Photographer: Aaron Koopal of Urbandale, IA

Organization Award for Excellence

This Organization Award for Excellence is presented annually to local or statewide organizations that assist communities with planning and implementation of programs that enhance the quality of life in Iowa.

2026 Recipient:
Iowa Area Development Group (IADG)

The Organization Award for Excellence goes to Iowa Area Development Group for their lasting, measurable impact in Iowa driven by their commitment to strengthening Iowa’s communities and their strategic economic development.

Previous Recipients

• 2025 – AARP Iowa
• 2024 – Iowa Rural Development Council
• 2023 – Iowa Rural Development Council
• 2022 – Iowa Bicycle Coalition
• 2021 – Pocahontas County Foundation
• 2020 – Iowa’s County Conservation System
• 2019 – Iowa Department of Transportation and the Living Roadways Trust Fund
• 2018 – Iowa Downtown Resource Center
• 2017 – Pride in Community Appearance (PICA) Volunteer Group
• 2016 – The Iowa League of Cities