(DES MOINES) – The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) and Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) today announced the newly designated 2026 Iowa Thriving Communities: Clear Lake, Ottumwa, Sioux Center, Urbandale and Waukon.
“Housing is the foundation of upward economic opportunity, and when all Iowans have access to affordable homes, families, communities and businesses can truly thrive,” said IEDA|IFA Director Debi Durham.
These communities have stepped up as leaders in creating housing opportunities for all income levels.
Now in its third year, the Iowa Thriving Communities initiative recognizes forward-thinking communities that are proactively addressing workforce housing needs. Designated communities complete a highly competitive application process, including a live pitch from teams of local partners to a panel from IEDA and IFA.
Selected communities demonstrate best practices in planning, financial support, targeted development, leadership and employer engagement. They also invest in broader community assets like public health and the arts. Communities previously recognized through the initiative are already seeing strong results, with increased developer interest and significant public and private investments in housing.
In addition to valuable scoring advantages for the Federal Housing Tax Credit and Workforce Housing Tax Credits, HOME and Community Catalyst programs (effective through 2026), designated communities will gain statewide and national visibility as models for successful housing strategies.
“This recognition affirms the power of our partnerships and the momentum behind Mission 500, our goal to develop 500 homes by 2030,” said Ottumwa Mayor Rick Johnson. “We’re especially grateful to our employers who’ve championed housing as vital to workforce growth. This designation gives us a platform to share our story and build on our progress.”
The 2026 Iowa Thriving Communities will be recognized at the HousingIowa Conference in Cedar Rapids, Sept. 2–4. A free Iowa Thriving Communities Reception will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 2. Learn more at housingiowaconference.com and iowafinance.com.
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