HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-30-2015 Council Economic Development CommitteeAGENDA
City Council Economic Development Committee
Monday, March 30, 2015
12:00 p.m.
City Manager's Conference Room
City Hall
1. Call to Order
2. Consider approval of minutes from the January 12, 2015
Economic Development Committee meeting
3. FY15 Budget Line items report: Economic Development
Assistance
4. Consider a request from EDC for annual assistance of $25,000
5. Consider a request to underwrite Entrefest Sponsorship of
$10,000
6. Staff updates
a. Telepharm parking incentive
7. Committee time
8. Other business
9. Adjournment
EDC January 12, 2015 P. 1
PRELMNARY
MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
JANUARY 12, 2015
CITY MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL, 12:00 P.M.
Members Present: Susan Mims, Michelle Payne, Matt Hayek
Staff Present: Wendy Ford, Jeff Davidson, Geoff Fruin, Tom Markus, Doug
Boothroy, Tracy Hightshoe
Others Present: Bruce Kinseth, Nancy Quellhorst (Chamber), Ben Kinseth, Kevin
Digmann, John Hieronymus, Charlie Graves, Joe ClarkTom
Jackson (via phone)
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
Payne moved to recommend approval of the request from Kinseth Hospitality
Company for $8.8 million in TIF financing to the full City Council.
Hayek seconded the motion.
The motion carried 3-0.
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Mims at 11:59 A.M. She first asked
that those present identify themselves.
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Minutes of the December 8, 2014, were reviewed.
Payne moved to approve the minutes as amended.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3-0.
Jeff Davidson introduced a proposal from Kinseth Hospitality Company for financial
assistance from the City. The project is a full service 12-story Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
with 144 rooms at 328 S. Clinton Street. Davidson noted the architectural image as a
design concept for the property. The actual design has not yet been decided, but
Davidson noted that it is consistent with the form based code in the Riverfront Crossings'
district.
The proposed project costs are near $33 million and a financial analysis completed by
NDC confirms an $8.8 million gap in financing. Staff proposes an innovative three -fold
package for funding the gap. The gap funding package includes $4.8 million that would
be generated in tax increment financing rebates from the hotel itself, plus an estimated
$2.5 million in 50% tax increment rebates generated from the adjacent property planned
EDC January 12, 2015 p. 2
PRELIMINARY
for the University of Iowa Art Museum with ancillary taxable components. The third
piece would be a rebate of 50% of the hotel/motel taxes generated by the new hotel. All
three funding sources would be used until the total rebates reached $8.8 million.
Parking for the hotel would be accommodated in the Court Street Transportation Center,
where there would be a skywalk connection from the back of the hotel to the parking
deck. Davidson stated that current annual property tax revenues for this parcel are
approximately $11,000 and that the projected annual property taxes will be
approximately $580,000. The TIF increment generated would be approximately
$400,000 from the hotel and would be the primary source of funds for gap financing.
Davidson noted the project meets three of the Council's priorities: a) to create a strong
urban core, b) to engage in strategic economic activities, and c) to establish a solid
financial foundation. He then elaborated on the benefits of the project and how it meets
goals set forth by the Council in their strategic planning.
To summarize, Davidson noted that the proposal is for $8.8 million in financial
assistance on a $33 million project for a Hilton Garden Inn Hotel. This will be a 144-
room hotel that meets the form based code standards of Riverfront Crossings. There
will be 150 jobs created, including 81 full-time and 69 part-time. With the University's
projects in the immediate area, Davidson suggested this will be a good fit for the site.
Payne stated that she would like to better understand the use of the TIF increment from
the adjacent property. Davidson stated a portion of the new UI Art Museum project is
likely to be taxable and that the motivation to use increment generated by that parcel
(also owned by the same developer) is to reduce the timeframe to reach the $8.8 million
total. Digmann noted that the museum will enter into a long-term lease, and how much
tax the project will generate is still unknown at this point. Davidson added that if nothing
were to happen on the Art Museum site, the City would bear no additional risk, but it
would take longer to reach the total.
Hayek asked about the implications of committing TIF from the Art Museum parcel and
whether it would preclude providing assistance for it or any other development on the lot.
Davidson responded that the proposal is for 50% of the increment, leaving the remaining
50% available for other projects. Hayek also asked about hotel/motel tax, and Davidson
noted that it is also for just 50% of the hotel tax generated from the project only. He
noted that the remaining 50% of this tax, however, would be distributed to the CVB,
Police, and Parks in the same formula that all Iowa City hotel taxes are. Staff noted that
the CVB is aware of and agreeable to this arrangement.
Mims then asked about Kinseth's prior developments, noting the list in their packet. She
asked if they have received TIF or other financing from these entities. Bruce Kinseth
responded that in Bettendorr they are currently building a Hilton Garden Inn and have a
package with the City of Bettendorf. In Mason City they also have a project for which
they are receiving public financial assistance, adding there are other projects with public
financing in other cities. Mims asked how the others compare, percentage -wise and Mr.
Kinseth stated that most are smaller, because they are also for smaller, five -story hotels.
Payne asked why another potential hotel project for downtown is likely not going to
request any financial assistance and what the difference is. Davidson stated that the
major difference is between the scale of the projects. Another is the access to financial
partnerships afforded to the two national scale student -housing developers. Markus
EDC January 12, 2015 p. 3
PRELIMINARY
added that another difference is that one is a publicly owned site and two are privately
owned sites, also a factor in the equation.
Digmann noted that the $8.8 million amount is more equivalent to $6 million in net
present value due to the time value of money.
Hayek said his questions are about the exploitation of the possibilities of the adjacent
site, and the diversion of the hotel/motel tax. He added that he wanted to make sure
that the CVB was okay with this arrangement. Members continued to discuss the
proposed request and the details of the agreement. Mims asked if the City shouldn't put
a time limit on how long they would use the increment from the adjacent property. She
added that if development does not occur, neither does an increment, and she
questioned how long the City would want to extend this period. Davidson stated that as
proposed right now, the dollar figure to fill the gap is $8.8 million and that increment can
be attained from the hotel alone over a longer period, or, if other parcels owned by the
developer are included and developed, a shorter period of time. Members noted this
and continued to discuss concern over how long the TIF period would run if the Art
Museum project does not occur in a timely fashion. Hayek asked why they should
restrict themselves to 50% of the hotel/motel tax. He suggested they leave some
flexibility in case the museum project does not proceed as hoped.
