The Professional Developers of Iowa (PDI) has awarded a Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Award to the Ames Economic Development Commission (AEDC) for the John Deere Technology Innovation Center in the Iowa State University Research Park in Ames.
“The John Deere project in the Iowa State University Research Park (ISURP) represents the strength of local partnerships and the commitment to continued economic growth for our community," said Dan Culhane, President and CEO of the Ames Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Commission. "On behalf of the AEDC, ISURP, Iowa State University (ISU) and the City of Ames, I am extremely proud to accept this award. The fact that a Fortune 500 company chose to expand its footprint here demonstrates the powerful influence of Iowa State University as well as the strength of our existing industry, workforce and economic outlook."
The John Deere project included a $10 million investment through the construction of a 33,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art sprayer test facility, 16 new jobs and additional opportunities for ISU students. The facility eliminated company travel away from Iowa in winter months to test and monitor crop results and added vale to the long-term relationship between John Deere and ISU. Furthermore, the project required infrastructure extension that opened new land for development and enhanced traffic movement on a new roadway.
The BRE Award recognizes a single project in which a community successfully mobilized to retain or expand an existing business. Consideration was given to the process of identifying the opportunity, collaboration with local, regional and/or state partners and the ability to respond quickly.
For More Information:
For questions or more information, contact Brenda Dryer, Senior Vice President, Ames Chamber of Commerce, at 515-232-2310 or by email at brenda@ameschamber.com.
