Ames Regional Economic Alliance

10/21/2026

Today we are with The Ames Foundation for a ribbon cutting to celebrate their new mural in Campustown! Stop by and check it out at 137 Lynn Avenue.

Big thank you to Iowa State University Professor Anna Segner and her students for the collaboration on this project.

Learn more about the Ames Foundation and their Ames Murals: An Open Air Gallery project on their website!

https://amesfoundation.org/ames-murals-an-open-air-gallery/

10/21/2026

The Ames Regional Economic Alliance is partnering with RMH Architects to develop a Guiding Vision for Campustown, identifying opportunities to strengthen the district and shape its future.

We want to hear from you! Students, residents, businesses, property owners and community members are encouraged to complete a short survey and share what they value about Campustown and what they would like to see in the future.

Take the survey and help shape the future of Campustown:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd4iKYyITX7UxU7y962HaqClFJbwidyHpAi1sSvFGtF91IPDA/viewform

10/21/2026

Ames Seed Capital hosted their annual meeting last night at Alluvial Brewing Company, featuring year-end updates and a presentation from Genvax Technologies. Thanks to everyone who came out.

10/21/2026

Join us for the 2026 State of Technology on Wednesday, October 28, sponsored by Saltech Systems!

Technology experts from AREA businesses will be present to discuss current technology, projections for the future, and more.

View the list of panelists and register by visiting our website. The event is one week away, so sign up today!

https://amesalliance.com/upcoming-event/2026-state-of-technology/

10/21/2026

As we prepare for our Building Community Breakfast tomorrow, we first want to thank our sponsors who make this event happen! Thank you sponsors for all that you do. See you tomorrow morning!

City of Ames - City Government
McFarland Clinic
Story County, Iowa
ITC
Kingland
ACI Mechanical

10/21/2026

This morning at the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, we held a special edition of 1 Million Cups Ames.

Four Story County business finalists presented live in hopes of winning a share of $11,000 from the Daryle Vegge Small Business and Entrepreneurship Grant from the Story County Community Foundation.

Congratulations to the grant recipients!

$5,000 - Berry Patch Farm
$3,000 - Farm Story Meats
$1,500 - Tuneful Journey
$1,500 - Collins Corner Market

You can watch all of the presentations on the 1 Million Cups page. https://www.facebook.com/1MCAmes/

10/21/2026

Last night we held an Ambassador Social to thank the team of community members who consistently show up and support our organization. We had a great time connecting with one another and ending our day at Welch Ave Station! Big thank you to our event sponsors, Jason Jennings Real Estate - Friedrich Realty & Lenny the Payroll Guy.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Ambassador program, visit our website or contact Morganne Dennis at [email protected].

10/21/2026

AREA Young Professionals are getting ready to hear Carey Lohrenz at our annual luncheon event on December 1. As a former U.S. Navy fighter pilot and the Navy’s first female F-14 Tomcat pilot, Carey will talk about leadership, perseverance, and performing under pressure.

Registration for this event is open to the public so sign up today!
https://amesalliance.com/upcoming-event/2026-ames-regional-economic-alliance-annual-luncheon/

Save the Date for the first book club meeting of Fearless Leadership by Carey Lohrenz on Friday, October 16th from 7:30-8:30am at Labryinth Coffee. During this gathering we’ll discuss the beginning of the book through Chapter 4.

We are excited to read this book before Carey Lohrenz speaks at the upcoming Alliance Luncheon on December 1st! Join us for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance Annual Luncheon to celebrate the end of 2026, featuring renowned keynote speaker Carey Lohrenz! A former U.S. Navy fighter pilot and the Navy’s first female F-14 Tomcat pilot, Carey will share powerful insights on leadership, perseverance, and performing under pressure, inspiring attendees to turn challenges into opportunities and lead with confidence.

Read more and register here – https://amesalliance.com/upcoming-event/2026-ames-regional-economic-alliance-annual-luncheon/

We encourage you to pick up a copy today at Dog-Eared Books Ames in Downtown Ames! They will have several copies available for AREA YP members to purchase.

10/20/2026

Today we are with Whip Delight for a ribbon cutting to celebrate them joining the Ames Regional Economic Alliance!

Whip Delight is committed to creating delicious, memorable treats and a welcoming experience for customers to enjoy. As a local business, Whip Delight brings people together through its sweet offerings and dedication to serving the community.

Learn more by visiting their website today!

https://www.whipdelight.com

10/20/2026

Today we are with Ames Noon Kiwanis for a ribbon cutting to celebrate their new mural in Downtown Ames!

The mural is a community-driven project sponsored by Ames Noon Kiwanis, featuring approximately 600 painted aluminum tiles that come together to create one larger design. With community members painting many of the tiles, the project celebrates creativity, connection and community pride.

The mural is located at 238 Main Street on the west side of the Quilting Connection building. Learn more about the project online.

https://k00968.site.kiwanis.org/