Payne moved to recommend approval of the request from Kinseth Hospitality
Company for $8.8 million in TIF financing to the full City Council.
Hayek seconded the motion.
The motion carried 3-0.
Davidson noted that Charlie Graves and Joe Clark are present for this proposal, a $40
million multi-family/student housing project at 316 Madison Street. He shared an image
of the proposed 15-story building on a lot that was formerly a car repair business.
Davidson commented that the higher level amenities in this building are intended to
attract the young professional and student market seeking higher quality housing. He
said the developer is on a very tight schedule to be ready for fall 2016 occupancy. They
would like to `move dirt" in February, if everything goes through as planned.
Davidson stated that Members should be familiar with this project because Council
recently considered the height bonus provisions. Five additional stories were granted for
being a quality student housing building, and two were granted more for environmental
design equivalence to LEER gold.
Davidson stated that the developers have indicated that without financial assistance they
will be unable to continue, as this is to be a steel frame, 100+ year building. He added
that this has been verified through the financial analysis, which shows a gap of $4.45
million on the project. Without financial assistance for the larger project, the developer
has stated they would construct a five -story building here instead. Davidson then shared
a financial model that Ford created, further explaining the project's financial aspects and
the difference between future property taxes generated by a 15 story vs. a 5 story
EDC January 12, 2015 p. 4
PRELIMINARY
building. The current property tax generation on this site is about $7,000. Property
taxes generated by a 5 story building would be around $100,000. The 15-story building
would generate upwards of $500,000 per year. He then explained the financial package
that staff and the developer have worked on.
Davidson explained the unique concept, stating that the developers would agree to a
partial TIF rebate. In the arrangement, the amount of property taxes generated by a
typical 5 story student housing project would flow straight to the City, County and
Schools, along with the protected debt levy that is captured on any TIF project. The
difference between the full taxes on the 15 story building, less those generated by a
typical 5 story building, less the protected debt levy that flows to the taxing entities,
would be rebated to the developer.
After continued discussion about the partial rebate, the focus of the discussion became
the question of should we ultimately limit the City to the property tax generated by a five -
story building with no assistance, or with the proposed financial assistance, gain a much
larger building with a much larger increase in property tax revenue. Payne noted that
use of the chart was extremely helpful in understanding this proposal. Davidson then
returned to the project details, noting that it is slated to be 154 furnished apartments,
consisting of 53 studios, 16 one -bedrooms, 77 two -bedrooms, and eight three -bedroom
units. Some of the additional amenities, according to Davidson, will include an outdoor
rooftop patio, a sun deck, a large lobby that will be staffed 24/7, study lounges, computer
labs, and a movie/gaming room. Developers will achieve the equivalent of LEED gold
status on this project. With regards to the Council's strategic plan, Davidson stated that
healthy neighborhoods, strong urban core, and solid financial foundation goals are all
met with this project. He added that the projected property tax revenue is around
$400,000 in year one, compared to the $7,000 currently. Finally, Davidson noted the
developer equity of $10.6 million, bank loans of $25 million, and then the TIF request of
$4.45 million.
Davidson stated that one thing that has occurred since staff began developing this
proposal is the discussion last week by Council on affordable housing. He noted that in
developing this project proposal, there was no mention of affordable housing. Davidson
further explained why, adding that they have since engaged the developer in discussions
about affordable housing. At this point he turned the conversation over to Joe Clark.
Clark stated that due to the discussion regarding affordable housing, the developers
have decided to be proactive and have included five units meeting affordability
requirements in the project. Five units are set up to meet the requirements of affordable
housing; however, to meet the Council's discussed 10%, they would have to come up
with 11 more units in this project. Clark stated that what they are proposing is paying a
fee in lieu of providing those 11 units. This fee could then be used in a housing trust
fund to help support affordable housing in another area of downtown, for example.
Members briefly discussed how this fee could be set aside for units elsewhere.
Members then discussed this project and other projects in the downtown area, and the
financial requests they are making. The height cost differences, as well as steel versus
wood construction, were mentioned as major factors in cost and longevity. Land costs
were also noted, with Davidson stating that staff has been paying attention to this in the
Riverfront Crossings' area is consistent with this. Members continued to ask questions
of Davidson regarding this project. Mims asked if there is some stipulation in these
agreements regarding LEED certifications and whether or not the developers are
EDC January 12, 2015 p. 5
PRELIMINARY
actually achieving the certification. She questioned how this could potentially be tied to
any of the TIF money. Dilkes stated this is negotiated in each agreement. Markus
added that there are other reviews that can be conducted, but that there would need to
be a verifiable way to certify the various levels.
Hayek noted that he will support the request, but that he does so reluctantly. He stated
that it has to do with the type of project — student housing — that gives him hesitation. He
added that one way to justify this, however, is in what they are trying to achieve in the
Riverfront Crossings' area and in lessening the pressure on other neighborhoods with
student housing. Payne stated that she struggled with this request, as well, but that the
difference between a five -story and a 12-story building makes sense. Clark responded
to Member concerns, noting that you can only raise the rents so high before people stop
coming to your building. He then pointed out that they have actually reduced the amount
of rebate they are requesting.
Payne moved to approve the request from 316 Madison, LLC, for $4.45 million in
TIF financing, as a recommendation to the full City Council.
Hayek seconded the motion.
The motion carried 3-0.
STAFF UPDATES:
None.
COMMITTEE TIME:
None.
OTHER BUSINESS:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Payne moved to adjourn the meeting at 1:02 P.M.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3-0.
