we celebrate and the challenges we face. To the surprise of no one reading this, I had plenty of positive things to share about our organization and region. From a project standpoint, we are as busy as we have ever been, and our affiliate organizations are firing on all cylinders.
Our AREA Young Professionals organization has reached a record number of members. The Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market recently drew over 8,000 visitors on what was considered just an average day at the market. Businesses continue to invest in the Alliance, and our local affiliates—including Ames Main Street, the Boone County Economic Growth Corporation, the Nevada Economic Development Council, and the Hamilton County Growth Partnership, and more because they see the value in what we do.
That impact is now extending further west with our newly formalized strategic partnership with the Greene County Development Corporation. Both boards have approved this exciting collaboration, which will allow us to advance economic growth for the entire region. Together, we will strengthen the pipeline of opportunities for businesses, workforce, and community development—not just in Ames, but across Central Iowa.
As we close out the month, I continue to be energized by the momentum we are building. The investments of our members, partners, and affiliates are creating a stronger, more connected region. Thank you for all you do to make the Ames Regional Economic Alliance a driving force for growth and success.
