The Iowa Economic Authority (IEDA) has announced funding for two companies in the Ames MSA. State funding has been approved for M.H. Eby, Inc. in Story City and Mid-States Material Handling and Fabrication in Nevada. M.H. Eby, Inc. M.H. Eby was founded in 1938, as a manufacturer of wood livestock…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome Ottie Maxey to the team as Director of Business Retention & Expansion. “A large part of job growth in any region is the result of businesses and companies growing and expanding,” said Dan Culhane, President & CEO of the Ames Chamber…
The President & CEO role of many organizations must look at the “big picture,” or serve as the visionary leader. Part of that is focusing on the culture of the organization, establishing and maintaining relationship with stakeholders, putting into place a strong team, and moving forward the big rocks that…
Earlier this month, the State of Iowa identified and ranked 96 new “Broadband Intervention Zones” for its Empower Rural Iowa Broadband Grant Program. The status makes areas eligible for “enhanced incentives” and “higher prioritization” for state dollars, according to a news release from the state. These zones identified by local…
Dan Culhane, President & CEO of the Ames Chamber of Commerce, has been selected as this year’s Leadership for Iowa Award winner. The award is presented annually to a past participant of the Leadership Iowa program who exemplifies quality leadership both on a community and statewide level and demonstrates a…
Every other month, we have an all-staff meeting where we get together for lunch, laugh on a personal level, and cover a variety of business along the way. Even though we see each other on a weekly basis, these meetings are great ways for us to connect, provide updates, and…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that Emory Widlowski has been promoted to Director of Events. As Director of Events, Emory Widlowski will continue to manage the planning and organization of events on behalf of the Ames Chamber of Commerce and affiliate organizations. Widlowski has been with…
(May 5, 2023) – The Ames Chamber of Commerce, Ames Economic Development Commission (AEDC), and partner organizations will be celebrating National Economic Development Week from May 8 – 12, 2023 to showcase the contributions of positive economic development and ongoing economic development projects in our communities. “Economic Development Week is…
The Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market (AMSFM) kicks off its 13th season on Saturday, May 6. The 2023 market season will run every Saturday through October 14 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in historic Downtown Ames. In October, the market hours will change to 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.The…
Next month, May 8-12, we will celebrate Economic Development Week. It is a hallmark week for our organization as we pride ourselves on being a driving force of economic development for our region. In many ways, we have already started the celebration. If you follow our social media accounts, you…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Program focuses on educating and engaging members on key legislative issues and initiatives impacting the Ames MSA. Maintaining strong relationships with federal, state, and locally elected officials is a key tenet of the Ames Chamber of Commerce, and a service we are proud…
The City of Roland is to purchase the Availa Bank building at 120 N. Main Street to serve as the new Roland City Hall. Availa Bank announced it would be closing the Roland branch as of April 28, 2023. “After the 2020 derecho it was discovered that the current City…
I recently returned from northern Minnesota where I presented for two days at the Upper Midwest Economic Development Course. I’ve had the honor of presenting there several times over the years and it is always an event that I look forward to. Speaking to emerging economic development leaders from around…
Earlier this month, we announced that the hosts of the Discovery Channel’s popular show, “RV There Yet?” will visit the Ames area in early October to record an episode on our region. The show will feature local amenities in Boone and Story County, including the Rail Explorers in Boone, Reiman…
Earlier this month, I attended the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) annual convention, this year held in Dallas, Texas. It was wonderful to connect with colleagues from across the country and to take time to think about the work we do. As our new Ames Regional Economic Alliance…
Earlier this week marked a significant moment for our organization as we officially launched our new brand: Ames Regional Economic Alliance. The new brand is not just about a name and a logo, it is about a collective commitment to growth, collaboration, and prosperity across our three-county area. For over…
As we move into June, the summer season is officially here. For many of us, that includes entering the season of being busy. Gatherings with family and friends, weddings, and vacations, often get condensed into a three-month window of time. If you’re anything like us, when we get to the…
Earlier this month, it was announced that Daisy Brand, a Dallas, Texas-based company, is planning to build a new state-of-the-art, 750,000 square foot facility in Boone in 2024. The makers of cottage cheese and sour cream, Daisy is a national brand that had the choice to land anywhere across the…
In April, I will celebrate 18 years at the Ames Chamber of Commerce. This is not a date or time of year that I have marked on my calendar to celebrate, but as I was reminded of it recently, it provided an opportunity of reflection. My economic development career began…
Last year, we helped develop Build a Better Boone, a collaboration that brought together key organizations across the Boone community on a regular basis. The key entities include the City of Boone, Boone County, Visit Boone County, Boone Community School District, Boone Chamber of Commerce, and the Boone County Economic Growth…