EDC January 12, 2015 p. 6
PRELIMINARY
Council Economic Development Committee
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2014 - 2015
TERM
o
0
0
o
NAME
EXP.
a
w
n�
J
j
�
A
A
A
A
A
Cn
Michelle
01/02/16
X
X
X
X
X
X
Payne
Matt
01/02/16
X
X
X
X
X
X
Hayek
Susan
01102/16
X
X
X
X
X
X
Mims
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
I r i
dnl�r �
CITY OF IOVdA CITY
UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE
CITY OF IOWA CITY
IVIEM0RANDUM
Date: March 26, 2015
To: City Council Economic Development Committee
From: Wendy Ford, Economic Development Coordinator
Re: Agenda item #3 — Budget Line items report
Introduction
There are two line items in the Economic Development Division's budget we like to review with
you periodically — the Community Development Assistance line and the Economic Development
Assistance line.
History
The Community Development Assistance line is budgeted each year with expenses that have
been approved in prior fiscal years and again when the budget is ratified. You will note that we
have expended the full appropriation of $393,581 for FY15 and that the budget for FY16 is set
for $411,800.
The Economic Development Assistance line, sometimes referred to as the Economic
Development Opportunity fund, has been funded with $100,000 per year for the last several
years. It is typically used for economic development opportunities that arise during the fiscal
year, which in FY15, have included expenses for the Building Change Fagade Improvement
program, incentives for the relocation of MetaCommunications downtown, a portion of the
expenses for the recently completed Targeted Retail Study and other economic development
opportunities.
The City Manager was granted administrative authority to make disbursements up to $50,000
from the Economic Development Assistance funds in 2011 (resolution 11-66). Common practice
has been to run requests for these funds through the Economic Development Committee for
approval. Should the City Manager exercise administrative authority to approve disbursements
from the fund, the protocol is to report on those expenses at the proceeding Economic
Development Committee meeting.
Discussion
You will note that the fund balance in the FY15 Economic Development Assistance line is
$132,866. It is from this balance that the two recommendations before you today totaling
$16,250, could be funded.
It is also worth noting that we expect to receive requests for around $92,000 from four more
proposals yet this fiscal year.
If you have any questions about this report, please feel free to contact me.
Economic Development Funds
updated 3/25/2015
2015 YTD
2016 Budget
2017
Projected
Funding Source
Budget
J=al
4480 Commuplity evolbpmant Assistance.
$35k5881 $393 561�,.gAO
4
Budget Amendment
$35,000
Englert Civic Theatre
$70,000
$70,0001
$70,000
la City/Coralville CVB (hotel/motel taxes 1 Qtr of 4)
$208,581
$75,586
$241,762
Iowa City UNESCO City of Lit+ book festival
$60,000
$60,000
$60,000
Riverside Theatre, 3rd of 3 yrs in '15
$20,000
$20,000
Film Scene
$35,000
$35,000
$25,000
$15,000
Food Enterprise Center feasibility study
$7,500
FYTota1
$260,586
$404,262
FY Budget Re_mcinder
$132,995
$7,538
less remaining CVB funding
$132,995
unspent
$0
A`0
ECQtttt)`liiCllBvpiaplrient7�Stt�e
CarryOver from year prior
$?00,�1 � $192,�
$
$92,826
Mission Creek Festival, 2014
$12,500
carried over to FY25
Yacht club/!TK holdings (Building Change)
$12,930
$5,699
carried over to FY25
Busy Coworking, remaining funding to request
$1,296,
accrued to FY14
MetaCommunications buildout
$58,000'i
carried over to FY25
MetaCommunications parking agreement
$31,680,
$30,096
$30,096
$30,096
carried over to FY15
/CDD Targeted Retail consultant, per City Manager
$10,000.
$10,000
Expo Cad software; Summer of the Arts
$1,665
FYTotaIspent
$59,960
$30,096
FY Budget Remainder
FY end requested carryover
$132,866
$69,904
unspent
$132,866
$69,904
S:\PCD\ECODEV\Economic Development Assistance actual v budget history (3).xlsx
^r �
�i
CITY OF IOWA CITY
UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE
CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: March 26, 2015
To: Economic Development Committee
From: Wendy Ford, Economic Development Coordinator
Re: Agenda item #4 - Request from EDC for annual funding
Introduction:
The Entrepreneurial Development Center, Inc., widely known as EDC was founded 11 years
ago by Curt Nelson. Their mission is to improve the economic vitality of the region through the
creation and growth of high -impact, scalable entrepreneurial business. While they are based in
Cedar Rapids, they serve businesses on both ends of the Creative Corridor and list the CoLab
in Riverfront Crossings as their Iowa City office. They are requesting public support from the
City of Iowa City in the amount of $25,000 annually.
History/Background:
The EDC's function is to connect entrepreneurs with the full range of business expertise to
enable high potential businesses to grow and thrive. Nelson has developed a recipe for
business success (and has written a book by the same name) that EDC uses in guiding
business growth. In the recipe, there are 6 ingredients: marketing, development, sales,
operations, information technology and finance. EDC's approach is to ensure that clients have
the right amount of each ingredient. In their work with clients, they gain an understanding of the
needs and then provide the expertise or find it by building strategic networks for their clients.
They are also well connected to financial resources for their clients.
Discussion:
EDC first approached the City of Iowa City in 2007 with a request for $15,000. At that time, the
City Council Economic Development Committee voted to defer support and to re-examine the
request later in 2008, pending more information. In 2009, the committee received a $20,000
request from EDC, but voted to table the consideration until they could learn if a newly
established, small funding commitment from ICAD was working as planned.
In the ensuing five -plus years, EDC has continued to provide services to an ever-growing
entrepreneurial community. [CAD has maintained and increased their funding of EDC and Mark
Nolte confirms that EDC is doing a lot more work in our area and that they have offered solid
guidance to some up and coming Iowa City businesses. One of their clients, Pear Deck, an
Iowa City -based education software company was just awarded a $150,000 prize in the "Rise of
the Rest" pitch competition at SXSW (South by South West) in Austin, TX last week.
