Iowa has entered the new century with an unparalleled sense of energy and growth. Our business climate is strong and so are the bottom-line benefits our state brings to new and expanding companies. As the good news about Iowa’s advantages spread, businesses from around the world are locating and expanding their operations here.

Geography

Iowa is the 23^rd largest of the 50 U.S. States and consists of 99 counties. It is centrally located both in the heart of North America and the NAFTA corridor. With the Missouri River to the west and the Mississippi to the east, Iowa is the only state bordered by two navigable rivers.

Transportation

Iowa is within a day’s drive to the key markets of Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Kansas City, St. Louis, Milwaukee and Denver. Drive time to Mexico is 2-3 days, and Canada is just 1-2 days. Iowa products traveling by rail can reach one quarter of the nation in a day, and the farest point in 4 days. Iowa’s 113 airports, 11 of which are commercial, are within a 30-minute drive from every Iowa community.

Education

Iowa-educated youth have led the nation in college entrance exams for the past 2 decades. Iowa has three state universities, and 56 public and private colleges, including 15 community colleges on 29 campuses. Iowa’s universities are highly esteemed worldwide for advanced research and innovative partnerships with the state’s business communities.

Lifestyle

In 2009 Iowa was named the "Second Most Livable State" by CQ Press. Additionally, Iowa has the 6th shortest commute to work time in the nation, allowing Iowans to spend more time with their families and friends (U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2007).

Tourism

The economic impact of Iowa's tourism industry has risen to $6.4 billion (2008), employing more than 64,000 people statewide. 20 welcome centers throughout the state provide information on Iowa’s attractions and events. For more information see the Iowa tourism Web Site at:  www.traveliowa.com

The Iowa Department of Economic Development

The International Division of the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) performs many functions, all of which are designed to strengthen Iowa’s presence in the international marketplace. The Division has three offices that work together to promote Iowa products and services overseas, attract foreign investment into the state, and educate Iowans on topics related to exporting and doing business in other countries.

Visit the IDED International site at: http://www.iowalifechanging.com/

See QuickFacts - U.S. Census if you're looking for a quick source of facts about Iowa's people, business and geography.

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