Edited release
05/09/23
The City of Iowa City has announced that it is in the review phase of awarding American Rescue Plan Act funds for the Inclusive Economic Development Program.
About two years ago, the American Rescue Plan Act was signed into law by President Biden. The City received $18.2 million to help the community address impacts of the pandemic.
The City Council reserved $4 million towards business support for Iowa City-based businesses led by members of underestimated communities. This March, the City requested statements of interest from groups that had ideas for improving support for underestimated business leaders and entrepreneurs.
The City received 30 statements of interest before the May 1st deadline, totaling approximately $22.7 million. The ideas included business incubators, community kitchens, and office buildings to support services like business coaching, mental health services, and marketing.
The City will now internally evaluate the responses prior to making recommendations to the City Council. The review phase is estimated to take about 60 days.