A week of events relating to innovation and entrepreneurship will take place in Sioux City as part of the 5^th annual Launch Week, November 10^th – 17^th. With speakers, startup presentations and plenty of networking, Launch Week aims to inspire, motivate, and promote collaboration among professionals.

Real estate development firm, J Development, has announced plans to redevelop three historic buildings in Sioux City, including 413 Pierce Street (former Hatch Furniture Building), 520 Nebraska Street (Commerce Building) and 2825 Douglas Street (former St. Luke’s/Methodist Hospital Building). J. Development, an Omaha, NE-based firm, will purchase the three properties for development into mixed-use and market-rate residential facilities. Redevelopment of the three projects will add more than 175 market-rate housing units to the market with a total capital investment of $34 million.

A “Growing Sioux City Award” was presented to Ho-Chunk, Inc. today at a ribbon cutting and open house event for 103 Virginia Square. Presented by Mayor Bob Scott, the award recognizes the company’s growth and investment in Sioux City. The “Growing Sioux City Award” was accepted by Ho-Chunk, Inc. Chief Investment Officer Dennis Johnson. Sioux City wind shirts were provided to company executives and a new tree will be planted at the Virginia Square properties, signifying the company’s commitment to growing in Sioux City.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority Board voted unanimously to give contingent approval to Sioux City’s Reinvestment District program application on August 18. The state board approved $13.5 million in financial assistance toward four proposed projects totaling $134 million.