Melissa is an exceptional partner in regional economic development. Her ability to coordinate seamlessly with Alliant Energy ensures that Winnebago and Worth counties are always positioned for growth. She is proactive, deeply knowledgeable, and highly collaborative- bringing her into a project early is a guarantee that things will move forward efficiently and successfully.
— Chad Hansen , Alliant Energy
Digital Marketing vs. Traditional Marketing for Rural Economic Development: What Actually Works?
17 Mar 2025
News
The Shift Toward Digital Marketing
For years, rural economic development marketing has relied on traditional methods–brochures, trade shows, networking events, and newspaper ads. These tactics have their place, but they also come with limitations. They’re expensive, time-consuming, and often difficult to measure.
Meanwhile, digital marketing is changing how rural communities attract businesses, investment, and workforce talent. Site selectors and business leaders are no longer waiting for printed materials or trade show meetings to make decisions; they’re doing their research online.
If your community isn’t showing up in those searches, you’re already behind.
More Topics
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Iowa is a program for small businesses that links learning to action. Through the program, participants will gain practical skills in topics such as negotiation, marketing, and employee management that can immediately be put into action. In addition, they will receive the tools and professional...
The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center and North Iowa Area SBDC were proud to announce Billie Asmus of Repaint Studios in Hampton, IA as the February 2025 Entrepreneur of the Month.As the founder and CEO of Repaint Studios, Billie Asmus is revolutionizing the painting and home DIY industry with her...
Why Workforce Readiness Can’t Wait
Mar 17 2025I spent 30 years at Lockheed Martin, 20 of which were in site selection, workforce development, and real estate disciplines, followed by the last 11 years consulting in the tech sector. Site selection has come a long way in the last four decades, driven by increased investment requirements, heightened investor...