IEDA Board approves assistance for three companies

June 20, 2025 (DES MOINES, IA) – Today, the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) Board approved awards for three companies, which will assist in the creation of 316 jobs and result in $161.1 million in new capital investment for the state. These projects are located in Perry and West Des Moines.

JBS Foods to establish operations in Perry

JBS Foods is one of the world’s largest food companies with operations in 15 countries. They process, prepare and package fresh, further-processed and value-added premium protein products under a variety of brands. The company plans to establish a presence in Perry with the construction of a new 150,000-square-foot animal harvest facility to produce sausage. The project represents a capital investment of $137 million and is expected to create 250 jobs, of which 57 are incented at $31.10 per hour. The board awarded the project tax benefits through the High Quality Jobs (HQJ) program. See the full news release.

ITA Group to increase West Des Moines footprint

ITA Group is a global engagement agency that helps businesses to find solutions that result in increased sales, purchases, retention, referrals and alignment. After launching a new, larger headquarters last year, the company plans an additional expansion of just over 15,000 square feet at the same location to support continued growth. The project represents a capital investment of just over $2 million and was awarded tax benefits through the HQJ program. It is expected to create 33 jobs, of which 25 are incented at a qualifying wage of $36.80 per hour.

Merchants Bonding Company to expand office in West Des Moines

Headquartered in West Des Moines, Merchants Bonding Company is a property and casualty mutual insurance company providing fidelity, surety and other liability coverage through independent agencies. The company plans to expand its location by 34,000 square feet and match its current space with both office and conference spaces. The project is expected to create 34 jobs, of which 18 are incented at a qualifying wage of $36.80 per hour. It represents a capital investment of just over $22 million and was awarded tax benefits through the HQJ program.

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Download a spreadsheet with today's HQJ awards: June 2025 Awards.