#IowansUnite Campaign

Dear Friends:

While the past few months have been challenging for many Iowans, especially our small business owners, I’ve been inspired by countless examples of restaurants, retailers and attractions not only adapting to survive, but also daring to dream big.  In support of these incredible efforts, the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) is launching an #IowansUnite campaign to encourage Iowans to support small businesses and to help ensure a strong economic future for Iowa.

Please help us raise awareness by sharing and reposting content, which includes the following:

• A video series that captures the heart, emotion and resiliency of small business owners through their powerful stories. These videos are being promoted through ThisIsIowa.com and IEDA’s Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn profiles. The very first video launched today and can be viewed here.
• A partnership with radio and television stations across Iowa to feature stories of local business owners who will discuss how they’re adapting, keeping customers and employees safe and doing their part to strengthen Iowa’s economy.
• A social media series that showcases a category of small business or attraction, such as local bookstores, with an icon map displaying where to find them in Iowa. These maps are shared across Travel Iowa’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram profiles.
• A video contest in September that invites communities across Iowa to submit creative and inspirational videos showcasing how they’ve supported their local small businesses. The video with the largest number of votes on social media will win custom signage tailored to the city.
• Online options for supporting small businesses:
  • ShopIowa.com, a new e-commerce platform that gives small retailers, particularly those lacking an online presence, a place to showcase their products and businesses.
  • Gift Card Marketplace, an online marketplace to purchase gift cards or vouchers to shops, museums, restaurants and more.

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Small businesses are the backbone of our local economies and IEDA is proud to support them. As you see these initiatives promoted via social media, please engage and share to help spread the word about the many great businesses operating across the state.

Very best regards,

Debi Durham
Executive Director
Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority