Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance Launches 2026 Legislative Priorities, Driven by The Collective Voice of Regional Employers
December 10, 2025 | Public Policy
Pro-Business Advocacy Focuses on Talent, Workforce Growth & Economic Competitiveness
The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance today released its 2026 Public Policy Priorities, outlining the region’s most pressing economic issues. The pro-business advocacy agenda was shaped by the voices of more than 1,200 investors and represents businesses and community partners across Eastern Iowa.
“Our policy priorities reflect what matters most to the employers who power our region, including the small businesses that make up the backbone of our economy,” said Juliet Abdel, President & CEO of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. “When policymakers hear a strong, unified message from the business community, it leads to smarter decisions, stronger communities, and a more competitive Iowa.”
The 2026 priorities were developed through a comprehensive engagement process involving more than 200 representatives from 28 communities in eight counties. Business leaders, community partners, and public officials shared insights on issues spanning talent development, taxes, housing, energy, transportation, global competitiveness, and more.
“This agenda reflects the real needs of employers of all sizes across our region, with more than 55% of input coming from small businesses,” Abdel said. “All of the feedback helped form The Collective Voice agenda. Public policy shapes talent, infrastructure, affordability, and long-term competitiveness, and our Collective Voice ensures policymakers understand how their decisions affect the employers powering Eastern Iowa.”
“When businesses succeed, communities succeed,” said James Klein, President & CEO of Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust, and incoming Board Chair of the Economic Alliance. “The Economic Alliance brings together voices from every corner of the region so policymakers hear a clear and unified message. This agenda reflects the needs of small businesses, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and the workforce they support.”
Highlighted 2026 Public Policy Priorities
- Talent Development – Investing in education, workforce training, and industry partnerships.
- Workforce Population Growth – Supporting policies that expand Iowa’s workforce.
- Economic Growth & Tax Competitiveness – Advancing balanced tax structures that support business vitality.
- Global Competitiveness – Supporting export expansion, supply chain resilience, and international investment.
- Housing Availability – Increasing funding and reforms to expand housing opportunities.
A full list of priorities is available at cedarrapids.org/public-policy/public-policy-priorities.