Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance

Big news! Barbra Solberg, our Public Policy Strategist, has been selected for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's prestigious Business Leads Fellowship Program! 🎉 This program equips chamber leaders from around the country with the tools and connections to tackle pivotal workforce and educational challenges. We’re proud to have a representative of the 319 in the cohort- Way to go, Barbra! Read the full press release here: https://bit.ly/3Y3g1cc

Becoming an official Ambassador for the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance offers a host of personal and professional benefits, but don’t just take our word for it! Read or latest blog post to see what our current Ambassadors have to say about their experiences so far: https://bit.ly/4c15HHs If you are already interested in becoming an Ambassador, apply now before the March 31 deadline: https://bit.ly/3QPoHPB

New poll results from the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance show growing support for the school bond referendum—but economic uncertainty is making passage tougher. Even strong supporters say concerns about their family budgets make it a hard vote right now. Read here for the full story: https://bit.ly/420vdIt

Cybersecurity is a universal need 🌎 Whether working for a company or surfing the web at home, everyone can benefit from understanding and using safe cyber practices. Join Clay Swanson from TrueNorth Companies, L.C. for our next Let's Get Down to Business session on April 10th. Registration is free but seats are limited, so register now: https://lnkd.in/gsY3YSnb

🤝 Ingredion’s Expansion: A Win for Our Community and Beyond. The Economic Alliance is thrilled for the recently announced expansion at Ingredion Incorporated.🌽 💡Did you know: The starch Ingredion makes is made from IOWA corn, which is BIO-based and more environmentally friendly than traditional petroleum-based chemicals? Ingredion’s $48 million expansion project is not just an investment in Cedar Rapids — it’s an investment in our region’s future. This project will create new jobs, strengthen our local economy, and generate increased demand for corn grown by farmers across eastern Iowa. As a true “foundational” company in Cedar Rapids, Ingredion’s impact extends far beyond city limits, supporting both urban growth and rural prosperity. We are grateful for the collaboration and commitment from Ingredion, the State of Iowa, and the City of Cedar Rapids in helping to drive economic growth and opportunity for our community. Thank you for growing our community! Learn more about their expansion here: https://shorturl.at/Dlx95

This week's issue is all about supporting the community we call home, headlined by our Buy 319 initiative. You can also find information on how to become an Ambassador, and a sneak peak at the upcoming market season. Enjoy!

🥳 It’s 319 Day! 🤩 Today we’re giving away 3 $100 Buy319 gift cards, running a BOGO promotion and celebrating all things local businesses, Head to www.buy319.com to see how you can be a buy local champion. Take the pledge, make the change, support local! More details to come 👀

🌳Reminder: Our March BizMix is this Thursday!🌳 Join us at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex for a networking session full of food, drinks, and new connections. We know you’ll enjoy your stay. 📅Thursday, March 20 🕔4:00-6:00 PM 📍350 First Ave NE, Cedar Rapids BizMix is free for all attendees, and brings together area professionals for an evening of casual networking over complimentary hors d'oeuvres and cocktails. This event provides EA members with increased opportunities for participation and connections. We hope to see you there!

🌟Roundup of February Milestones in Our Community🌟 February saw three new organizations join the Cedar Rapids Metro. Welcome to our community, we’re delighted to have you! 🥩🔥The Fireside Tavern 😷🧼 True North Restoration of Iowa 🔧🏗️ Baker Group A huge congratulations to everyone involved!

💡 Exciting Leadership Opportunity 🤝 The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance is searching for its next President & CEO — a dynamic leader ready to drive economic, workforce, and population growth strategies in our vibrant region. With the support of 1,200 member businesses and a passionate team, this role offers a unique chance to shape the future of Cedar Rapids and its surrounding communities. If you're a visionary leader with executive experience in economic development, chamber leadership, or related fields — or if you know someone who fits the bill — we encourage you to explore this opportunity! 🔗 Learn more and view the full job posting: https://lnkd.in/gc4bsVbQ #CedarRapids #EconomicDevelopment #LeadershipOpportunity #JoinOurTeam #CedarRapidsMetroEconomicAlliance