The Southwest Iowa Coalition is a nonprofit 501(c)(6). It is a volunteer-based, grassroots organization. Members work through standing committees which are mobilized as needed to address timely and relevant issues. SWICO has one part-time membership and communication coordinator through an employee partnership agreement with Iowa State University Extension to Community Economic Development.
SWICO works off of a modest budget derived from affordable dues to provide opportunities and communications for its members.
Commonality of SWICO members lie with their shared rural challenges in the areas of business development, regional infrastrucutrue and demographics of out-migration and low income levels. Together, founders believed they could better influence policy and secure resources critical to the economic well-being of the region as a whole – and the Coalition was born.
Today and two decades later, the Coalition remains a regional force for advocacy with representation from cities, county boards of supervisors, businesses, industry, agricultural groups, nonprofits and concerned citizens throughout 16 southwest Iowa counties. It is recognized on a state and federal level by legislators as an advocacy organization with a grassroots “voice for southwest Iowa” and one that has been visionary with its projects and activities.
Organizational Time Line
1991 | The first meeting included 33 people from Shenandoah, Corning and Red Oak.
1992 | An invitational, introductory meeting to the Coalition brought almost 75 people to Corning to discuss their common concerns.
1993 – 1994 | grassroots recruiting effort of regional leaders brought an informal group of individuals together representing 14 counties.
1994 | Dues paying membership in SWICO numbered almost 175.
1995 to 1996 | A formalized approach to doing business began to evolve that included the writing of by-laws and articles of incorporation. Recognizing the need for a financing arm for the organization, the Grow Iowa Foundation, Inc.(GIF) was formed with $200,000 in seed money from participating counties and $800,000 from the United States Department of Agriculture.
Today | SWICO continues to support local economic development leadership with a layer of broad regional advocacy and support of regional projects.
SWICO meets for regular meetings throughout its membership area. Any member can host a meeting by contacting the office.
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