Headquartered in West Des Moines, Hy-Vee grocery stores are one of the largest employers in Iowa / Gazette file photo

Financial perks, educated workforce, quality of life compelling  for business

By Sue Smith

Employers in Iowa cite the state’s central location, convenient transportation, a highly educated workforce and a pro-business state government as to why they do business here.

Iowa businesses enjoy a corporate income tax structure that is business friendly. The state has no sales or use tax on manufacturing machinery and equipment and no personal property tax which applies to inventories of goods, such as raw materials or salable goods.

Iowa law also allows cities and counties to abate local property taxes for improving industrial real estate. Companies involved in research and development can also take advantage of a refundable credit for increasing their research activity.

Resources are available to help people get started in business. The state Business License Information Center can answer business start-up questions. New business resources can steer entrepreneurs on to the path to success. Financial capital may be available to help get your company off the ground.

Iowa business leaders also promote the state’s lifestyle when recruiting new employees. Short commutes, safe cities, plenty of recreational opportunities and good schools make for a great quality of life.

The state is home to a variety of job opportunities, as well. Industries in the biosciences and renewable energy, as well information solutions and financial services are growing throughout the state. Leading employers include retailers such as Hy-Vee, educators (the University of Iowa), manufacturers Deere and Company and Rockwell Collins and finance and insurance companies such as Principal Financial.

Learn more:

• Iowa Business Council
• Iowa Department of Economic Development
• Iowa Entrepreneur Network
• SCORE

Iowa business journals:

• EdgeBusiness Magazine (eastern Iowa)
• Corridor Business Journal (eastern Iowa)
• Des Moines Business Record (central Iowa)
• Central Iowa Business Magazine
• Siouxland Business Journal (northwest Iowa)
• Quad-City Business Journal (southeast Iowa)
• Tri-State Business Times Online (northeast Iowa)

Your turn: Why is Iowa a good place to do business? Add your thoughts below.