Research

Research

Research is an essential function of the Iowa Business Council. Our members compile a global, nonpartisan perspective of the economy which ultimately drives our initiatives. The Council's research provides insight on Iowa's business climate and how the state is competing nationally.  This information serves as a great resource for policymakers, business leaders, and every day Iowans.  Our members utilize this data to identify ways to elevate Iowa's economy and advance the state.  Currently, the Council releases two major pieces of research - the Economic Outlook Survey and Iowa's Competitive Dashboard.  The Economic Outlook Survey has been released quarterly since 2004.  The Iowa's Competitive Dashboard, formerly known as the Iowa Competitiveness Index, started in 2011 and is released annually.

IBC's 2024 Q3 Economic Outlook Survey Released

The Economic Outlook Survey has been completed by IBC members on a quarterly basis since 2004. The report provides insight regarding the projected trends for the state of Iowa, which can be used for business and economic planning. The reported trends have a state-wide impact, especially when considering that IBC companies have a presence in all 99 counties.

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Iowa's Competitive Dashboard 2024

Iowa's Competitive Dashboard is the IBC's annual research report that measures how Iowa is competing nationally.  The dashboard provides an overall ranking for five indicators: economic growth; workforce and education; governance; health and wellness; and demographics and diversity. Each indicator consists of five metrics that are averaged to determine Iowa’s overall performance in that category – competitive, underperforming, or outperforming.

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Proof by the Numbers

The Economic Outlook Survey has been completed by IBC members on a quarterly basis since 2004. The report provides insight regarding the projected trends for the state of Iowa, which can be used for business and economic planning. The reported trends have a state-wide impact, especially when considering that IBC companies have a presence in all 99 counties. To review previous Economic Outlook Surveys, please visit www.iowabusinesscouncil.org/news/eos.