About Us
The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance combines the economic and community development efforts of the former Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, Cedar Rapids Downtown District and Priority One. The new organization began January 1, 2012.
Through the following core functions of business support, economic development & workforce, community development, and public policy, we strive to be the top economic growth region in the country.
Check out the events calendar for upcoming Economic Alliance signature events!
Business Support
Our Business Support core function is dedicated to creating a strong business environment which supports all employers. The Economic Alliance focuses on small and locally-owned businesses to engage and connect them through networking, business and professional development programs.
See more in Business Resources.
Community Development
The Economic Alliance's Community Development core function is focused on growing core districts in Cedar Rapids and supporting surrounding communities. We work to implement strategic plans for core area housing, signature streets and beautification, quality of life events and flood protection progress.
See more in Our Community.
Economic Development & Workforce
The Economic Development core function of Economic Development & Workforce is designed to grow and retain new and existing business. Our focus is targeted toward bio-processing/food ingredients, distribution/logistics, electronic equipment/design, food processing, financial services/insurance, information technology, process manufacturing and wind energy.
Public Policy
The Economic Alliance is focused on public policy advocacy that supports the organization's other four core functions: Business Support, Community Development, and Economic Development & Workforce.
The Economic Alliance collaborates with the business community and other stakeholders and partners, including local municipalities and entities and Iowa Chamber Alliance, to develop a local, state and federal policy agenda. We then provide a unified voice to advocate for pro-business and pro-growth issues key to our members and the region.
See more in Public Policy.
Economic Alliance News
YMCA - An Amazing Space
Nov 23, 2022
Many members of our community are navigating obstacles and challenges in their every day lives, and the Cedar Rapids Metro YMC… Read More
Local Company Helps Clients Go Green
Nov 04, 2022
We all strive to be environmentally responsible throughout our lives. We recycle. We compost. We conserve energy.AMTek Microwave… Read More
Discussions Around DEI Remain Top of Mind for the ICR Region
Oct 24, 2022
When diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) are ingrained in a society’s core, it’s a win for everyone. An equitable business com… Read More
Squeeze in Summer Fun Before Fall Officially Arrives
Sep 15, 2022
According to the calendar, it’s still officially summer. So, before you put pumpkins on the porch or hang skeletons in your yard… Read More
Big Little City for Your Housing Investment
Sep 14, 2022
Moving to a new city is a life changing decision. Whether it’s for a new career opportunity or to move closer to family, inves… Read MoreMission, Vision, and Values
VISION
TO BE THE TOP ECONOMIC GROWTH REGION IN THE COUNTRY.
MISSION
TO DRIVE ECONOMIC, WORKFORCE AND POPULATION GROWTH STRATEGIES, AND TO HELP BUSINESSES SUCCEED.
VALUES
- WE VALUE OUR MEMBERS AND STRIVE TO EXCEED THEIR EXPECTATIONS.
- WE EMBRACE INNOVATION IN OUR WORK.
- WE FOCUS ON COLLABORATIVE RELATIONSHIPS IN EVERYTHING WE DO.
- WE ARE COMMITTED TO A HIGH-PERFORMANCE CULTURE, CENTERED ON CORE COMPETENCIES.