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NFIB survey: Small business optimism drops in September, remains above historical average

Small business optimism declined in September for the first time in three months, according to a survey released Oct. 14 by by the National Federation of Independent Business. The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index fell 2 points to 98.8 in…

Iowa City, Coralville startups secure state funding for medical device, agriculture innovation

Three Iowa City and Coralville startups received state funding through the Iowa Economic Development Authority…

Iowa Economic Development Authority

Downtown Iowa City clothing boutique, Textiles, reopening this month under new ownership

A downtown Iowa City women’s clothing boutique is reopening under new ownership this month after…

Textiles' store sign at 105 S. Dubuque St. in the Ped Mall.

NewBo City Market named finalist for Levitt Foundation grant

NewBo City Market in Cedar Rapids is among 100 finalists nationwide competing for a $120,000…

NewBo City Market in Cedar Rapids is among 100 finalists nationwide competing for a $120,000 grant from the Levitt Foundation to support its free outdoor concert series.

Dark fantasy bookstore to open in Cedar Rapids’ Czech Village

A new independent bookstore embracing gothic and “witchy” themes will open Sept. 9 in Czech…

Sisters Books & Nooks

UI student, entrepreneur Dasia Taylor showcases NERD STEM Box on Good Morning America

A University of Iowa student and entrepreneur appeared Wednesday on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” showcasing…

Good Morning America host Michael Strahan and Dasia Taylor.

Glide & Go Skate City to launch this winter in Iowa City

A new skating rink will make its debut at the Iowa City Marketplace this winter.…

A rendering of one of the skating rinks at Glide & Go Skate City.

The Potters’ Obsession marks 25 years with summer celebration

The Potters’ Obsession, a paint-it-yourself pottery studio, will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a four-day…

A wall-length shelving unit teems with pottery waiting to be painted at The Potter's Obsession, 1941 51st St. NE Cedar Rapids.

FSB launches free seminar series for small businesses

Farmers State Bank (FSB) is launching a free, four-week program designed to provide entrepreneurs and…

FSB

City of Anamosa in final phase of downtown revitalization efforts

The city of Anamosa lies at the confluence of the Wapsipinicon River and Buffalo Creek,…

A painter on an extension ladder works on a second story building facade in downtown Anamosa on July 8, 2025.

Downtown Iowa City fair trade retailer rebrands, expands mission

Downtown Iowa City’s Ten Thousand Villages will rebrand as Mosaic Iowa City, marking what owner…

Liz Preciado, owner, and Deb Manning, assistant director, of Mosaic Iowa City. Ten Thousand Villages

North Liberty’s Copper Boar named CBJ’s Fastest Growing Company

There’s no requirement that partners in a locally-owned restaurant have a longstanding personal friendship that…

Ty Medema, Shane Durian and Zeph Leaton are the co-owners of Copper Boar American Pub in North Liberty, the CBJ’s Fastest-Growing Company in the Corridor for 2025. CREDIT RICHARD PRATT

Creativity is a state of mind for this Marion gift shop

A new gift shop in Uptown Marion is selling a little bit of inspiration mixed…

State of Mind owner Carissa Starleaf in her store July 7. CREDIT ANNIE SMITH BARKALOW

John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center taps Dana Rupe as new director

The University of Iowa John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC) has tapped Dana Rupe, founder of…

Dana Rupe, new director of the University of Iowa John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center.

NFIB Iowa director reacts to small business optimism increases

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Small Business Optimism Index rose three points in…

A woman stands outside her shop waiting for customers

Vintage shop The Glittering Pear to open in Uptown Marion

A new vintage and art boutique has opened in Uptown Marion, offering shoppers a mix…

A new vintage and art boutique is opening in Uptown Marion, offering shoppers a mix of antique finds and local handmade art.