An investment in us is an investment in the economy of Washington County, Iowa!

Greetings!! On behalf of the Washington Economic Development Group (WEDG) Board of Directors, I invite you to renew your investment in Washington County’s future through our 2026–2028 Fund Drive. Your ongoing partnership helps WEDG lead in rural innovation, business expansion, and community vitality. If you are new to WEDG, welcome to a network of partners driving visible progress throughout our county.

Over the past three years, WEDG has shown measurable growth by collaborating in business development, workforce advancement, housing, child care, and community support. Together with our board and investors, we’ve strengthened Washington County’s foundation for continued prosperity.

Business Retention and Expansion

WEDG has played a key role in attracting new investment, retaining vital employers, and fostering growth in the region. We marketed and sold industrial lots in the Southwest Business Park, generating over $100,000 in direct sales and $66,000 in annual tax revenue. Working with Debi Durham and the Iowa Economic Development Authority, we helped secure transformational funding, including more than $700,000 in CAT Grants, Destination Iowa Grants, and bridge/road repair projects across Washington County.

We championed the Broadband Intervention Zone designation to expand rural broadband access and supported local providers who secured over $7.6 million in funding. Our support to employers, such as Brava Roof Tile, Premier 1, and Bazooka Farmstar helped them grow, create jobs, and attracting attention from state and federal agencies. In addition, WEDG provided advocacy and grant support for projects improving business infrastructure, energy resilience, and community facilities.

Workforce Development

As liaison to Kirkwood’s 260E job training program, WEDG facilitated over $1.6 million in workforce agreements that support regional employers. We also organize quarterly Workforce Initiative meetings connecting HR leaders, Iowa Workforce Development, and educational partners to align training programs with local needs.

Housing

Through strong partnerships, WEDG helped secure over $500,000 in new grants for housing rehabilitation, down payment assistance, and student-built housing. We achieved milestones such as moving a cottage home into Washington for a local family and supporting multiple affordable and workforce housing projects. Collaborations with the Housing Trust Fund, Habitat for Humanity, and local agencies continue to expand opportunities for housing development.

Child Care

WEDG addresses one of the region’s greatest workforce challenges—child care availability—through co-sponsored appreciation events with ECI and ISU Extension and targeted provider support. We co-launched Creative Sprouts Champions, Inc., a new nonprofit to strengthen local child care infrastructure, and led efforts with Pleasantview, Halcyon House, and other centers toward intergenerational and community-based care models.

Community Support and Advocacy

WEDG is there when our communities need leadership. We assisted businesses after fires and storms, secured insurance recoveries, and helped local governments and residents access disaster relief resources. Our organization hosted economist Dr. Ernie Goss, Women in Leadership panels, and legislative tours to strengthen civic engagement and economic literacy.

Recent accomplishments include creating new trades scholarships for graduating seniors, supporting Washington County’s EMS essential service levy, and promoting Riverside’s community center bond. Major projects, including a $200 million solar development and a $7.94 million USDOT bridge award, demonstrate the tangible returns on local collaboration and advocacy.

These achievements are possible because of the dedication of our investors. Your pledge for 2026–2028 will ensure WEDG continues to lead efforts that strengthen businesses, enhance infrastructure, and create sustainable opportunities for generations to come.

Please review the enclosed pledge form and consider your renewed investment in WEDG. Together, we can continue building a stronger, more resilient Washington County.

Thank you for your leadership, trust, and partnership.

Mary Audia, Executive Director
Washington Economic Development Group

Washington Economic Development Group Investor Drive 2026 - 2028

Investment Levels are the following: Advisory $6000 +, Platinum $5000 - 5999, Gold $3000 - 4999, Silver $2000 - 2999, Bronze $500 - 1999 or other.