Building a Stronger Future.
The SEDC supports local businesses, drives economic growth, and creates opportunities to strengthen Spencer’s future.
Available Grants
Commercial Business Assistance Grant Program
The Commercial Business Assistance Grant supported Spencer businesses impacted by the June 2024 flooding. This grant covered up to 25% of non-structural recovery costs, including equipment, furniture, and inventory. We’re proud to partner with the City of Spencer and Spencer Municipal Utilities to help our local businesses rebuild and strengthen our community’s economy.
The Commercial Business Assistance Grant application period is closed. Of 84 total applications, 70 businesses were awarded over $1,057,000 in flood recovery grants.
Spencer Child Care Study
SEDC has engaged with First Children's Finance (FCF) to conduct a Child Care Study in 2025 with a Market Analysis, Strategic Plan, and Financial Modeling. This study is made possible by grant support through the Iowa Economic Development Authority, Iowa Area Development Group, and Iowa Rural Development Council.
Child Care Market Analysis (January - April)
Parent, Provider, and Employer surveys complete - FCF analyzed and compiled results. See the full Market Analysis.
Strategic Planning (April - August)
Identify community priorities; Develop goals, strategies, and vision; Report presented to SEDC in August. Read the Strategic Plan.
Financial Modeling (4 months)
FCF meets with steering committee to Build assumptions, Draft financial model; Report to be completed in December.
Who We Are
The Spencer Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) is dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment and strengthening the local economy. As a key driver of growth in Spencer and the surrounding area, we work to support businesses, attract new opportunities, and enhance the community’s economic vitality.
Through strategic partnerships and forward-thinking initiatives, we help businesses expand, provide funding opportunities, and address key challenges that impact economic development. Whether it’s assisting with business recovery, workforce development, or community planning, SEDC is committed to building a stronger future for Spencer.
Board of Directors:
- President: Jason Warren, Northwest Bank
- Vice President: Kent Nelson, SMU Board of Directors
- Secretary/Treasurer: Steven Pick, SMU
- Director: Kevin Robinson, City of Spencer
- Philip Ramstack, MWI Components
- Jamie Storey, Consumers Lumber Company
- Loren Reit, Spencer City Council
Explore Spencer
Discover a vibrant community that blends small-town charm with big opportunities. From a revitalized downtown and growing business sector to parks, events, and local pride, Spencer is a place where progress and community go hand in hand.
News
Spencer Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) has announced their new logo and website, showcasing the organization’s brand, purpose and projects. Both the logo and website were created by 154i in Spencer. SEDC is a local economic development agency for the City of Spencer and surrounding area, with the purpose to foster, encourage, promote, assist or otherwise […]
On Tuesday, September 16th, the Spencer Chamber Ambassadors visited the SEDC board to hear updates on current projects including the new website and logo, North Y developments, flood recovery efforts, housing developments, and more. Hear some of the updates.
SPENCER, IOWA – Spencer Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) and First Children’s Finance (FCF) have released a Child Care Market Analysis and Strategic Plan for the Spencer area, outlining relevant child care data, child care market analysis, and FCF’s key findings regarding care in the area. SEDC contracted with FCF to perform a child care study […]
Article by Spencer Daily Reporter On June 22, 2024, Candice McGuire’s life, like so many other Spencer residents’, was upended by disaster. Both McGuire’s home and business, Northwest Glass, located on South Grand Avenue were inundated by floodwaters. Ultimately, Northwest Glass ended up with 91 inches of water in its small compound, which included workshops, […]
SPENCER, Iowa (KCAU) — Nearly 10 months ago, the town of Spencer was hit by historic flooding, destroying many people’s homes. While the community is still recovering, efforts are underway to build several new apartment buildings for residents. Many of the buildings impacted by the flooding will soon be torn down and rebuilt. “The vast […]
SPENCER, Iowa (KCAU) – The Spencer Economic Development Corporation created a grant for businesses impacted by last year’s flooding. The Commercial Business Assistance Grant could provide anywhere from $1,000 to $25,000 for local businesses. The grant funds can be used for replacing inventory, equipment, and other necessities, though it doesn’t cover structural damage. The Spencer […]
Community Partners
