The State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSCBI) is a $96 million investment in growing Iowa’s small businesses, including startups, manufacturers and businesses owned by veterans and individuals from diverse backgrounds. The funding is available through the U.S. Treasury Department’s SSBCI, a small business aid program that was expanded through the federal American Rescue Plan Act. Continue reading…


City of Altoona Names City Administrator
The City of Altoona is pleased to announce the hiring of City Administrator, Randy Pierce. City Council gave unanimous approval of the employment agreement at the October 3rd council meeting.

New Art Sculpture Installation Underway
As the City of Altoona embarks on a series of major infrastructure improvements, they also are integrating site specific public art into the construction process. During the project for the 1st Avenue North Roundabout creation, Artist Aaron T Stephan is installing his work of art, “Woven Lines.”

Palace Entertainment to Acquire Adventureland
Palace Entertainment, a subsidiary of Parques Reunidos, one of the leading global operators of amusement parks with more than 60 different attractions assets around the world, today announces its acquisition of Adventureland Resort.
Continue reading…
People of Altoona: Meet Kalyn!
Lately, Kalyn Gibson finds herself spending more and more time in Altoona—for business and for fun. Along with her husband Matt, Kalyn owns Forever Home Inspection Iowa, a company that has provided nearly 2,000 home inspections, including many in the Altoona market. (No surprise there. As the city’s population continues to grow, Altoona’s real-estate market is booming.)
Continue reading…
Legacy Bank’s Roots Run Deep in the Altoona Region
Not many businesses can say they’re celebrating their 117th birthday. But Legacy Bank has managed to navigate the changing and often turbulent world of the last century – including not one but two global pandemics – and have continually evolved to meet the needs of the communities they serve.
Continue reading…
What are the 3 types of commercial real estate leases?
When it comes to commercial real estate for lease, the lease itself makes all the difference.
A commercial real estate lease—whether it’s for retail space for lease, office space or other commercial buildings—is a major commitment for tenants and landlords alike, involving significant time and capital. That’s why it’s so important to understand the structure of your lease before signing.
Continue reading…
December 2020 Building Permit Report
In December, the City of Altoona issued 4 commercial and 35 residential building permits representing over 137,308 square feet of new or improved space and over $17.1 million invested.
Continue reading…
Advantages of Doing Business at a Transportation Network
What is the best location for your transportation and logistics business?
Obviously, there are many factors to consider, from the local workforce and property taxes to the locations of your manufacturers and end-users. But the most important factor of all is the location’s proximity to a transportation network. This is why many companies are choosing to relocate their business to Altoona, Iowa.
Continue reading…
October 2020 Building Permit Report
In October, the City of Altoona issued 13 commercial and 27 residential building permits representing over 58,142 square feet of new or improved space and over $7.4 million invested.