The Iowa Economic Development Authority today announced its support for a major business expansion project by Edible Garden AG Incorporated, approving a $2,660,000 incentive package through its Business Incentives for Growth (BIG) program.
The award, approved on April 17, includes $2,000,000 in Investment Tax Credits and $660,000 in Sales and Use Tax Refunds. The incentives will support Edible Garden’s transformation of an existing 400,000-square-foot facility—formerly used for aquaculture shrimp farming—into a high-capacity, technology-driven ready-to-drink (RTD) beverage production plant.
Edible Garden AG Incorporated, a recognized leader in controlled environment agriculture, is advancing its Zero-Waste Inspired® next-generation farming model while expanding into private label consumer products and vertically integrated food and beverage manufacturing. The new facility will focus on producing shelf-stable, plant- and dairy-based protein beverages using advanced precision processing and automation.
At full capacity, the facility is expected to produce more than 100 million RTD beverage units annually, positioning Iowa as a key player in the fast-growing functional beverage market. Because the majority of these products will be distributed outside the state, the project is anticipated to bring significant new revenue into Iowa, expanding the state’s economic base and contributing to net new economic growth.
“This is exactly the type of forward-looking investment that strengthens both our regional and statewide economy,” said Dan Culhane, President and CEO of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. “Edible Garden’s project leverages Iowa’s agricultural strengths, adds significant manufacturing capacity, and creates new market opportunities well beyond our borders. We’re proud to support this innovative expansion and the long-term value it will generate for our communities.”
In addition to direct economic output, the facility is expected to bolster Iowa’s agricultural and manufacturing supply chains. The project will increase demand for dairy inputs, including milk protein isolate (MPI), as well as packaging, logistics, and transportation services. Iowa’s established dairy processing infrastructure and growing dairy sector position the state to meet the high-volume, consistent supply needs required for production. The Ames Regional Economic Alliance continues to work closely with state and local partners to support projects that drive investment, innovation, and sustainable economic growth across central Iowa.