Economic Development
Economic Development supports business retention, expansion, and recruitment. The department works with site selectors, provides incentive program information, connects businesses to workforce resources, and promotes Waverly's quality of life as a competitive advantage for attracting employers and residents.
Department focus
Business development, site selection, workforce, incentives, and community growth
Current priorities
- Business retention and recruitment
- Site selector and incentive information
- Workforce development partnerships
- Community marketing and growth strategy
Services offered
Explore this department
Business Advantages
Waverly is strategically located in northeast Iowa along US Highway 218 (Avenue of the Saints), providing direct four-lane access to Waterloo–Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, and Interstate 380. The city is served by the Union Pacific and Iowa Northern railroads. The Waverly Municipal Airport accommodates general aviation, and the Waterloo Regional Airport is 15 minutes south.
Development & Sites
Waverly has commercial and industrial sites available for development, including shovel-ready lots in the Waverly Industrial Park and downtown commercial spaces. The city maintains an inventory of available buildings and development parcels. Contact Economic Development for current listings and site tours.
News & Resources
The Economic Development Department publishes an annual report summarizing development activity, new investment, and job creation. Key economic indicators including employment data, building permits, and sales tax trends are tracked and shared with the Economic Development Commission and City Council.
Commission
The Economic Development Commission is an advisory body appointed by the Mayor that guides the city's economic development strategy. The Commission reviews incentive applications, recommends policy to the City Council, and helps set priorities for business recruitment, retention, and workforce development efforts.
Last reviewed: March 2026