Strategic Priorities

Site Development and Preparation

In order to be competitive in attracting industry, Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress prioritizes site development and preparation. We continually work to prepare industrial sites to meet the needs of prospective tenants and growing businesses through development and certification.

A prime example is the Helgerson Flats Industrial Center. The site was certified in March 2019 and includes more than 80 developable acres zoned for industrial use. Helgerson Flats is conveniently contiguous to Ottumwa’s existing industrial park and is suitable for businesses that complement machinery manufacturing, automotive supply chain, food & beverage processing, and warehouse & distribution. Find out more.

Target Industry Recruitment

The Ottumwa Region has a strong manufacturing base. A 2018 study conducted by our team identified several target industries that can complement existing businesses and thrive in the area due to advantages like a central location, strong utility capacity and competitively-priced availabile land.

Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress is focused on assisting with recruitment and expansion efforts these key target industries:

• Food & Beverage Processing
• Automotive Supply Chain     
• Machinery Manufacturing
• Warehouse & Distribution

Talent Attraction

For communities across the country, workforce is one of the biggest challenges to growth. That’s why we’re working proactively to attract talent and increase the available pool of workers across high-demand sectors.

Partners in Progress is part of a regional partnership that aims to recruit workers to southeast Iowa’s 10-county area as well as develop and educate our existing workforce. The collaboration includes economic developers, Indian Hills Community College administration, the Iowa Economic Development Authority, and others who identify this as a recruiting priority.

Business Expansion and Retention

Economic development isn’t just about business and talent attraction. It’s critical to ensure our region’s existing businesses and major employers achieve success and have growth opportunities. Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress aims to strengthen Ottumwa Region businesses. We work with business owners to problem-solve and reduce potential barriers. We also assist business owners with exploring potential expansion or relocation opportunities.

Navigation Assistance for Financing Business Growth

Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress are knowledgeable about business funding opportunities including a variety of local and state incentives available for qualified projects. We assist new entrepreneurs as well as existing businesses with identifying the right financial support for their current and ongoing project needs.

Learn more about the various local, regional and state incentives here.

Quality Programing and Events

Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress executes its programming with special attention to newtorking, business promotion, and top-of-mind services for all investors. Special events bring community and business together in the sharing of joyful and productive activity for a wide range of audiences. So wether its golf, hot air baloons, Christmas lights, shopping, festivals, athletics, or learning experiences, GOPIP is likely engaged in some way.