September 29, 2008 – During the week of September 22nd, the Alliant Energy Economic Development team was on the road presenting the Economic Gardening workshops in three of our communities – Riverside, Iowa; Belmont, Wisc.; and Madison, Wisc. The workshops were very well-received. Attendees included a mix of business people, economic development professionals, community volunteers and elected or appointed officials. Comments from attendees were overwhelmingly positive.
From Riverside:
“I am going to reallocate budget for 2009 to align with this concept.”
“It (Economic Gardening concept) is just sooo logical!”
“It wasn’t just a lecture, it was interactive and fun.”
“Chris introduced a whole new great idea for us to think about”
From Belmont:
“I really appreciated getting the info I need to start this program in my home community.”
“An eye-opening experience.”
From Madison:
“It really opened my eyes to a new way to view Economic Development.”
“I liked the no-nonsense approach to the realities of globalization and the need to change from cost competition in communities.”
“I learned that you don’t need an interstate or rail spur to attract business.”
“The session was packed with information and experience to back up all the resources and tools provided.”
