About IAED
Who is Ithaca Area
Economic Development?
Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) is a private non-profit economic development organization serving Ithaca and Tompkins County. We are New York State’s first and only Accredited Economic Development Organization, one of just 70 across North America.
Since 1964, IAED has maintained a singleness of purpose: create a supportive business climate that attracts, grows, and retains companies that provide quality employment. To that end, IAED provides customized economic development solutions to help you grow and prosper. It’s who we are and what we do.
Through forward-thinking, strategic partnerships with businesses, government, academic institutions, and area non-profits, we’re your one-stop shop for success. Check out this website and some of the amazing things we’re doing. Then get in touch and let’s get creative together!
Our Services
Business Services
IAED provides customized resources that fit the needs of businesses at every stage of growth and development. From start-ups to stalwarts, IAED promotes economic vitality through financial support, workforce services, assistive technologies, and so much more.
Economic Strategy
IAED is instrumental in shaping Tompkins County’s Comprehensive Plan, Economic Development Strategy 2.0, and Recovery Strategy. And we’re just as integral when working with local, regional, and state partners to make it all happen.
Leadership
IAED president, Heather McDaniel, serves on the boards of the Internal Economic Development Council, NYS Economic Development Council, and Tompkins County Air Services Board. Her staff follow suit, sharing their expertise at all levels of governance.
Programs & Initiatives
Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency
The TCIDA delivers tax incentives to support job growth, business development, and community revitalization.
Tompkins County
Development Corporation
The TCDC is a conduit to the tax-exempt bond market and low-cost financing.
Initiatives
IAED coordinates key initiatives, including the 2020 Water & Sewer Evaluation Update, Tourism Capital Grants, broadband infrastructure, and more.
IAED Loan Fund
The IAED Loan Fund helps entrepreneurs start new enterprises and expand existing businesses.
Our Team
IAED is dedicated to helping businesses start, grow, and stay in Ithaca and Tompkins County. Our team brings with it a wealth of knowledge and experience to support a healthy and prosperous local economy.
Heather McDaniel
President
Chuck Schwerin
Managing Director of Business Services
Danielle Szabo
Director of Workforce Innovation
Kurt Anderson
Director of Development, Operations, and Strategy
Ina Arthur
Manager of Administrative Services
Contact IAED
What does your business need? We’ll help answer your questions, connect you to resources, and support your business as it starts, grows, and evolves.