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Iowa puts economic efforts into aiding existing businesses

The downturn has state, regional and local leaders trying harder to help existing Iowa businesses.

It’s natural for states and communities to try to recruit new companies – new plants, new jobs and new investment – when the economy is robust, said Diane Ramsey, who leads Alliant Energy’s economic development initiatives.

"It’s sexier. It’s attention-getting to talk about the new fish that someone has landed, as opposed to celebrating the businesses that are here," said Ramsey. "But we cannot afford to take any existing business for granted today."

State leaders and utilities want economic development groups statewide to adopt a program called Syncronist. It has local leaders running through a list of questions annually with companies that officials say will better identify business challenges and opportunities, such as connecting suppliers with manufacturers.

"We’re trying to figure out how we serve existing companies in Iowa better – from managing growth to the risks they face," Tramontina said.

By DONNELLE ELLER • [email protected]

Full Story: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20081228/BUSINESS/812280324/1001/NEWS

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