The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) announced $250,000 in Inspire Iowa grants to projects in Linn, Polk, Scott, Shelby and Woodbury counties. The Inspire Iowa program was launched by the Iowa Tourism Office and Iowa Arts Council, both divisions of the IEDA, to elevate the perception of Iowa as a cultural destination and promote out-of-state visits and extended stays. The Des Moines Art Center was awarded $40,000 to bring an exhibit of the work of artist Firelei Baez and to create a multichannel marketing campaign. The Iowa Tourism Office works closely with community partners, attractions and events to promote the state’s scenery and history. Tourism in Iowa generated $6.9 billion in expenditures in 2022, with more than $1.1 billion supporting state and local governments, while employing a total of 68,607 people statewide. To view the full list of projects receiving awards, click here.