The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is excited to welcome the 2026–2027 Rising Leaders Academy cohort. This year, the Alliance is collaborating with the Boone County Chamber of Commerce and the Story City Greater Chamber Connection to bring together high school students from across the region for an eight-month leadership development…
A ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 13, 2026, at 5:00pm will celebrate the transformation of a former Huxley assisted living facility into Northpark Row Apartments. An open house will follow the ceremony at 908 N US Hwy 69, Huxley, IA 50124. Developed by Coterie Real Estate, Northpark Row brings new life…
Members of the Colo City Council and the Story County Supervisors recently toured a completed speculative home in the new community. The council has worked for several years to support new housing opportunities in their community. Earlier this year they partnered with Keystone Equity Group providing them with infill lots…
For more than 25 years, West Street Deli has been serving toasted sandwiches, homemade soups, and scratch-made specialties in the heart of Ames’ Campustown district. Since taking ownership in 2019, Matthew White has worked to preserve the deli’s reputation while building on the traditions that made it a local favorite….
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is pleased to welcome Kalyn Klonglan as the new Community and Member Services Coordinator for the Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce. “We are excited to welcome Kalyn aboard and tap into her knowledge and experience as we continue to build a stronger, more connected…
There is something valuable about getting a group of community and business leaders out of their normal surroundings. We recently returned from our eighth Inter-City Visit, this time traveling to Athens, Georgia, with more than 30 leaders from across our four-county region. Every year, I’m reminded that these trips are…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance hosted its eighth Inter-City Visit September 23-25, bringing more than 30 community and business leaders from across Boone, Greene, Hamilton, and Story counties to Athens, Georgia. The annual visit gives regional leaders an opportunity to learn from another community, explore new ideas and identify opportunities…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance has a strong track record of working with local, state and federal elected officials to advance issues important to businesses, communities and the broader Ames region. Maintaining those relationships is a core part of the Alliance’s business advocacy work, which continues throughout the year and…
Following a period of detailed review, the Executive Board of Directors of Boone County Economic Growth Corporation (BCEGC) has signed a Letter of Intent with Lightedge Solutions LLC (Lightedge) to purchase 10 acres of land in the Boone Business Park for a colocation facility — a secure building that houses…
Boxcar BBQ celebrated the start of construction on its new restaurant with an official groundbreaking on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. The restaurant will be located along South Highway 210, adjacent to the High Trestle Trail in Slater. The restaurant owners and local leaders marked the beginning of the project start…
The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) recently announced $39.84 million in workforce housing tax credits to support development in 39 counties across the state. The awards will fund 69 projects expected to create over 2,000 new residential units. “When families have access to quality, affordable homes near good jobs, everyone…
One of the things I am most proud of about the Ames Regional Economic Alliance is the way our team continues to show up. Our staff is engaged in conversations, organizations, initiatives and projects across our region, and they continue to find new ways to lead and contribute. That commitment…
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…
The Webster City Gateway Industrial Park has officially been designated an Iowa Certified Site, marking a significant milestone for economic development in Hamilton County and the broader Central Iowa region. The achievement is the result of a collaborative effort between the City of Webster City, Ames Regional Economic Alliance, Hamilton…
The City of Ames has been awarded a $500,000 planning grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program, supporting the next phase of downtown transportation and infrastructure planning. The grant will fund planning and preliminary design work for the project titled “Multi-Modal Downtown Transit Hub in the City of…
The Boone County Economic Growth Corporation Board of Directors has announced the identification and optioning of 210 acres of land for future industrial development in the Boone community. This effort follows the 2024 announcement by Daisy Brand to construct a new manufacturing facility in Boone, an investment that will utilize…
The Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market will expand its footprint for the 2026 season, growing into the 200 block of Main Street in Downtown Ames. The expansion reflects the continued momentum and popularity of the market, which has become a weekly destination for local food, artisan goods, and community connection. Last season, attendance…
The AREA YP Mentorship Program connects young professionals with business leaders in our community, fostering growth, guidance, and career development. Through one-on-one mentorship, participants gain valuable insights, expand their networks, and build the skills needed to succeed in their industries. 2026 Mentorship Pairings: (Mentee – Mentor) “Expanding from 15 to…
The City of Slater has approved an application for $100,0000 in support from their economic development revolving loan fund. These funds will support the renovation and establishment of a new business in an historic building in the community’s downtown. Home Kneads, LLC is a locally owned sourdough bakery dedicated to…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is excited to welcome Jennifer Luengas-Otto as a new Director of Economic Development. In this role, Jennifer will lead Story County outreach and also serve as the Executive Director of the Nevada Economic Development Council (NEDC), supporting business growth, retention, and community development efforts throughout…
The City of Ellsworth has been awarded a $6,000 Ripple Effect grant from Ellsworth Cooperative Telephone Association (ECTA) and Aureon to support the development of a new Comprehensive Plan that will guide the community’s growth and development over the next decade. The Comprehensive Plan is being developed by students from…
Boone, Iowa — The grand opening of Prairie Place took place on December 9, marking the arrival of a new mixed-use residential and commercial development bringing 23 new homes to the Boone community, including 7 townhomes and 16 modern apartments designed to support workforce retention, neighborhood growth, and long-term community…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance and affiliate organizations are excited to announce the 2025 Annual Award winners. The award recipients will be honored at an event on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the Iowa State Memorial Union, presented by Northwest Bank. Since 1987, the Ames Regional Economic Alliance has recognized…
