The City of Boone announces the availability of grant funding to support major home improvements and repairs to those that qualify. This grant program is designed to assist Boone homeowners in fixing up their homes. Funding partners include the City of Boone and the Central Iowa Housing Trust Fund (CIHTF). …
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…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce and affiliate organizations is excited to announce the 2022 Annual Award winners. The award recipients will be honored at an event on Thursday, January 26, 2023, at Prairie Moon Winery in Ames. Since 1987, the Ames Chamber of Commerce has recognized individuals and businesses who…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the participants who have been selected for Leadership Ames Class XXXVI: Leadership Ames is a program of the Ames Chamber of Commerce that offers the opportunity for participants to gain experience in civic leadership responsibilities and cultivate relationships with other local…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce and Ames Economic Development Commission are excited to introduce the 2023 Board Chairs for their respective Board of Directors. Reynolds Cramer will serve as the Board Chair for the Ames Economic Development Commission and Michelle Vogel will serve as the Board Chair for the Ames…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Commission is excited to announce our new 2023-2027 Strategic Plan. Created by Ames Chamber of Commerce leadership, in collaboration with the executive members of each board of directors, the plan is designed to guide the organization, and affiliate organizations, for the next…
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…
The City of Boone, Boone County, Iowa Department of Transportation, and Fareway Stores, Inc., celebrated the opening of the Iowa 17 overpass with a ceremony on Wednesday, December 7, 2022. The Iowa DOT constructed the overpass to improve driver safety and traffic flow in the area by allowing traffic to…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce promotions for two team members: Steven Lawrence and Sarah Dvorsky. As Director of Marketing, Steven Lawrence will support the marketing efforts for the Ames Chamber of Commerce and affiliate organizations. Lawrence has been with the Ames Chamber of Commerce for over…
A new hardware store in Madrid, True Value, is expected to open this spring. Stacey and Jesse Bannor have been business owners for over a decade, launching Bannor Toys in Des Moines back in 2011. After moving their growing business to Madrid in 2016, the Bannor Family has not only…
In leadership, the axiom goes that “you’re only as good as your team.” In my career, I have grown to appreciate and understand how true this is. This week, we welcomed two new members to our Ames Chamber of Commerce team. I am incredibly excited to see what they will…
The Ames Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Commission is excited to welcome Shannon Thiele to the team as Director of Member Retention & Affiliate Programming. “Shannon is a wonderful addition, and the right fit, for our Ames Chamber of Commerce team,” said Dan Culhane, President & CEO of the…
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…
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…
As July comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on the conversations happening across our community. Last week, we shared an op-ed, We Owe It to Ourselves to Consider the Opportunity, regarding the possibility of a data center locating in Ames. I knew it might not be a universally popular position,…
As we close another productive month at the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, I’ve been reflecting on the important role our organization plays in shaping the future of our region. Earlier this month, members of the Alliance team and regional partners joined Governor Kim Reynolds at the Iowa State Capitol as…
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…
Leadership transitions are defining moments for institutions and communities alike. They are opportunities to reflect on the past while setting a renewed course for the future. Here in the Ames region, we are experiencing just such a moment with the appointment of Dr. David Cook as the next president of…
As we close out the month, I’ve had the opportunity to stand in a couple of very different places and be reminded that they are all part of the same story. Recently, I joined partners at the ribbon cutting for the Advanced Magnet Facility at Ames National Laboratory. Not long after,…
This April, I will celebrate 20 years as CEO of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. Candidly, when I started in April of 2006, I envisioned staying five to seven years. But life happens. Kids grow up, schedules fill, and you learn quickly what you do not want to disrupt. Before…
As we wrap up the month, I want to take a moment to reflect on one of the most meaningful gatherings of the year to date for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance: our 2025 Annual Awards celebration. Since 1987, this event has served as more than a ceremony, but as…