The City of Cedar Rapids has maintained its funding of $100,000 annually, the City of North
Liberty is investing $5,000 per year, Hiawatha is providing $11,500 annually, and the U of I and
the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center are committed to $20,000 each, per year.
Additionally, the UI Vice President for Research Office engages EDC on a case by case basis
March 26, 2015
Page 2
for specific work. EDC staff has indicated that the City of Coralville will be a new funder this
year, but they have not yet committed to a specific amount.
Entrepreneurship continues to grow in the U.S. and cities that welcome entrepreneurs stand to
gain new employers, new employees and the economic benefits they bring. Iowa City has spent
the last several years building a community that fosters entrepreneurs. We assisted in getting
the CoLab off the ground and that has proven to have incubated some very successful highly
scalable companies. We have provided a number of small entrepreneurs low -to -no interest
loans; we have sponsored Entrefest, the Iowa City -based convention geared to the
entrepreneurial community, and we are in the early stages of securing new space for the CoLab
in the Court Linn development.
It is clear that it takes a lot of effort from a lot of organizations -- ICAD, the UI Small Business
Development Center, the City, the Chamber — and organizations such as EDC, Inc. to provide
the support necessary to a burgeoning entrepreneurial community.
Recommendation:
Because there is one quarter of the City's 2015 fiscal year remaining, staff recommends funding
one quarter of the requested amount, or $6,250, for the remainder of FY15 and funding the full
request of $25,000 from the Economic Development Assistance line in FY16. In addition, we
recommend budgeting a "placeholder" for $25,000 in the upcoming FY17 budget for Community
Development Assistance. Staff recommends your recommendation of this request to the City
Council.
February 24, 2015
City Council Economic Development Committee c/o Wendy Ford
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
Dear Wendy! Committee,
For the past 11 years, EDC has been actively engaged in the creation and growth of high -
impact businesses In our Creative Corridor, Over this time the businesses supported by EDC
have created over $1.5 billion In regional economic development impact. I have attached our
2014 Stakeholder Report, showing 2014 as well as program -to -date metrics. Included below is a
report outlining the direct impact for Iowa City, including example businesses supported.
EuC Client Impact
Iowa City
Since its inception, EDC has invested an increasing amount of its resources in Iowa City To date EDC
has spent over 12,500 hours working with Iowa City -based entrepreneurs Over EDC's first 11 years, we
have provided support to 52 start-up; early -stage and later -stage businesses in Iowa City who, in turn,
have contributed over $77 million in direct City impact.
Start-ups you would recognize include:
c Pear Deck
Radiology Protocols
• Atlas Ergonomics
Early -stage businesses you would recognize Include:
• Cardiostrong
• Cyber Anatomy
• Foundations in Learning
Later -stage businesses you would recognize include:
. Lienne Designs
a Luerkens Laboratories
a Ouadro Vodka
• Breads from Anna
• Tutor Universe
Collectively the Iowa City businesses supported created the following economic Impact:
Capital raised and deployed $8,916.912
Increased business revenue $44,005,882
New wages paid $24,395,193
New jobs created 107
New businesses started 10
p: 319.369.4955 a f: 319.832.1481 - - - —
230 Second St. SE, Suite 212 a Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
316 E. Court Street a Iowa City, IA 52240
EDC's engagement in Johnson County and specifically Iowa City has increased year over year
to the point in 2014 when over 50% of EDC resources were invested in Iowa City businesses.
EDC is an active partner of the University of Iowa, working or. the creation of businesses from
University technology development. EDC is also actively involved with JP —EC and the Venture
School toward this same goal. EDC is an active partner of ;CAD, helping with En— recruitment
activities when applicable and EDC staff use the Iowa City i-nl-n; facility to neat wifE, loca!
business clients. (You will note the Iowa City address on all of our literature and business
correspondence.)
EDC is a 501c6 not -for -profit organization and the funds needed to
support operations come from over 100 public and private supporters.
Cur largest supporters include the City of Cedar Rapids at $100,000 /
year and the State of Iowa at the same amount. EDC's budget is ust
under $1 M and current,y a disproportionate small share of that funding
comes from supporters in Johnson County. It is very important to the
growing number of entrepreneurs in Iowa City that EDC be able to
maintain or grow the amount of support provided, and to that end EDC
is requesting support from the City of Iowa City in the amount of
$25,000 for calendar 2015 and the same amount year over year going
forward. In return, EDC will provide reguiar updates as requested to
the Iowa City City Council and / or Economic Development Committee
outlining specific Iowa City business support and return.
I would be happy to answer questions or provide a formal presentation
at your convenience.
Thank you very much for your consideration of
support.
Since —�
Y
Curt 'Nelson
"We bunt our last
business and sold it
— thinking we did not
need the services of
EDC. After looking
deeper into what
EDC provides, when
we started our new
business last year
we did not make that
mistake again. The
support we have
received from the
team at EDC has
been invaluabie."
Ms. Michal Eynon -
Lynch, Co-founder,
Pear Dock
mi edc
Accelerating Iowa Business
EDC's Mission: To provide economic
growth ofhighimpac the Iowabusineson andexpansion E®C 2014 Stakeholder Report
of high -impact Iowa businesses.
As we wrap up EDC's 11th (and my seventh) year working with Iowa entrepreneurs,
our mission remains clear: To improve the economic vitality of our region through
the creation and growth of high -impact, scalable entrepreneurial enterprise. We
continue to grow our capabilities while broadening our reach and impact on the
region's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
As national and local interest in entrepreneurialism increases, we see more prospective entrepreneurs
coming through our door seeking support, with 2014 marking the busiest year in EDC history. We are
happy to serve a diversified group of entrepreneurs, with strong representation from students, women and
minority entrepreneurs.
New organizations recently launched in our community to
cultivate start-up businesses, such as the University of Iowa
Venture School, 1 Million Cups, Ascent and the Iowa Start Up
Accelerator, have helped to encourage new entrepreneurs.
Graduates / participants in these programs are then seeking
our assistance as they navigate from start-up idea to
scalable businesses. We welcome these new individuals and
organizations and work closely to support their activities, and
the entrepreneurs involved.
