Institute for Decision Making at UNI

?? Reflecting on Gratitude this Thanksgiving ?? At the Institute for Decision Making, we’re thankful for the partnerships, collaboration, and shared commitment that drive meaningful progress across Iowa’s communities. This Thanksgiving, we express our gratitude for: ?? Leaders and organizations dedicated to strengthening local economies. ?? Community members who inspire innovative solutions. ?? The opportunity to support communities in their pursuit of vibrant, sustainable futures. As we celebrate this season of gratitude, let’s remember the power of coming together to create lasting impact. Wishing you a warm and joyful Thanksgiving from all of us at the Institute for Decision Making! ???? #Gratitude #Thanksgiving #CommunityImpact #InstituteForDecisionMaking #BuildaBetterIowa

On Monday, IDM staff had the privilege of facilitating the Iowa Rural Business Initiative (RBI) cohort meeting at ISG in Des Moines! This dynamic group of community leaders came together to share ideas, tackle challenges, and explore new strategies to support rural businesses and drive economic growth. With the support of a Wells Fargo grant, the RBI program is hosted by the Iowa Rural Development Council and is creating sustainable change by connecting communities with resources, peer networks, and actionable solutions. We’re inspired by the commitment and creativity of these leaders and excited to see the impact they’ll make for their business communities. A big thank you to all participants and partners for making this meeting such a success!

We’re in Omaha this week with over 200 other rural economic developers from across the country! If you’re interested in learning more about the National Rural Economic Developers Association, let us know!

?? When was the last time your organization conducted a strategic plan? ?? Strategic planning is more than just setting goals; it’s about charting a clear direction for growth, aligning your team’s efforts, and adapting to new challenges and opportunities. Regular strategic planning ensures your organization stays focused, resilient, and ready for the future. At the Institute for Decision Making, we support organizations in building actionable plans that drive impact. Learn more about how our approach can help set your organization on the path to success: https://lnkd.in/gHX_km3u #StrategicPlanning #Leadership #FutureReady #InstituteForDecisionMaking #OrganizationalGrowth

?? Can Iowa Win the Competition for Child Care? ?? Child care challenges impact Iowa’s workforce, talent attraction, and economic growth. Our article examines Iowa’s child care landscape, highlighting current issues, impactful policy initiatives, and potential solutions to support working families. Read the article to see how communities and leaders are addressing this critical issue: https://lnkd.in/gNsjGsXt #ChildCare #IowaEconomy #WorkforceDevelopment #CommunitySupport

?? IDM is Expanding Our Economic Impact Analysis Services! ?? IDM has enhanced our two-page economic analysis summary report! ?? The report now includes labor income and value-added impact data, in addition to the standard employment and output impacts. We are also offering an optional third page that includes the tax impacts that can be attributed to the company that is expanding or locating in a community. In most cases, these can be turned around in just two to three days. Check out an example of these reports: https://lnkd.in/ePvgDv5G ?? Please contact IDM Research Manager Cindy Angel ([email protected]) with any questions regarding IDM’s Economic Impact Analysis services!

The 2025 Heartland course is filling up quickly! Share the details with a new economic developer in your network. #EconomicDevelopment #2025Heartland

Have you registered for the 2nd Annual IA-CEO Employee Ownership Conference hosted by Iowa Center for Employee Ownership? Here's what you can expect: --> Gain insights from leading experts in the field of employee ownership. Speakers will share their extensive knowledge on topics ranging from the fundamentals of employee ownership to advanced strategies for success. --> Be inspired by stories from companies that have successfully transitioned to employee ownership. Hear firsthand accounts of the challenges they faced, the solutions they implemented, and impact made on all stakeholders. Register online: https://lnkd.in/gWhZE7zS #ESOP #EmployeeOwned

?? Curious about the impact of recreational amenities on your community? Check out this valuable resource to learn how recreational spaces can boost local economies, enhance quality of life, and drive community engagement. Explore the insights here: https://lnkd.in/gPip_J72 #CommunityDevelopment #RecreationalAmenities #EconomicImpact #QualityOfLife #PlanIowa

?? Exciting news! UNI-Institute for Decision Making will be at the Professional Developers of Iowa (PDI) Fall Conference! ?? Come say hi during exhibitor breaks and learn more about how we can help your community, region, or organization with strategic planning, facilitation, market research, or just want to connect!? Check out the full agenda here: https://lnkd.in/gPM-hVEf #EconomicDevelopment #IowaGrowth #PDIowa #InstituteForDecisionMaking #Networking #BuildaBetterIowa