Every month, the Board of Directors for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance gathers for a Friday morning meeting that begins promptly at 7:00 a.m. Despite the early hour, the room is consistently full. These meetings bring together leaders from across our four-county region to hear updates, discuss emerging opportunities, and engage with presentations on timely topics shaping our communities and economy.
This morning’s presenter mentioned that he has spoken to economic development groups before, but never to a room this full. I took that as more than a compliment to attendance. It was a reflection of the commitment that exists across our region and the understanding that meaningful progress only happens when people stay connected, informed, and engaged with one another.
It’s also a reminder of how interconnected we must be to move the region forward in meaningful ways. Each month, we have representation from all four counties, bringing perspectives from communities large and small, public and private sectors, education, healthcare, manufacturing, entrepreneurship, and beyond.
After the presentation, the Alliance team provides departmental updates on projects and activities taking place across the region. For our board, it’s an inside look at the work our organization is engaged in, and I’ve found that our board truly values these updates. I usually kick things off and conclude the discussion, but it’s the Alliance team doing the work each day.
Economic and community development is a team sport, and no one person could do it alone. Today alone, we talked about project activity across the region, anticipated Workforce Housing Tax Credit applications we will submit to the state, a recent middle school workforce event our team led, the Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market, and recent communications projects such as the latest edition of Traction magazine and our documentary film playing at the Des Moines Arts Festival.
What strikes me most during these meetings is the breadth of activity happening simultaneously across the region. Some efforts are highly visible, while others happen quietly behind the scenes over months or even years. Yet all of them contribute to building stronger communities, creating opportunities, and shaping the future of central Iowa.
As we close another month, I’m reminded how fortunate we are to have leaders across the region who continue to show up, collaborate, and invest their time and energy into something larger than themselves. Progress rarely happens because of one moment or one organization. More often, it’s the result of consistent partnership, shared vision, and people willing to work together over the long term.