Our unique model of providing hands-on support through
all the stages of a business' life, coupled with education
and networking, is proving increasingly valuable in this
burgeoning ecosystem. If I have learned anything in working
with entrepreneurs, it is that they apparently share a gene
which leads them from idea to action in seconds! And without
this bias for action, bundled within a high tolerance for risk,
excellent creative problem -solving skills, and positive belief in what is possible, we would have far fewer
entrepreneurial businesses in our state. Because many of these entrepreneurs are starting their first business
without business training or experience, our task at EDC is to provide timely advice and guidance, through
proven methodologies, at all points in the growth cycle.
We are grateful to our supporters, old and new, who have given of their time and resources to enable EDC
to extend its network of support. On behalf of the entire EDC team, we thank each and every contributor,
individuals and organizations alike, for your contribution to our area's continued entrepreneurial and
economic vitality.
Sincerely,
?JulioeZietinski
Vice President of Marketing and Strategy
2014 EDC BOARD
Charles Rohde, President,
King's Material (Chair)
]on Dusek, President & CEO,
Armstrong Development
(Past Chair)
Mary Quass, President Et CEO,
NRG Media LLC
Doug Kopp, Vice President of
Environmental Affairs, Albant
Energy
Larry He0.mg, President Et CEO,
Cedar Rapids Bank Et Trust
Lance Dunn, Co -Founder,
Taxact.corn
Kathleen Kleiman, Member,
Simmons Pernne Moyer
Bergman PLC
Bruce Lehrman, CEO,
InvoLta
William McCartan, Attorney,
Bradley & Riley PC
Dick Schwab, Owner,
Iowa Woodworks
David Rusch, President fr CEO,
CRST International
Steve Schoenauer, Managing
Directoi, McGladrey, LLP
Terry SUlhvan, CFO Er Assistant
Vice President, CIPCO
Tim Kintner, Executive Vice
President of Consumer, Private
and Regional Banking Markets,
Bankers Trust
Iris Gulick, President,
Entrepreneurial Services
Group LLC
David Hensley, Associate VP for
Economic Development and ]PEC
Executive Director and Clinical
Professor, University of Iowa
EDC engaged with 85 area businesses
this past year; helping with expansion/
creation funding, strategic direction,
marketing planning and execution and
overall business growth.
Active Clients
EDC currently supports thirty-four (34)
clients at the following stages:
• Sixteen (16) of the clients are weLL-
established area businesses seeking
growth or restructuring assistance.
Twelve (12) of the clients are early -
stage businesses seeking growth and
capital assistance.
• Six (6) of the clients are start-ups
or pre -revenue businesses seeking
assistance with market research/
validation, business planning and
capital raising.
0• well -Established Area Businesses
Early -Stage Businesses
Stan -ups or Pre -Revenue Businesses
Client Recognition
Several EDC client companies were
recognized in 2014 for their impact and
growth:
Three (3) clients made Inc. Magazine's
500/5000 list of fastest growing
private companies:
• InvoLta (#2437)
• Clickstop (#3254)
• Ready Wireless(#4375)
As previously reported in the
Mid -Year Report, four (4) EDC clients
were recognized at the Corridor
Business Journal's Fastest Growing
Companies breakfast:
• #8lnvotta
• #15 Ready Wireless
• #161nteconnex
" #23 Cedar Ridge Vineyards
"in 2014. after careful consideration, we
undertook the development of a new product.
Throughout this process, we have used EDC as a
sounding board to develop a roll -out plan and
go -to -market strategy. I also appreciate the teams
feedback and guidance on various marketing
tactics. It is invaluable to have experienced
advisors on call to help as our company grows and
navigates new opportunities."
Greg Edwards, Founder and CEO,
WatchPoint Data
Client Funding
EDC continues to assist clients in securing critical funding needed for the growth of
their businesses. In 2014, a total of $67M was secured in equity, debt and federalf
state/regional programs.
EDC has a proven track record for assisting clients with funding applications,
securing 90% of the state and regional funds applied for in 2014. EDC assisted
8 clients who secured funding from the following programs:
IEDA Demonstration Fund ..................... ---- ................. ............. --- ........ $100,000
IEDAInnovation, Acceleration, Launch O PropeL................................... $225,000
ECICOG Revolving Loan Fund..................................................................... $806,250
John Pappajohn Business Plan Competition.............................................$25,000
IEDA Domestic Trade Show Assistance ............ _........................................... $4,000
Total........................................................................................... $1,160,250
EDC Client Impact
The table below provides information on the economic impact of EDC's clients for
2014 as well as results since the program's launch in 2003.
r
j Annual
Program to Date
Impact
(2014)
(2003-2014)
Mum of businesses supported
85
672
New revenue generated
$176M
$914M
Capital. raised
$67M
$260M
Net direct jobs added
44
-1,550
Average wage
$48k
$48k
New payroll created
$40M
$305M
Total impact
$283M
$1.479B
{edc
Accelerating Iowa Business
„The last year with them has been the greatest growth for us as
a small family business. We all feel more confident to handle
r e rapid growth working with EDC. We are all convinced that EDC
really cares about our company and us personally. We not only
highly respect their expertise, but each of them as caring people.
They know answers to our problems, before we even can identify
. what the problem is. And their solutions are logical and user
1 friendly for us as a small company. The EDC is very easy to deal
with. They do not talk down to us, they listen intently."
Freda Sojka, Founder and CEO, Simply Soothing
"The EDC has been a valuable resource to my team and I as we were mapping out our expansion strategy
and building our sales. We have also relied on the EDC time and again for help navigating the various
funding options in the state and beyond. The EDC is a critical part of growing the local economy and
entrepreneurial ecosystem. They have real -world business experience to provide guidance and resources
to help entrepreneurs succeed."
Bruce Lehrman, CEO, invoLta
"Working with EDC has been instrumental in setting up our business for growth in 2015. After working with
their staff on our business plan and financial processes, we have a much clearer path to success. We feet very
fortunate to work vAth this team."
