The Iowa City South District Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District, or SSMID, is rebranding to South of 6 Business District, according to Executive Director Angie Jordan. Approved in January 2022 by Iowa City Council, the SSMID first rose to prominence by raising funds through a voluntary tax levy on commercial, industrial and multi-residential properties in south […]
The Iowa City South District Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District, or SSMID, is rebranding to South of 6 Business District, according to Executive Director Angie Jordan.
Approved in January 2022 by Iowa City Council, the SSMID first rose to prominence by raising funds through a voluntary tax levy on commercial, industrial and multi-residential properties in south Iowa City.
After appointing leader Angie Jordan as executive director in September, the organization was exploring a name change.
"We just approved our name and brand last week," said Ms. Jordan in an email. "It's so exciting to have a name and a face [to the business]."
She said she will meet with the group's newly formed marketing committee later this week to roll out their website, social media and launch party date.
Construction for the South District Market, a year-round indoor market at Pepperwood Plaza by real estate firm SouthGate Companies, is expected to be
open to the public next month, the CBJ reported in December.
Down to Business
A new lunch and learn series will also launch and is hoping to connect local, underserved small business owners and entrepreneurs starting Feb. 16.
The series, called Down to Business and hosted at
Dream City, will provide year-round education, resources and networking opportunities and is led by local economic development leaders Ms. Jordan and Marlén Mendoza, in collaboration with South of 6.
Its first installment is called "How to Finance Your Business" and it will take place Feb. 16.
"If you are a small business owner or entrepreneur seeking continuing education for your business, this event is for you," a press release said. "Meet other small business owners, local entrepreneurs and community leaders, and get answers to your financial questions from a panel of area experts."
The series is borne out of the Johnson County Inclusive Ecnonomic Development Plan and is partnering with America's SBDC - University of Iowa and Johnson County. Fiscal sponsors for the pilot program are Hills Bank and MidWestOne Bank.
Ms. Jordan is the founder of Banjo Knits Empowerment and a co-founder of the
South Side Diversity Market.
Ms. Mendoza is the founder of Mendoza Consulting and a co-founder of
Emprendimiento Latino 5M, a group looking to empower Latino entrepreneurs in Iowa City.
Upcoming topics will include financial literacy, licensing and permits.
Those interested in participating should
register by Feb. 13. Lunch will be provided at no additional cost.
