Special to the Times Vedette
The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) recently announced $35.9 million in workforce housing tax credits to support development in 36 counties across the state.
The awards will fund 63 projects expected to create nearly 2,000 new residential units — 1,217 in large communities and 752 in smaller towns.
“When families can find quality, affordable homes, they put down roots — and that gives businesses the steady workforce they need,” Debi Durham, director of IEDA and the Iowa Finance Authority, said. “It’s that kind of stability that keeps our communities strong and our economy moving forward.”
IEDA received 137 applications requesting about $83 million in tax credits. Of the $35 million available for fiscal 2026, $17.5 million was specifically reserved for projects in Iowa’s 88 least-populated counties. Applications were evaluated on readiness, financing, community impact, developer experience and innovation.
Origin Homes, a rural, custom homebuilder that builds in all 99 Iowa counties, has one of the projects with its Dream Acres Housing in Panora, creating five housing units with a total tax credit of $199,999. Origin is on its fourth year of the Rural Housing Initiative.
“Origin Homes is fortunate to continue to collaborate with so many talented communities across the state and the list of those wanting to partner is growing quickly. Panora’s leaders had their housing studies complete, with single-family home types in mind, and the home lots ready to build,” Matt Daniels, director of operations for Origin Homes, said.
Origin plans to build five ranch homes in Panora’s Dream Acres public-private neighborhood, developed by Panora Fiber. The homes will range from two-three bedrooms, all around 1,400-1,500 square feet with finished and unfinished basements. The homes are three blocks from main street and one block from Panora’s schools and Little Panthers Daycare.
“Right now, we have employers struggling to fill key positions, young families who want to stay but can’t find a home and newcomers ready to join our community — if we can find them homes. Origin has a proven track record across rural Iowa and their initiative is built on collaboration, local insight and long-term vision,” Panora Mayor Curt Thornberry said.
The Workforce Housing Tax Credit program supports projects that redevelop abandoned, vacant or deteriorated properties. For more information about the program, visit iowaeda.com/workforce-housing-tax-credit.