Earlier this month, we recognized individuals and businesses who have shown exemplary service and commitment in their profession or in the community at our Annual Awards ceremony. This is a tradition that has continued since 1987, and it’s an event that I look forward to each year. This year’s awards…
Author Tommy Spalding was the keynote speaker at our Annual Luncheon event on December 5, 2023, held at Cornerstone Church. His message of servant leadership is one that resonates with me, and I was excited to hear him speak. Leadership is something that I think about often, always aspiring to…
Discover Ames leads group providing initial notice to Ames City Council (AMES, Iowa – October 14, 2025) Discover Ames, in collaboration with the Ames Regional Economic Alliance and local developers “The Away Team,” presented to the Ames City Council with initial plans for a state-of-the-art event and conference facility to…
Thirty31 Partners, a Huxley, Iowa based private equity firm with a focus on private business investments and real estate, has acquired Jerry Carney & Sons, Inc., a family-owned auto parts and recycling business in Ames, Iowa. Founded in 1956, Jerry Carney & Sons is a second generation operation known for…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is pleased to announce Sidney Hansen as its new Digital Marketing Specialist. In this role, Sidney will support the Alliance’s communications and outreach efforts by creating digital content and amplifying the organization’s mission across multiple platforms. “Sidney joins our organization at an exciting time, as we continue…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is excited to welcome Harrison Swift as a new Director of Economic Development. In this role, Harrison will also serve as the Executive Director of the Boone County Economic Growth Corporation (BCEGC), where he will focus on advancing business retention and expansion, workforce development, and community growth for…
Lincolnway Energy, located just outside of Nevada, Iowa, has surpassed a major milestone, reaching 100 million gallons in annual ethanol production—double the output the plant was originally designed for. This achievement comes through ongoing capital investment, technological improvements, and a relentless focus on efficiency. Founded in 2004 as a 50-million-gallon-per-year facility,…
CrawDaddy Outdoors, a family-owned outdoor retail and adventure company with more than 20 years of experience serving northeast Iowa, is expanding to Central Iowa with a new location on Main Street in Ames. Known for Iowa’s largest selection of kayaks as well as outdoor gear, apparel, rentals, guided experiences, and…
The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) recently announced $35.9 million in workforce housing tax credits to support development in 36 counties across the state. The awards will fund 63 projects expected to create nearly 2,000 new residential units. “When families can find quality, affordable homes, they put down roots —…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance (Alliance) is excited to announce a new strategic partnership with the Greene County Development Corporation (GCDC). With this new strategic partnership, the Alliance will play a key role in strengthening the GCDC organization while taking another step towards expanding their regional economic development efforts across…
Fellowship Provides State and Local Business Leaders with Opportunities to Engage Nationally on Critical Education and Workforce Issues The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation today announced Shannon Thiele, Director of Workforce Development of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, was selected to participate in the twelfth cohort of its premiere business…
Research Funding Creates Jobs Bolsters Local Economies, & Protects our Nation’s Competitiveness Edge The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is pleased to announce the relaunch of the Business for Federal Research Funding (BFRF) Coalition, which currently includes over 70 chambers of commerce and business organizations in over 30 states across the…
Ames, Iowa – The Ames Regional Economic Alliance invites the community to kick off summer in Campustown with live music, a food truck showdown, and neighborly fun. The Ames Summer Series in Campustown will take place on Wednesday, June 18, from 4:00-7:00pm in Campustown Parking Lot Z, located just south…
Friday, May 16, 2025 – United Equipment Accessories, Inc. (UEA), a family-owned business and one of the largest global manufacturers of slip rings, rotary unions, and hose/cable reels, is expanding their Iowa footprint to Ames, IA. In addition to maintaining their current Waverly, Iowa operation, the company has identified an…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is pleased to announce Sidney Hansen as its new Digital Marketing Specialist. In this role, Sidney will support the Alliance’s communications and outreach efforts by creating digital content and amplifying the organization’s mission across multiple platforms. “Sidney joins our organization at an exciting time, as we continue…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is excited to welcome Harrison Swift as a new Director of Economic Development. In this role, Harrison will also serve as the Executive Director of the Boone County Economic Growth Corporation (BCEGC), where he will focus on advancing business retention and expansion, workforce development, and community growth for…
Fellowship Provides State and Local Business Leaders with Opportunities to Engage Nationally on Critical Education and Workforce Issues The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation today announced Shannon Thiele, Director of Workforce Development of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, was selected to participate in the twelfth cohort of its premiere business…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is excited to welcome Katlyn Mock to the team as the new Client Services Coordinator. “Katlyn will be a great addition to our team,” said Dan Culhane, President & CEO of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. “Katlyn’s background in hospitality, communications, and customer service will…
