Kossuth/Palo Alto County Economic Development Corporation was among the development groups that were honored with the 2019 BEST of Iowa Excellence Award.

Business Expansion and Strategic Trends is a collaboration of local economic development groups working with Iowa’s utilities and the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

The mission is to meet with Iowa companies to identify local economic trends, business needs and opportunities.

The 2019 BEST of Iowa key findings and conclusions identified trend information from more than 800 interviews completed by companies across 66 counties in 165 communities.

BEST of Iowa honors communities that went above and beyond throughout the process.

“This is a great honor to have received this award.” said Maureen Elbert, executive director of the K/PACEDC. “The K/PACEDC staff was extremely excited and honored to be acknowledged for our work. K/PACEDC continues to work for the betterment of our local businesses and industries to build a strong network of professional services to support our local economic activities and growth.”

“This information is extremely valuable to help Iowa’s economy thrive and it couldn’t be done without leadership from local communities in Kossuth and Palo Alto Counties that are taking the initiative to help create local economic opportunities,” said Jed Skogerboe, manager of business and community development with Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative.