1. Building a Stronger Iowa, One piece at a time

2. DCA Director Director Mary Cownie Citizens Advisory Board ChairTerry Lynch Vice ChairQuentin Hart Great Places Staff Francis Boggus Linda Howard

3. Creativity is the currency of the 21 st Century

4. ► A Great Place has a Community-based Vision and Action Plan to improve the quality of life and economy of their area. ► In addition, they have already demonstrated pride and creativity.

5. Benefits of being a Great Place ► Collaborative community effort establishes priorities ► Coaches from State agencies guide you ► Grant dollars (if legislature approves) ► Preferential consideration for departmental grants ► The quality of life and economy in your place improve

6. Great Places leverage funds

7. Year 1 Exploratory Track ► Legislative Breakfast & Training ► Form local committees ► Complete Seven Dimensions ► Community Visioning Completed ► Attend training & Recognition Banquet ► Projects proposed

8. Year 2 Pre-proposal Track ► Legislative Breakfast & training ► Interdepartmental Coaching ► Pre-proposal Submitted ► Advisory Board Reviews and meet with applicant to determine readiness ► Coaching resumes ► Final proposal submitted ► Board visits finalists and designate GP ► Recognized at the GP Banquet

9. Year 3 Designation Period ► Work Plan Completed ► Legislative Breakfast & Proclamation ► Staff review projects ► Departmental grants completed & submitted ► Training ► Attend Annual Banquet

10. Visioning ► Utilize outside expert to facilitate ► Include all elements of your community ► Process is shared public information

11. 7 Dimensions of a Great Place ► Unique sense of place ► Engaging experiences ► Sustainable Community & Pleasing Environment ► Rich, diverse Social Fabric ► Vital, Creative Economy ► Strong Foundation ► Creative Culture

12. Great Places cultivate the unique and authentic qualities that make it special

13. Obstacles to Becomng a Great Place ► Excellent leadership in team building & follow-up is required ► A large cohesive group of talented citizens must work very hard for a very long time

14. The Hedgehog Concept

15. Building a Stronger Iowa, one piece at a time