Economic Development

Conducting Business with the Economic Development Department

In the interest of public health and controlling the spread of COVID-19, the City of Dubuque Economic Development Department is conducting limited business in-person.

For your convenience, there are still a number of ways to do business with Economic Development during this time:

Grant and Incentive Applications can still be submitted electronically.
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If you are a small business experiencing economic hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, please work with our partners at the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation to learn about state and federal assistance.

Who We Are

The City of Dubuque's Economic Development Department strives to create and develop a viable, livable, and equitable community.

Dubuque is open for business...your business! We will accompany your development endeavor whether you are seeking to start a new business, relocate to Dubuque, or expand an existing business in Dubuque.

At the tri-state intersection of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin, Dubuque connects your business to extensive geographical and talent resource pools. We pride our department on sustainable practices and public-private partnerships where the City works hand-in-hand with private enterprises, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions to create a community where your business and employees thrive.

What We Offer

The City of Dubuque's Economic Development Department employs a collaborative model to help your business maximize its resources. The strategies we use to benefit your business include:

Incentive programs including local loans, grants, and tax-rebate opportunities which can be combined with state and federal programs to complete a financial package for your business.
Community partnership between public and private businesses and organizations aimed at creating mutually beneficial economic development.
Investment in the arts to foster economic prosperity through inspiration, education, engagement, and improvement in the quality of life.

Where We Are Going

Dubuque's City Council develops annual and long-term priorities, which are then used to develop our budget and focus. We welcome you to discover how the following development priorities can help your business succeed in Dubuque.

Explore City Council Goals & Priorities

Low and Moderate Income Owned Business Assistance Grant:

Accepting applications again in Fall 2023

The City of Dubuque has established a Low and Moderate Income Owned Business Assistance Grant of up to $3,000 to help qualified low-and moderate-income (LMI) business owners succeed over the long term. Learn more.