Beth Scott, Co -Founder, AD RescueWear
"The value that top tier business schools provide to the aspiring, or serial entrepreneur, pales in
comparison to that of the team at the EDC. From introductions into private and public funding sources to
product marketing strategy, the EDC team has the colieLdve experience to see successful companies from
inception to scale. PunctiL Health evolved via weekly meetings with Curt and his team from a baseline idea
into a venture -backed digital health company based in lovira."
Ben Picard, President and COO, Punctil Health
"For a scientist, the commercial world is a confusing and ferocious mayhem, EDC staff tame this world and
make it a real opportunity. Without EDC my inventions and benefit to the public will stay at ground level,
with EDC we will soar into a successful enterprise."
Dr. Joe Assoutine, Founder, NanoMedTrix
"in 2014, EDC helped Stone Medical with talent and leadership team development, our capital raise and
virtually all aspects of our business plan: sales, marketing, operations, and financial The advice from
EDC has been very specific and comprehensive which has led to great progress in several key areas.
AdditionaLLy, the events sponsored by EDC have been excellent. We plan to continue to work with EDC in
2015 and focus on sales team recruiting and management, operations management and acquisition and
exit planning."
Benjamin Stone, CEO, Stone Medical
Ryan Ries, TranslaCare, with his IF
T-Shirt on the Great Wall in China .� -JI
91 At,
"The EDC helped us apply for and successfully win a
loan from Iowa's IEDA Launch fund. They also helped us
prepare for several investor pitches. Finally, they advised
us about our business plan and in how to approach
potential channel partners.
I always know that my pitch is going to get ion times
better after I practice for the EDC. Curt and Pete give
us clear, honest feedback but at the same time I feel
like they truly understand and value our product and
company. The result is that I fully trust their advice and
feel Like I have a personal cheerleading squad.
With our previous company, we never bothered applying
to IEDA because the process was so tong and complex.
This time, we decided to seek the help of the EDC and
during the process, Jane was very attentive, I never
worried about meeting deadlines or requirements
because 1 knew she was on top of it and would make sure
we got everything done."
Michat Eynon -Lynch, Co -Founder, Pear Deck
ow, eldc
Accelerating lowa Business
230 2nd St. SE, Suite 212 319-369-4955
Cedar Rapids, iA 52401 www.edcinc.org
316 E. Court Street
Iowa City, {A 52240 to
Proud to be port of 0 Iowa's
Creative
1 corridor
e^�Try,4 . g ,r r rrrf'a� o
Innovation EXPO 2015 is an opportunity for
Iowa entrepreneurs to hone their pitches, connect with
resources and showcase their scaling Iowa businesses.
The EXPO provides the largest venue for the business
community and interested public to connect with more
than 75 Iowa -based companies.
Wednesday,
r 21st at the
To get more information and register, visit
http://innovationexpo2Ol5.eventbrite.com
! r L
,,,,.'
CITY OF IOWA CITY
UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE
CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEiVORANDUM
Date: March 26, 2015
To: City Council Economic Development Committee
From: Wendy Ford, Economic Development Coordinator
Re: Agenda item #5 — Request for Sponsorship of Entrefest
Introduction
Organizers of Entrefest, Iowa's annual business and innovation conference have requested the
City increase its support for the event this year with a $10,000 Major Sponsorship.
History
Entrefest was started in 2008 by a coalition of many organizations including the University of
Northern Iowa, who initially hosted the conference in Cedar Falls. The conference is designed to
offer entrepreneurs, innovators and businesses new ideas, new contacts and the energy that
comes from gathering with like-minded individuals and organizations. Last year, the conference
was held in Iowa City for the first time, and attendance doubled, with more than 500 registered
attendees. The City of Iowa City was a sponsor at the $2,500 level and benefited from the
notoriety that came with playing host and helping to build the landscape for such a productive
conference.
Historically, the conference has moved from one Iowa town to another, but last year, sentiment
was strong that the conference should remain in Iowa City for at least another year or two. The
organizers, Iowa City -based Seed Here, are determined to double attendance again, to more
than 1,000, by ratcheting up the number of speakers, program tracks and activities. If Entrefest
does grow, it will become the largest conference for entrepreneurs in Iowa and will begin to
draw attendance from neighboring states. This will work favorably to position Iowa City as a
leader in fostering entrepreneurism and innovation for economic development.
Discussion
A Major Sponsorship at the $10,000 level would afford the City several tangible benefits, such
as a prominent presence in conference materials, signage, exhibit booth display areas and at
conference general sessions. Additionally, the sponsorship would include 10 Full Access
passes to ail conference activities, which we should use to make connections between the
entrepreneurial community and City government.
Recommendation
Staff recommends approving the request for a $10,000 Major Sponsorship of Entrefest.
� r �
March 25, 2015
Iowa City Economic Development Committee
C/O Geoff Fruin
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240
Dear Economic Development Committee:
EntreFEST, Iowa's annual business and innovation conference, started in 2008 with the
mission of connecting, equipping, and training entrepreneurs to grow their companies
in our state.
The statewide event is led by the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) with funding
support from a broad coalition of public and private organizations including the Iowa
Farm Bureau, Iowa Small Business Administration, Iowa Economic Development
Authority, and many others.
Last year, with the City of Iowa City's support, the conference was held in downtown
Iowa City for the first time. By all accounts, Iowa City's edition of EntreFEST was the
largest and most successful in history with attendance doubling to over 500 people.
This growth was due in large part to the unique setting of the Ped Mall. With access to
multiple venues and amenities in close proximity, our production team, Iowa City -
based Seed Here Studio, was able to expand the number of speakers, content tracks,
and activities as well as lodging for attendees.
Traditionally, EntreFEST would move to a new city in the state each year. However, we
are breaking that tradition and bringing the conference back to downtown Iowa City on
May 20-22, 2015, with intentions to stay for 2016 and beyond.
