Greater Dubuque Wins Prestigious Award for Their Childcare Solutions Initiative

The Greater Dubuque Development Corporation (GDDC) has been recognized for its exceptional work in economic development, earning the 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). This award acknowledges GDDC’s achievements in the Public-Private Partnership category, focusing on communities with populations between 25,000 and 200,000 residents. The award will be presented during the IEDC 2024 Annual Conference in Denver, Colorado, from September 15th to the 18th.

The recognition highlights GDDC’s Dubuque County Child Care Solutions initiative, developed in collaboration with Dubuque Initiatives. This project addresses the pressing issue of childcare availability in the community by uniting private businesses, public funding, childcare providers, and non-profit organizations. By leveraging resources from multiple sectors, the initiative aims to provide comprehensive solutions that benefit working families and support economic stability and growth in the region.

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The Dubuque County Child Care Solutions projects key accomplishments include establishing the Bright Minds Campus, which added 120 childcare slots with potential expansion to 225. The project also launched the Dubuque County Childcare Solutions Fund, securing $2.7 million in state funding and $5 million in private investment to support childcare workforce recruitment and retention. The initiative has brought together multiple partners, including the Dubuque Y, Dubuque Community Schools, local businesses, and the John Deere Foundation, showcasing strong public-private collaboration.

This project has significantly impacted Dubuque County's economy by enabling more parents, to join or return to the workforce, thus boosting productivity. By adding hundreds of new childcare slots and supporting the hiring of childcare professionals, the initiative has improved employee retention for local businesses and enhanced the quality of life for families. The innovative use of public-private partnerships, state matching funds, and repurposing existing infrastructure at Bright Minds Campus serves as a replicable model for other communities facing similar challenges. The project also addressed obstacles such as funding challenges and workforce shortages through strategic planning and community engagement, making it a valuable community asset and a model of sustainable economic development.

GDDC’s work in this area demonstrates a commitment to addressing local challenges with innovative and sustainable approaches. Their efforts not only help solve immediate community needs but also contribute to long-term economic development and quality of life improvements. This award underscores the effectiveness of their strategy and the positive impact of their initiatives on the Greater Dubuque region.

Since its founding in 1984, GDDC has been dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality of the area through various programs and initiatives, including business retention and expansion, workforce development, and strategic partnerships. Their mission is to ensure that the Greater Dubuque region remains a thriving place for businesses and families alike.

The International Economic Development Council, the largest organization of its kind, honors entities that demonstrate outstanding performance in the field of economic development. With over 4,300 members worldwide, IEDC supports economic developers in their efforts to create jobs, promote economic growth, and improve quality of life in their communities.

This award highlights GDDC’s leadership in fostering collaboration and innovation to address community needs, reinforcing its role as a key community player in shaping the future of Dubuque and it's surrounding areas.