About WEDG
Economic Development Leadership Since 1986
Our Mission
The Washington Economic Development Group works to strengthen our local economy by providing businesses with the support, resources, and connections they need to thrive.
Our Vision
A thriving Washington County where businesses prosper, communities grow, and future generations have opportunities to succeed.
Who We Are
The Washington Economic Development Group (WEDG) is a local, public‒private partnership, 501(C) (6) non‒profit organization formed in 1986. It grew out of a private, community based for‒profit development corporation, Washington Industries, Inc. that was formed in the 1950s to provide leadership and direction to enhance economic development efforts for the benefit of the greater Washington area. In today’s economic environment, a holistic approach is required when addressing economic and community development. Bring people together, identify opportunities and implement solutions.
What We Do
- Business Retention & Expansion
- Entrepreneur Assistance
- Site Selection
- Workforce Development
- Housing Initiatives
- Community Development
- Grant Assistance
- Business Advocacy
- Economic Research & Data
- Washington Business Park Development
A New Brand for a Countywide Mission
Our New Brand
Proudly funded by
The Washington Economic Development Group is grateful to the Washington County Riverboat Foundation for its 2026 grant investment supporting our organizational rebrand and updated logo. This project helped ensure our identity better reflects our countywide mission to connect communities, support businesses, and advance economic growth throughout Washington County.
The rebrand also supports our new "WE" campaign — a reminder that economic development is a shared effort. Whether it's WE are Kalona, WE are Riverside, WE are Wellman, or WE are Ainsworth or any of the other towns in our county, the message is that every community, business, organization, and resident has a role in shaping our future together.
For two decades, the Washington County Riverboat Foundation has been one of the region's most significant catalysts for growth and community improvement, investing millions of dollars into projects that strengthen quality of life, expand opportunities, and support long-term prosperity. Their commitment to communities across the county has helped create lasting impacts in education, healthcare, recreation, economic development, and countless local initiatives. We are honored by their support and proud to continue building on the foundation they have helped establish for Washington County's future.
WEDG partners with existing and new businesses for the benefit of all involved. We are the premier Economic Development organization in Washington County, Iowa.
I Want To...
Links
Serving all of Washington County: Washington • Kalona • Riverside • Wellman • Brighton • Ainsworth • Crawfordsville • West Chester • Coppock
Copyright © 2026 WEDG.
All rights reserved.
Developed and Maintained by The Dig Studios.
A local company in Washington, Iowa.