EntreFEST is returning to Iowa City to test the hypothesis that we can grow the
conference to 1000 attendees if we stay in the Ped Mall, expand our outreach, and
invest in more nationally -known speakers. If EntreFEST does grow, it will be the largest
conference for entrepreneurs in the state. At that point, we expect it to draw attendees
from adjacent states, positioning Iowa as a national leader in entrepreneurship and
Iowa City as the annual destination for the Midwest innovation community.
The University of Iowa and Iowa State University have expanded their support to join
UNI as the presenting partners for EntreFEST 2015 to help the event significantly grow.
Seed Here Studio has been contracted to manage all event design, production,
sponsorship and outreach for the third year. Joining the coalition as sponsors this year
are Kirkwood Community College, Rockwell Collins, MidAmerican Energy, McGladrey,
MiclWestOne Bank, the Iowa Bankers Association, Alliant Energy, and others.
To help us realize the unique opportunity to make EntreFEST the leading
entrepreneurship conference in the Midwest and Iowa City its longterm home, we ask
the City of Iowa City continue and expand its support for the program by sponsoring at
the $10,000 Major Sponsor level for the 2015 event. As a major sponsor, the City of
Iowa City would be recognized in the following ways:
. Recognition at plenary sessions
. Custom 'Surprise & Delight' moment
. Exhibitor Booth in featured location
. Linked logo prominent on the EntreFESTcom website, mobile app, and printed
program
. Sponsorship recognition in promotional emails
. Social media acknowledgement on Twitter and Facebook
. Logo included on way finding signage throughout the conference
. 10 Full -Access Conference Passes
Attached here are some of the promotional materials for this year's event. We believe
they capture the excitement we share for coming back to downtown Iowa City for
EntreFEST 2015.
We look forward to our discussion on the 30th. If you are interested in exploring
before then, much of our information is at www.entrefest.com and an exploration of
EntreFEST's potential economic impact is detailed at www.entrefest.com/state-impact.
Sincerely,
Amanda West
Director, EntreFEST 2015
CEO, Seed Here Studio
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Wa Java Iowa's staf997p5 and W814 to help you swcoWP Ylaw tSU3 BtT�iP YtylXl( Y3iL'�Wio,
EntreFEST is far Forunders.
Announcing a dedicated track for high -growth startup teams covering
sales, investments, pitching, co-founders, accelerators,
lean, agile, team building, business models and more.
The 2015 Founders Track presented by Saftl ayer includes,
• The Art of the Investor Pitch with Adam Koppes
• How to Not K71t Your Business Penner & Kamft Stevenson
• Ui's Venture school Prsview with Kurt Heiar
• Business Model Generation with Wads Steenhook
• sest et Irfrerors & lrveateee. a iscusakon m2dsrated by Josh Cramer
• sales siratsq ss iv, Sta:� ��upe H -lt'?
• Geit q & Keeping' anture Gapilso : ffti 1 r p rpj27,w�74L
• The Loan &jaetupMachine ae-4"z-re T,ea ;,r g*era
• Investor, Mentor, and Accelerator Speed Da*V with EMERGE and the
Global Accelerator Network
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SOFTLAYEW
an IBM Company
Kate Dram
Sr. Director of Chicago
Outreach at in _
Curtis Nelson
CEO/President at
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l.l,clud Eynon�
Lynch
Co -Founder
at Dai r Q4K"I
Getting Team Crtlture
Rigid ttom theSaglning
Fk Malay
Community
Development Manager
at
Free nd insxpens)ve)
Term Tools for
;Startups
Networ
Is an Accelerator Right
For You?
Moole Forsythe
Chief Agility Officer
at
Scrum
for Sfartups
Ali
Jeff ai Milt!
CC.Fou: lder & CFO
at Invoke
How to Price Your
Company to frrvestors
More Speakers + Sessional
(and this is just a sample of -who you'll most in the € wars Track this year)
Justin Schoen
President at
eComeov
Easy and Free Ways to
Gain "Ins visibility
and Series
Sarah Pearson
Senior Counsel at
Creative Commons
Why Content Sharing
Is arsef for Business
+ How To Do ft Well
Vsnturse in SaCeai
EntrspreneureNp
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Jayne A►tinetrong
Director at
IOMSSA
SRA Loans: Haar to
Fund Your Business
for Growth
Creole Slstiesa kernel Mon 2-6.2015 B
I ECONOMM I.IEVELOPi EN'r t
CR expands several project incentives
City also signs retail
market analysis contract
with Buxton Co.
ey aeve Oawllie
da✓sfiaxxmdmGr�resxavn
CEDAR RAIDS -A catalog of standard
economic development meretives that
the city of Cedar Rapids put in place teat
fume sceroa to bl workbag well - se wall
that the city last week expended it to nine
categories.
The city', standard incentives for qual.
ified projtas Fan inns tutu main groupsT
housing and run.hooem; fin• erry has
standardized and published the inom-
tivea in an affect to make it dear to de-
velopers that they won': have to bag&
Imow somebody or push a secret buuon
to get. dtyhelp,
Non -housing pnupci, get a 1"ter,
44 percen IA. eaeeplum, a 10-year 50
percent tax nimbvrement, or the latter s
fi m'.,ll equi"Itua in different more,
enema.
Hoeing pmtat. get a Meet, 3d0
percent tax eaempnbn oil 75 percent or
more it the hurici am duticeted for
hntivug or tax reimbunsemee, or its fi-
panclal equivalrnc
Two row couqu.nes wens Adideu to the
coating INA of .serer tree We bras>w) at
the !'eh 2.5 meeting of the tinder Rapirh
CSry, (ounul. 'Io qualify unde, the nmv
'Green ik"Iding' category, a protect v
required to haw: Lfatt) oeMncation at the
bpanza level of above. This new motel
ow category can be need as a stamlalmu
incmitive, rr layered onto an existing in
riamwe project for non-limani t pmiects,
adding an additional 10-year, 25 peno0t
reimbursement,
Theccond new category, local Match,
simply formalfzw An emoting prume of
1. Core dlsHkt reinvesbnent projects in downtown, Kingston Village,
the Ellis Boulevard area, Czech Vftg% New Bohemia, Uptown and ins
MedQuarter
2. Hlghquollry jobla - Prowhi that Virg 10 or more yobs diat meet the
stata's nigh quality jobs wage thremold
3. Large4te r,"aster Plans - Proj-k of 15 or Two acres that are not
sdelg residential, with an approved site On and design guidelines.
