case study_
Calhoun County Economic Development
project overview
Calhoun County, located in central/northwest Iowa, is home to 13 vibrant communities with a population of 9,725. In 2023, Calhoun County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) underwent strategic planning, led by Emerge, to align all stakeholders and community partners on a three-year vision and detailed plan to focus the organization’s efforts. Part of the plan included a new website and supportive marketing materials.
problem_
In 2023, Calhoun County Economic Development was uniquely positioned with new leadership to pursue significant development for their business park along Highway 20. It was identified that while there was already an existing strategic plan and efforts had been pursued in recent years to evaluate economic data for the area, a refresh of the plan that was tactical, yet visionary, was imperative for economic growth.
solution _
Emerge Marketing Solutions first stepped in to help create a three-year strategic plan with CCEDC and its various stakeholders. We facilitated the initial huddle-up session to take a deep dive into the various opportunities and priorities of the organization and develop strategic initiatives to pursue over the next three years. The outcome of this session was a 2024-2026 strategic plan with an emphasis on the Hwy 20 business park development, assigned roles, and actionable steps to begin implementation. Through this process, it was identified that CCEDC wanted to undergo a brand identity refresh, which would include a refreshed brand and logo, a new website, and supporting marketing materials. Emerge completed the website project, spanning from site architecture to content creation and design, before delivering assets to a third party for the build. Emerge also refreshed CCEDC’s brand identity with a new logo, sub-logos, and tagline to be used digitally and through print materials, which they implemented immediately. Lastly, through a brainstorming session, Emerge was tasked with creating a custom folder with “sell sheet” inserts to market Calhoun County at trade shows, to prospective developers, or anyone interested in relocating.
impact _
While the strategic plan is in its first year of activation, many of the deliverables have been achieved or are actively being worked on. Having the detailed plan has allowed for ownership and accountability while having a centralized resource to reference and report on to stakeholders. The new website showcases CCEDC’s innovative and modern brand while intentionally integrating the reasons to live, build, and grow in Calhoun County.
what we do _
scope of work
Details
- Location: Rockwell City, Iowa
- Industry: Economic Development
- Services provided: Strategic planning, brand development, graphic design, website design
let’s get started _
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