Grafton shows their support for Iowa Veterans by becoming an HBI Community
27 Feb 2026
News, Blog
The city of Grafton has joined more than 125 other Iowa entities who have chosen to show their support for Iowa Veterans by becoming an HBI community. Home Base Iowa is a one-of-kind program designed to connect veterans and service members with more than 2,300 businesses statewide who have pledged to hire veterans.
Home Base Iowa designates qualified communities as centers of opportunity for military veterans based on four standards:
Within a designated community, at least 10% of eligible, hiring businesses must become a HBI business and pledge to hire veterans
Community specific incentive package
Community signs of HBI designation
Resolution from the appropriate governing body
Melissa Michaelis, Executive Director of Winn-Worth Betco made it her mission to complete what her predecessor had started over a decade ago. In November of 2022, Michaelis worked with both Winnebago and Worth County in their own county HBI designation. At the same time, Michaelis partnered with the cities of Northwood and Forest City to kick off the start of obtaining the designation for each of the 14 communities Michaelis serves within both Winnebago and Worth counties. Each county incentive package includes $1000 in relocation assistance to veterans moving to either county. Winn-Worth Betco has budgeted to assist with up to six veterans per year to choose either county as their home.
The City of Grafton has officially been awarded the designation of a Home Base Iowa Community on Thursday, February 19th, 2026 offering the waiver of a building permit and a one-year membership to the Athletic Club.
Picture Front Row: Philip Hackbart, Citizen of Worth County Melissa Michaelis, Executive Director, Winn-Worth Betco Renee Peterson, City Clerk
Picture Back Row: Tom Reid, Director of Veterans Affairs, Worth County Adam Blanchard, Veteran Career Planner, Iowa Workforce Development Gregg Urbatsch, Mayor Paul Andres, Local Veteran Employment Representative, Iowa Workforce Development Not pictured, AJ Stone, Worth County Supervisor (photographer)
“It will be a great accomplishment to see all 14 of the communities I serve obtain this designation,” said Michaelis.
By Melissa Michaelis, Executive Director Winn-Worth Betco
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The partnership with Winn-Worth Betco has flourished over the years. Melissa's camaraderie, knowledge, and willingness to share ideas and support other areas have significantly strengthened this collaboration. Winn-Worth Betco has been instrumental in our region’s success. Their proactive approach to business development and their extensive network of industry contacts have opened doors we never thought possible within the region. We are grateful for their partnership and look forward to continued collaboration.
— Jill Kramer, Hancock County Economic Development
Our partnership with Winn-Worth Betco has been incredibly beneficial. Their expertise and dedication to supporting local businesses have helped us navigate challenges and seize new opportunities throughout the region. I highly recommend Winn-Worth Betco’s services for any company looking to grow and expand in this region.
— Mary Ambsbaugh, Franklin County Economic Development Association
I have had the pleasure of working with Melissa Michaelis, Director of Winn-Worth Betco for almost two years now. She is an extremely dedicated, hard-working, highly organized, and passionate advocate for the community. She continues to ensure that the community continues to grow and thrive. Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious!
— Sara Cook, Business Engagement Consultant, Iowa Workforce Development
