Why Iowa

IOWA provides the ideal climate for business growth and innovation. The state’s pro-business policies, nationally recognized research centers and legendary Midwestern work ethic combined with the nation’s lowest cost of doing business give businesses with an Iowa location a huge competitive edge. Those business advantages fuel an innovation economy in high growth industries including renewable energy, information technology, advanced manufacturing, biosciences and food processing and packaging.

• Business Advantages — Iowa’s tax structure, policies and labor costs offer businesses advantages that foster a healthy bottom line and continuous innovation.
• Innovation — From quality public education to research institutions to financial incentives and grant programs for entrepreneurs to the Iowa Innovation Council, we innovate. Ideas start and grow in Iowa.
• Targeted Industries — Iowa offers even more advantages for our growth industries such as renewable energy, biosciences, advanced manufacturing, food processing and packaging and information solutions and financial services. Find out more about Iowa’s advantages for these industries.
• Quality of Life — Life in Iowa is good. Iowa’s cities consistently receive high quality of life and happiness rankings because you can find balance between meeting your career objectives and enjoying your family and community. Iowa is home of the 15-minute commute, has top-quality public education, friendly neighbors and vibrant entertainment and recreation options.
• Education — Quality public education is a reality in Iowa. We have the second highest public school graduation rate in the country and the highest SAT scores. Education is the foundation of Iowa’s spirit of innovation, educating the business leaders of tomorrow.
• Export Statistics — Iowa is a national export leader in raw commodities like corn, soybeans, eggs, and pork, but also in finished goods like farm and construction equipment.
• 50 States Comparison — Iowa consistently ranks among the nation’s leaders for top quality of life concerns like low cost of insurance, short commute times and quality education and has a low cost of doing business and low utility rates. Compare Iowa to other states here.
• Statistics & Data — Statistics and data to show how Iowa compares to other states in key business and lifestyle factors.
• Maps
• Demographics