As we close out another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on one of December’s highlights for our organization. If you attended our Annual Event earlier this month, I hope you enjoyed our keynote speaker, Valerie Grubb, an internationally recognized keynote speaker and author on leadership. I…
As we close out November, I’m reminded that this season naturally brings a sense of gratitude and we have much to be thankful for across the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. We’re in the season of many of our affiliate organizations hosting their annual events, giving us the opportunity to recognize…
As we near the end of another busy month, I’m reminded of a saying I used recently: “Success has many fathers, failure is an orphan.” I’ve been told I have a lot of these sayings. I credit President Kennedy with this one, but it certainly applies to our organization and the momentum…
The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is pleased to announce the participants who have been selected for Leadership Ames Class 39: Leadership Ames is a program of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance that offers the opportunity for participants to gain experience in civic leadership responsibilities and cultivate relationships with other local…
WEBSTER CITY, Iowa – The Hamilton County Growth Partnership is pleased to announce a major infrastructure investment that will support safety, mobility, and long-term economic vitality in Hamilton County. The 93-year-old Williams Overpass Bridge, located on R75 along the west edge of the City of Williams, will be replaced thanks 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…
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…
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…
Walk into Bluestem Boulders, and you’ll immediately feel the energy—chalk dust in the air, climbers eyeing their next move, and the hum of encouragement from all corners of the gym. This isn’t just a place to work out; it’s a place to belong. Since opening in 2024, Bluestem Boulders has…
As On Track Construction moves into its eighth year, CEO Matt Runge envisions not only continued business expansion but also a deeper commitment to supporting the community. “We like to give,” he says, “but more importantly, we want our contributions to make an impact.” On Track, which specializes in underground…
In the heart of Ames, Iowa, a group of entrepreneurs are reshaping the way communities engage with high school sports. Meet the founders of Bound, a company that’s become the go-to resource for tracking high school athletics in the state of Iowa and beyond. Through their innovative approach, Bound has…
Art Ciccotti’s journey into the world of glassblowing began with a passion ignited during his time at Iowa State University. Originally from Southern California, Ciccotti relocated to Ames, Iowa, where he pursued a degree in Art and Design with an emphasis in Art Education. It was at Iowa State that…
In the heart of Story City, Iowa, a quiet yet powerful force is driving the future of renewable energy. Generation Repair and Service (GRS), a NextEra Energy Resources facility, which is a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, has been a cornerstone of the clean energy sector since its establishment in 2009….
This spring, Ames Main Street unveiled their transformative plan that aims to enhance its vibrancy and appeal. The “Downtown Ames: A Guiding Vision for the Future” outlines strategic improvements to position the area as a premier destination in central Iowa. “The guiding document is not a fixed plan, predetermined roadmap,…
For nearly 23 years, Heather Johnson has been a driving force behind the Octagon Center for the Arts, shaping its growth and impact on Ames. Since joining the Octagon, she has played a pivotal role in organizing the Octagon Art Festival since 2002 and has led as Executive Director since…
LIFT WC, which stands for Local Initiative for Transformation in Webster City, is a non-profit organization dedicated to revitalizing the community. The organization is in the final stages of a $3 million renovation of the historic Elks Building in downtown Webster City, a project that serves as a catalyst for…
When driving along Interstate 35 between Ames and Ankeny, you may have wondered, “What is that big brown building next to Ditch Witch in Huxley?” For the 170 employees working there, that building represents more than just a structure: it’s the home base for Continental Manufacturing Chemist (CMC), a leading…
Dr. Jason Niegsch (pronounced “Nicks”) and his wife, Marcie, have called Dentistry At Somerset their dental clinic location since 2002. Last year, after practicing at this location for over 22 years, they made a significant investment in the community to more than double their patient capacity. In July 2024, the…
“Who would have thought that the art of nails could save lives?” This is the question that Bi Ayers, owner of Pro Nails in Ames, asks in Polished, his 2023 book that is part memoir and part business book. “The idea of writing a book was not to tell the…
In October, the Ames History Museum (AHM) held a grand reopening event celebrating their new expansion project and permanent installation. The weekend event saw nearly 1,000 guests visit the Museum, officially launching a new era for the organization. Founded in 1980, the Ames History Museum provides unique opportunities to learn…
