Why the Food Technology Industry is Growing in Greater Des Moines
It’s no secret that agriculture is at the heart of Iowa. The state leads the nation in producing eggs, corn and red meat (including pork) and ranks second in soybean production and food processing (USDA, 2023). It is also home to 29 of the largest 100 food manufacturers and processors (Food Processing Magazine, 2022).
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As the state’s largest population hub and home to its capital city, Greater Des Moines (DSM) is centrally located in the state and nation. The region is at the crossroads of Interstates 80 and 35 and is part of the USMCA corridor.
DSM not only leads in agriculture, the region is on the forefront of the future. CBRE named DSM as a top 25 up-and-coming tech market in 2023. The region’s focus on innovation and its position as a longstanding leader in agriculture supports the success of food technology and processing companies. Both established and newcomers can tap into the region’s resources and advantages and find success. Mrs. Clark’s, for example, has a 90-year history in the region and recently expanded its Ankeny plant by 60,000 square feet, which brought a new shipping dock, 10,000 square feet of refrigerated space, and an additional break room for its growing staff. Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce started with a family recipe that CEO Taufeek Shah brought to local DSM farmers’ markets and is now has a line of products in 14,000 retailers and restaurants across North America, the Philippines, and the Virgin Islands.
Why DSM
DSM has distinct advantages for businesses looking to grow. The region boasts a favorable business climate, strong public-private partnerships, an engaged workforce and vibrant character of life. Its recent accolades and rankings include:
- #6 Best Place to Live for Families — U.S. News & World Report, 2023
- Top 10 Fastest-Growing Mid-Sized Metro — Site Selection Group, 2023
- #9 Top Metro for Number Economic Development Projects (among metros with a population of 200,000 to 1 million) — Site Selection Magazine, 2023
- #2 Place for Young Professionals to Live – Forbes, 2024
What the Greater Des Moines Partnership Can Do for You
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the region’s economic and community development organization, serving 11 counties with a population of 858,664 (U.S. Census). The Partnership serves as a single point of contact for businesses looking to learn about the region. The team can provide comprehensive demographic and business climate information, tailored to your specific needs. Working with The Partnership also provides access to site selection and site visit support, finance and incentive program guidance and connections to local and state government officials and other leaders within the region.
Build Your Greater Here
DSM provides opportunities to do something greater. Reach out to Sid Juwarker, Vice President of Economic Development, to get connected and learn more about doing business in DSM.
Sid Juwarker | Vice President of Economic Development
sjuwarker@dsmpartnership.com | (515) 286-4964