Ames has attracted many high tech companies and start-ups over the last few years, many of which are located in the Iowa State University Research Park. Businesses from around the U.S., and even overseas, have relocated to Story County within the last few years.

The dramatic growth drew the governor and lieutenant governor to speak at the Ames Economic Development Commission celebration this week. And Ames has been touted by numerous magazines lately as one of the best places to do business, get a job, retire, or raise kids, etc. In August, Ames was labeled one of the geekiest cities in the U.S. by Forbes.

Now Business Insider Magazine is including Ames and Story County, Iowa on their list of 20 U.S. markets with the potential to become the next Silicon Valley. Certainly, as more high-tech jobs are established, the more the area becomes attractive to companies in need of a similar workforce base.

http://www.businessinsider.com/here-are-20-american-cities-and-counties-that-could-be-the-next-silicon-valley-2011-10#ixzz1bu0DUl3U

Post by Tabitha Zesch, Relocation Director

From the Ames Business Monthly…

“The South Duff Avenue commercial corridor looks much different than it once did, especially since major flooding took place there in August 2010.

Gone are several familiar landmarks and other businesses that date back, in some instances, more than half a century. In their place are a variety of service and dining establishments, with more to come in the near future, according to local sources…”

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