4. Hebfic FreSOMAN - Pro a is listed on the Ndorra: Reglsw of
Historic placea bl for a hscrig on the rsgisNr or dasigrated as a load
lanarrrark with arrow dwe�riMlation of no adverse arlec! Man ttorrelopmar4
5. BrownRe"Taylield projects that utilize vacant or stightly uncerwi
lined properties involving demolition and site prep costs.
S. Clyhmrt4a! .:Ntrno51 neat - Projects of at lees! 10 g00 Square Meet
slyctl as big -box 50tei of teW e9ipe With a;clu rfii renovation Coat of
50 percent of N currerrr taxabta value, tub sustainanie feature.
7. Local Hatch - Any project receiving state incentives contingent on a
local match.
8, f]een fdulldb - A ryp wd a m r'vurn LEED t� Rue p7 IdFx ka
S. Cannot" Benefit - Pro!acts that meai adertwnstrated ow alid
public purpose won a king -term community berretit and flrt"al viability.
such as a headquaAet's feebly, fetal bustness expansion- or en ergem
need,
providing a total match for any project
that needs it n, qualify for state fournug
,ucording to humi Alnmarxi, the ri y's
remomr Ie Alrrpmeru Casten.
Ms AlutuArwd safer standard expter-
tnms Apple in all nine categories. They arc
netghbuchwel and cpmmmuly ,rapport,
f nanctal leantul ty market fiadmnry,
a quality design that cnhaneva the sun-
mundmg uea, and the imulnmcmufan
up erieneed developmenticam.
- ;µ-rsenPvea were part et i new Em.
nomlc Development strategic plan in-
troduced by Ms. Almoayed, she said the
plan is based rn the recommendations of
three recent sandy". two by profeasiousi
mnstdting firma Angdou Economics
and Mainstream Consulting and a third
by Ilnrvermy of Iowa graduate students
looldng into workforce retention.
The beauty of the plan, council am-
bers commented, is thud M cover more
12 Atash2-6.20i5 Garkbr bss.sxar�
OR COUNDL
CCNTWMD FR01t PAGE 5
-t+ais than prevulua plans. Included in
the etrau®-an a fond beemes enta-
iten elect eepasusion plan, a ret.tl ne.eet-
mtm strategy, a branded, o mpnehen a
mackeang plan, an mcrcasemslpali busi-
n.as rnueTueaaursnip argtpor., the pre•
morn of coue distretra in the city, and
the env.igthening of relationships with
milegx anct untverines. Coordination
with partnering ewnomic devdopmem
agencies also made the He.
City council member, with Kvs ure.
lick absent, eased that. .... sup-
port for the additions. They also cared to
aopnitve a new retail market anutlysls con,
his Alme aysd added.
Ruder Co. .' ed tited iwti Re-
t e Stuugiea LLC, wluch Ind a lower
$135,000 prick, but nc"W a lower at.
big for compliance retch the city s relec-
drn rai[era
Council members praised Ma. .V-
musyed and City Manager rem Pumemrz
for their work on the plan. They seemed
eatudally pleased the it tndudas qu n-
u1mve pertermam.e indicatom and up.
dams from ect rromic development part-
mm funded by the city. Council member
Ann Ibe mild she has long Advocated for
measures of performance by such funded
ent ties.
Conned member seen oboe, a corn
n.crid real mural agent who recently
helped the city recruit at the big interna.
door Covered u(Shopping Cenrara.hum.
said the plan 'kr other people roneidrr-
ing the city know we have a vision and a
plan'
The plan 'ken of Or in a lot of the
gaps than were missing ha the rely's e
nomic development policy,' said Pat
Shey, another cw rzi! • -3 d>t:.
Mr. Shey asked rate oY u'v ,ow
CR C0t.4i:0. CRPASE 12
ttsatwidl'1'ht Buxton (;a, nf?'nn Worth,
Texas, for $150,000, helping bring the
plans read uoremonere emphasis dower
1p reality Tite comet is for $50,000 per
yteemm Mann 1.2 ,through Feb. la,
Z01e.
Buxton Co. to one ut the higiveat ag-
greganrn in the United Stories or matkct
data, attending to Ms Almrayed. Tht
one is able to aeatyae consumer demr-
graphics and spending, ipduding leak-
age' ufai>s¢d;itg outnd<the rommunity,
and then align the I"M spetdmg needs
with retailer who are expanding in a m
glen. Services provided by the comparuy
include not only idandfying retail chains
that make good tatters for recruiting d-
fores, but preperingiccrelitniona M eriel.
that highhghtlocal marlmt opportunities,
ed quesd.... on the psngram; wjadher
deyebimty -quaky have to 'w'c they
have a financial need to 'trove :;tome
fives, or whether they can simph quality
by having a project that fits the ,,%oey.
Community Development DireCnr
Jennifer Pitt said the city obtain mfoe-
madre about how much of a 5nsudal
mwsuuem the developer are mak,ng in
the pm*L She said the financio.I need of
each project is not analyzed but tbv my
has sp-d&Aly identified the hrvrakietd
project categories as alias :equating ape.
CIA] ficuour.l asefstarce.
Ms, Platt said the_ city should Irack the
marker vends in each mcg"5, hove,,%.
m d.tyri"Jne tf the ,weJ fix uuce.wa a..
mein. utter time.
Aber, toe the plan sues also offered by
toy., a ire, econemh' Jcyelopowm "Air
ram ti,at win be mftlrHd, C'on pkrluan of
the Nlituva se —I lkwlepouml (:enter
of lowa, and Rim itwaa ,d It"kwoud
Community College. Ifs. &,,,ka, vice
pmst"rit for continuing education. mod
the plan bungs additional aseen and re-
sources ro aam7 '- 'r'vfcryr tumult m
the community.' 0.)