Investments compound over time, leading to growth, and now, Greater Iowa City, Inc. (Greater IC) is leading the way to strengthen Johnson County.
Recently, Johnson County and Greater IC was selected to be part of the nonprofit Heartland Forward’s new Center for Investment Readiness (CIR) to strengthen economic momentum and prepare for growth.
CIR is a research hub and strategic initiative to enhance “investor confidence and support new and thriving businesses in the heartland.”
Greater IC is a network of business and public sector leaders who collaborate to support local companies across the county.
The county was chosen to participate in the program because of its strong track record of “commitment to collaborative, place-based development,” exemplified by Greater IC’s Strategic Investment District programs. Greater IC will be a part of the economic development opportunity through 2030.
The three strategic investment districts are in North Liberty’s Cherry Street corridor (including a few parks, schools, a clinic and the community center), Iowa City’s Sycamore corridor (which includes two schools, a mall and a park) and the 5th Street district in Coralville, which encompasses a park, several apartment complexes, businesses and the Iowa River Power building.
What will the Center for Investment Readiness program do?
CIR will strengthen long-term readiness and resilience while identifying where capital is and isn’t flowing, how Johnson County compares to other regions, what barriers entrepreneurs face, and how community partners can better align to support investment countywide.
The work aims to create “clearer pathways for employers, entrepreneurs, investors, neighborhoods, and civic partners countywide,” according to a news release.
What are the anticipated outcomes of Johnson County’s involvement in CIR?
Greater IC and Heartland Forward will work together to build a clear picture of investment readiness, including a stronger, data-backed case for investment, better alignment with partners, achievable long-term growth strategies across communities, strengthened support for local businesses, and clearer development pathways.
Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and education reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at JRish@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_
This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Johnson County, Greater IC join program to boost investment readiness
Reporting by Jessica Rish, Iowa City Press-Citizen / Iowa City Press-Citizen
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