The Iowa City Downtown District (ICDD) has launched an economic development website to provide prospective businesses with information and resources needed to set up shop within the city.
The website, LocateDowntownIowaCity.com, is a collaboration between ICDD and the city of Iowa City to connect entrepreneurs, brokers, business owners, and developers with resources and opportunities in the area.
“Those of us living and working in Iowa City already know there is something unique about this area. With this initiative, we are able to more clearly communicate what sets Iowa City and Downtown Iowa City apart as a great place to do business”, said Rachel Kilburg Varley, economic development coordinator for the City of Iowa City.
The platform is designed to streamline access to essential information about downtown commercial properties, development incentives, and support services. Users will find an interactive property database, market insights, and guidance on navigating city processes for opening or expanding businesses.
According to a release, it’s all part of ICDD’s ongoing commitment to fostering a dynamic and prosperous business environment.
“This is another tool for the ICDD to use for our business retention, recruitment, and growth as we are constantly working towards an ideal merchandise mix”, said Iowa City Downtown District executive director, Betsy Potter. “Showcasing what makes Downtown Iowa City such a unique and authentic commercial hub, while acknowledging there is a lot of opportunity for growth in many areas is something we needed to do a better job of, as an organization.”
Key Features of LocateDowntownIowaCity.com include:
- Interactive Property Database: A comprehensive map with listings of first floor occupied commercial spaces and available spaces for lease or purchase.
- Business Resources: Guidance on grant funding, leasing tips, business assistance programs, parking and transportation information, and connecting with community resources.
- Success Stories: Inspiring profiles of downtown and northside businesses that showcase the vibrant and collaborative existing business environment.
- Market Insights & Demographics: Critical data on customer behavior, workforce composition, visitor traffic, and other essential statistics to help businesses make informed decisions.
The website is anticipated to be a valuable resource for insights into the city’s ecosystem for current businesses and stakeholders, while highlighting Iowa City’s appeal as a cultural and commercial destination as well as its economic potential.
With this website, the release stated, ICDD is hoping to encourage investment, spark innovation, and strengthen the community’s economic foundation.
“Downtown Iowa City has long been a center of small business for the region. Our ongoing work is to ensure it stays that way and one of the most important things we can do is to make it as easy as possible to locate here,” said Ms. Potter.
