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First Impressions Program


Travel Iowa partners with Iowa State University on the First Impressions program, created out of the industry strategic plan imperative of ensuring tourism readiness.
 
The First Impressions program is a comprehensive community assessment conducted by a trained team of unannounced visitors. This program helps communities with a population of 10,000 or fewer identify their strengths and weaknesses through the lens of a first-time visitor and develop strategies to strengthen their tourism economy.  Two communities were chosen in early 2024 to be the pilot communities for this new program: Corning and Maquoketa. 

Applications now open!
In 2025,  five communities will be selected to participate. Click here for more details, and click here to apply. The application deadline is January 31, 2025.

Future expansion is planned to service more communities and communities with larger populations at a cost to be determined. 

2024 Pilot Community Final Reports:

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