Washington Economic Development Group

06/19/2026

At WEDG, we love seeing community members help guide the future of the places they call home. Do you have ideas for Kalona's future? Here's your chance to share them! Trees Forever will be at Kalona Days, gathering input on future parks, trails, sidewalks, and community spaces. Stop by, meet the planning team, and help shape how the community looks, feels, and works!

06/18/2026

Happening today! Need a reason to get out of the office a little early? Come check out the Home Rehabilitation Open House at 320 North Avenue C in Washington.

This project highlights the power of partnership between Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity, WEDG, and many other local partners to expand housing opportunities in Washington County. Housing remains one of the biggest challenges for our workforce, and projects like this are part of the solution.

Stop by, tour the home, and meet some of the people behind the project! Then, get involved. See you this afternoon!

06/16/2026

🚨 Technology is creating new opportunities, and this is a great chance to learn more! Join experts from CIRAS on June 25 in Cedar Rapids to explore practical solutions. You will hear real-world examples that you can bring back to your business. Registration is required: https://events.blackthorn.io/00D6g0000082hT4EAI/share/events/how-to-solve-workforce-and-cost-challenges-with-technology-4a4wQrrd01

06/15/2026

A strong workforce starts with healthy people. Cancer touches families, workplaces, and communities across Washington County. As we work to support a strong workforce and great quality of life, understanding the health challenges facing our county matters. This presentation on June 29 from Washington County Public Health and its partners will share local cancer trends, statistics, and risk factors affecting our community. We encourage residents, employers, and community leaders to attend and learn more.

06/12/2026

Iowa is the first state in the nation to open applications for the new Workforce Pell Grant program, helping people access short-term training for high-demand careers and skilled trades.

WEDG has been proud to support the next generation of skilled workers through our Educational Grants, which provide scholarships to students pursuing careers in skilled trades. More opportunities for workers and a stronger talent pipeline for employers is good for communities throughout our state.

Iowans need to meet financial-need requirements to qualify. The grant will pay for non-degree training programs that are between 8 and 15 weeks.

06/10/2026

You're invited! Join us on June 18 for an OPEN HOUSE at 320 N. Ave C in Washington, and see what can happen when the community comes together to solve housing challenges.

Stop by between 4:30 and 6:30 PM to tour the home, meet the team behind the project, and learn more about the impact of community partnerships!

06/04/2026

If you know Washington County, you know the County Fair is a pretty big deal. For one week every summer, our communities come together in a way that's hard to replicate anywhere else. Community development is about investing in the things that make people want to live here and stay connected here, and the fair is one of those things.

We'll see you at the fairgrounds!

06/02/2026

Today is a reminder that our communities are filled with people who care about where they live. WEDG is celebrating every candidate who has stepped up to serve, the volunteers and election officials who make the process possible, and the citizens who take an active role in shaping the future of their communities. Thank you for your commitment to Washington County!

06/02/2026

Our favorite part? Watching Kalona shine! Busy sidewalks and families making memories together...Kalona Days is a great example of how community pride fuels economic vitality!