Find our current and past year's annual reports.
As I reflect on the past year, I am reminded that meaningful progress is rarely built overnight.
Strong communities, successful businesses, and thriving regions are the result of steady investment, thoughtful planning, and people working together toward a shared vision.
Dear Friends and Partners,
As I reflect on the past year, I am reminded that meaningful progress is rarely built overnight. Strong communities, successful businesses, and thriving regions are the result of steady investment, thoughtful planning, and people working together toward a shared vision. This year’s theme, Solid Foundations. Greater Future., captures that idea.
Over the past year, Greater Dubuque Development Corporation has focused on preparing our region for future success. Much of that work has been centered on implementing the vision outlined in our new strategic plan, adopted in March 2025. Rather than simply identifying goals, our board and staff have worked to develop the strategies, relationships, and organizational capacity needed to turn that vision into action. This year has been about moving from planning to implementation and positioning the organization for long-term success.
As Chair, one of my priorities has been engaging members of our Board of Directors. I am grateful for a board that is committed not only to governance, but also to actively supporting the mission and future direction of Greater Dubuque Development and its impact in our community. Their expertise and dedication have positioned the organization for many opportunities ahead.
We have also remained focused on being a positive, collaborative force within our community, advancing solutions that benefit the Greater Dubuque region as a whole. Whether supporting workforce initiatives, assisting business growth, or helping communities prepare for future opportunities, our role is often to help put the right pieces in place for success.
Supporting existing businesses remains one of the clearest examples of that approach. During the past fiscal year, Greater Dubuque Development responded to more than 530 requests for assistance from businesses across the region. Whether helping companies navigate expansions, workforce challenges, development projects, or access resources, our team continues to deliver the responsive, relationship-driven support that has become a hallmark of this organization.
This year also marked an important leadership transition. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I extend our sincere appreciation to Rick Dickinson for decades of service and leadership. After a comprehensive national search, we found our next President and CEO right here and welcomed Jason White. We look forward to the leadership Jason will provide as we advance our strategic priorities.
As we approach the conclusion of the Greater Dubuque 2027 campaign and begin looking toward the next, I am optimistic about what lies ahead. Because of the investments made over the years by our investors and communities, Greater Dubuque Development is well-positioned to continue leading efforts that support and attract business, grow our population, and ignite regional prosperity. Whether you are building a business, advancing a career, raising a family, or helping shape the future of our community, YOU can be great here.
Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and your commitment to the Greater Dubuque region. Together, we have built a strong foundation. Together, we will create an even greater future.
Zach Keeling
2025-2026 Board Chair, Greater Dubuque Development Corporation
Chief Executive Officer, Medical Associates Clinic & Health Plans