Earlier this week marked a significant moment for our organization as we officially launched our new brand: Ames Regional Economic Alliance. The new brand is not just about a name and a logo, it is about a collective commitment to growth, collaboration, and prosperity across our three-county area. For over…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is excited to welcome Travis Toliver to the team as Vice President and Executive Director of Ames Main Street (AMS). “We are excited to have Travis join our team and apply his knowledge and experiences to our downtown and the organization,” said Dan Culhane, President…
As we move into June, the summer season is officially here. For many of us, that includes entering the season of being busy. Gatherings with family and friends, weddings, and vacations, often get condensed into a three-month window of time. If you’re anything like us, when we get to the…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Commission is excited to welcome Elizabeth Ross to the team as Economic Development Coordinator. “Elizabeth will be a great addition to our team,” said Dan Culhane, President & CEO of the Ames Chamber of Commerce. “Elizabeth’s skillset fits our team perfectly, and…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Commission is excited to welcome Ronnie Olson to the team as the new Client Services Coordinator. “We are very excited to have Ronnie join our team,” said Dan Culhane, President & CEO of the Ames Chamber of Commerce. “It is easy to…
Earlier this month, it was announced that Daisy Brand, a Dallas, Texas-based company, is planning to build a new state-of-the-art, 750,000 square foot facility in Boone in 2024. The makers of cottage cheese and sour cream, Daisy is a national brand that had the choice to land anywhere across the…
In April, I will celebrate 18 years at the Ames Chamber of Commerce. This is not a date or time of year that I have marked on my calendar to celebrate, but as I was reminded of it recently, it provided an opportunity of reflection. My economic development career began…
Last year, we helped develop Build a Better Boone, a collaboration that brought together key organizations across the Boone community on a regular basis. The key entities include the City of Boone, Boone County, Visit Boone County, Boone Community School District, Boone Chamber of Commerce, and the Boone County Economic Growth…
The Collegian Theater was one place where Ames residents could find relief from hot summer temperatures in the late 1930s. Built in 1937 by Joe Gerbach’s Ames Theatre Company for $142,000, the Collegian is remembered for its art deco front, neon signs, glorious sounds and state-of-the-art lighting. The place was known…
Over the past nine years, Alluvial Brewing, located in north Ames, has developed over 100 unique blends of beer, and has evolved and positioned themselves as a social outlet for ale and lager enthusiasts, and music lovers. Elliot Thompson opened the brewery in March 2015, along with co-developers Jason Peterson…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Program focuses on educating and engaging members on key legislative issues and initiatives impacting the Ames MSA. Maintaining strong relationships with federal, state, and locally elected officials is a key tenet of the Ames Chamber of Commerce, and a service we are proud…
The Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center will break ground later this spring, bringing to Ames a facility that will meet the indoor swimming needs of the community. The new 38,900 square foot facility will be located on Lincoln Way, west of Grand Avenue, across from the Iowa Department of Transportation…
If your new year’s resolution is to hit the pavement more often to get in shape for that upcoming 5K, or simply with a renewed interest in getting back in shape, then you should get to know Seth Kilborn at Fitness Sports. “Our goal with Fitness Sports – Ames is…
The USDA National Centers for Animal Health (NCAH) facility, located on Dayton Avenue and visible from Interstate 35, is at the center of livestock research, foreign disease diagnostics and vaccine/biologic regulation for the nation. The 523-acre campus includes 93 buildings and three separate yet intertwined governmental centers: USDA’s National Animal…
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Story County is in the final stages of a capital improvement campaign that will expand and modernize their current location. The $7 million project will add 7,500 square feet to the south of their existing building, as well as provide needed updates throughout the…
Todd & Sargent has specialized in design, engineering, and construction since 1933, and their name is synonymous as one of the early pioneers in the grain elevator construction business in Iowa. Since its founding, the company has become a recognized design, engineering, and construction leader in the food and ag…
The concept of an escape room is simple: challengers are locked in a room and need to discover clues, solve puzzles, and accomplish tasks in a set amount of time in order to escape from the room. No Escape Iowa offers three levels for challengers: easy, moderate, and hard. Jon…
Woodworking techniques combined with the latest trends and custom graphics is what created the DIY Board & Brush Creative Studio concept. Now with a location in Ames, Board & Brush wants to turn you into a DIY master by educating you to understand and appreciate the beauty of raw materials—the…
Have you ever wanted to learn how to make French macarons, Vietnamese egg rolls, artisanal sourdough, or a delicious apple tart? Consider taking a class at The Recipe, a new culinary venue in Downtown Ames. The venue is owned and operated by Patrick and Mindy Bergstrom, proprietors of other Downtown…
After twelve years of considering proposals for a new hotel or the extensive remodeling of one of the old existing hotels, a group of Ames business leaders organized the Ames Improvement Company to carry out the community’s desire to have a hotel that would meet not only immediate needs but…
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