Partners and Business Assistance

Whether you're an established company looking to expand or relocate to this area, or you are aspiring to start a small business, the following resources will guide you in the right direction. Links for startup assistance, financial programs and more are all here in one place - right at your fingertips.

Cedar County Economic Development Commission

Cedar County's own development office can provide assistance if you are looking to start your own local business

Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA)

IEDA offers many financial and technical assistance programs ranging from low-interest, forgivable loans to monetary grants and technical assistance. They also offer information about state-sponsored business start-up programs and have a Targeted Small Business Program for small businesses owned by women or minorities.

East Central Intergovernmental Association (ECIA)

This organization, based in Dubuque, administers a number of business assistance programs that encompass a six-county region, including Cedar County. From Revolving Loan Funds up to $250,000 to SBA 504 Loans and Job Training programs, ECIA is a valuable resource for this part of the state. The regional economic development organization, Prosperity Eastern Iowa is administered through ECIA as well.

USDA Rural Development

The US Department of Agriculture's Rural Development initiative administers many assistance programs intended to foster economic development in rural areas. Tipton is home to this region's USDA Rural Development office and the staff there is eager to work with you to determine what programs can work for you. Rural Development offers guaranteed business loans, rural economic development grants, value-added producer grants, and more.

SCORE-East Central Iowa

SCORE is America's economic development engine, established by the Federal Government in 1964. Its focus: Create, grow, save and assist small business at no cost. SCORE-Eastern Iowa is the local contingent based in Cedar Rapids and is comprised of former CEO's, business owners, and company managers who volunteer their time to assist with small business start ups. SCORE members regularly teach business classes at Kirkwood Community College and can assist with business plans, financing options, marketing strategies and more.

SBDC - Small Business Development Centers

These centers, found throughout Iowa, are committed to entrepreneurial development throughout the state. The SBDC that serves Tipton and Cedar County is located at the University of Iowa.

SBA - US Small Business Administration

The Cedar Rapids branch of SBA is ready to assist you with any of your business start-up questions. Their website is full of helpful information and you can request a free "Business Startup Kit".

ABILITIES FUND

The Abilities Fund is the first nationwide nonprofit communitydeveloper and financial institution focused exclusively on expanding entrepreneurial opportunities, including access to capital, for people with disabilities. We do this by providing a unique combination of financial products, training, technical assistance services and advisory supports to individuals with disabilities.

alliant Energy economic & community development

Learn how Alliant Energy can make your relocation or expansion a success, and why the Alliant Energy service territory may be a good fit for your industry. From marketing assistance to training opportunities, Alliant Energy's team of economic development experts is ready to build partnerships with you.

Learn more about the electricity and natural gas industries and check out our links to helpful online resources. You can also request more information or sign up to receive our community newsletter.

Our team of economic development professionals will work with you every step of the way.

Partners and Business Assistance

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