At an event held December 3, the City of Nevada and the Nevada Economic Development Council celebrated the official start of construction on the Sierra Heights neighborhood with a “snow (ground) breaking event”. In comments made at the event, Mayor Condon extended his gratitude for the investment to be made…
At an event held on December 3, the City of Boone, Boone County Chamber of Commerce and Boone County Economic Growth Corporation joined Kading Properties in celebrating the official opening of the Kate’s Landing neighborhood with a ribbon cutting event. In comments made at the event, Mayor Eli Stines stated,…
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…
This year’s Inter-City Visit to Lafayette / West Lafayette, Indiana, October 18-20, was an overwhelming success. This was the sixth Inter-City Visit that we have hosted, and each one has delivered on the purpose of learning from comparable communities. When selecting communities to visit, we always try to find those…
This past weekend, I walked my daughter Katie down the aisle and gave her hand to her husband (and my new son-in-law) Hugh. The ceremony and reception were perfect, and I could not be more proud of them as a couple. For some reason, I scheduled my annual physical examination…
I recently finished the book Fans First: Change the Game, Break the Rules, & Create an Unforgettable Experience by Jesse Cole. It was a book that was recommended to me by a colleague, and I must say it is an exceptional (and quick) read. Jesse Cole is the owner of the Savannah…
In July, the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, known to all of us as RAGBRAI, once again visited Ames as an overnight stop. This was the 50th anniversary of the Iowa summer tradition and Ames has been part of it from the beginning. Ames was an overnight stop…
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…
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…
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…
One of the three pillars that leads our work here at the Ames Chamber of Commerce is advocacy, or our ability to publicly support or privately recommend a course of action related to a particular cause. We want local businesses to succeed, and it is our responsibility, and honor, to…
I recently came to the realization that my job has changed. I still hold the title of President & CEO of our organization, but how I spend my time on any given week has shifted. I am not entirely sure when that happened, or necessarily how it happened, but I…
Who will be the next leader of the Ames Chamber of Commerce? It’s an odd question, but one that was proposed to me a few weeks ago by one of our board members. First and foremost, I have no plans to retire or move on from the work that we…
An end of year message can be challenging because it always aspires to condense the year that was, which is impossible. Therefore, I will not attempt to summarize the past twelve months, but rather talk about how our organization connects with our community as we move into 2023. I have…
Mid-States Companies, located and headquartered in Nevada, Iowa, is in the final stages of their most recent expansion effort: a 9,000 square foot administrative office building intended to bring together their range of businesses and services under one roof. The expansion is the latest in a long line of reinvestment…
A solo brand and website design agency in Ames, Studio A Designs focuses on connecting Iowa small business owners with their dream buyers. Founder and rural Iowa native Amanda Thompson helps businesses uncover their standout qualities, unique personality traits, visual differentiators, and more to develop brands that locals love! “My…
Ryan Newstrom, owner of Cornbred Barbecue, was the personal tailgate chef when the RV There Yet? Discovery Channel show recorded a segment of their episode in the RV Village at Jack Trice Stadium. “Cooking and serving delicious food is my favorite thing in the world,” said Newstrom. “I appreciate the…
Building an alliance is a strategic move that can significantly amplify an organization’s reach, resources, and impact. When the Ames Regional Economic Alliance formally rebranded from the Ames Chamber of Commerce in June 2024, it was the culmination of years of work under the leadership of President and CEO, Dan…
In many ways, the origin story of Saltech Systems, a full-service technology agency located in Ames, began in Pakistan when Salman Maqsood was 13 years old. “Hailing from a family of physicians while growing up in Pakistan, it was understood that I will follow the family tradition,” said Maqsood. “But…
Colorbiotics, a Sika Company, headquartered in Ames, Iowa, has been innovating products that enhance the beauty of homes, businesses, parks, and athletic facilities for more than 30 years. In short, they are the industry leader in the science behind landscape and concrete colorant and equipment. Kent Rotert serves as Vice…
Mark Speck, owner of Speck Plumbing, Inc., has been an active part of the development of Ames for over 50 years. “I grew up in Ames north of 24th Street and Highway 69,” said Speck. “Our family farmed the area that is now occupied by North Grand Mall and Northwood…
“The future of Agriculture is not about blindly throwing increasingly expensive inputs and precious resources at our food, fiber, and now fuel production,” said Roger Underwood during this keynote presentation at the 2024 Agriculture Breakfast event. “The future of agriculture is borderless and global,” as he provided a worldly perspective…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance hosted the 2024 Inter-City Visit from September 11-13, where city and community leaders from Boone, Hamilton, and Story County toured Fargo, North Dakota, and met with their community leaders. “The goal of the 2024 Inter-City Visit is straightforward,” said Dan Culhane, President & CEO of…
This spring, the City of Ames prepared an Urban Revitalization Area (URA) designation to include a plan for incentivizing construction of new housing. The Council action form stated that “expanding housing options with the community is both desirable and necessary for the economic health of the city,” and that qualified…
Engagement and giving back to the community are part of the fabric of First National Bank, located in Downtown Ames. They were the presenting sponsor of this year’s 515 Days, a three-day event that included a nighttime farmers’ market with food trucks, vendors, and live music, kid and family activities,…
The Boone Community School District and Mary Greeley Medical Center (MGMC) established a partnership to provide students with opportunities to explore healthcare careers during the 2020-2021 school year. Gracie Boon, a 2024 graduate of Boone High School, is one of the beneficiaries of that partnership. Thanks to her experience through…
