1000 Friends of Iowa

We are an Iowa nonprofit, founded in 1998, focused on promoting responsible land use and sustainability in community, state, and federal development decisions.

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Thank you to everyone who attended the 2025 Best Development Awards ceremony at the Capitol last week. We extend our congratulations to this year’s winners for their outstanding contributions to responsible land use and sustainable development.

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Please join us January 21 for the 2025 Best Development Awards. Enjoy refreshments and a light lunch as we recognize award winners for their incredible projects that span the state and showcase what smart growth looks like in IA. The award ceremony will be held at the IA Capitol.

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Know of a greenspace that brings people together? The Placemaking/Greenspace category honors spaces that blend sustainability, culture, and inclusivity, encouraging community engagement with nature and local businesses.

Deadline: Nov 15, 2024
Apply: https://t.co/ZMo6fAsRlG

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Know a project boosting bike, transit, or pedestrian access? The Transportation/Complete Streets category honors efforts that enhance safety, reduce car reliance, and promote placemaking through accessible, innovative transit options.

Due: 11/15
Apply: https://t.co/ZMo6fAsRlG

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Know of a project that manages stormwater runoff? The Stormwater Management category honors initiatives that improve water quality through natural filtration, landscaping, or recycled water use, supporting sustainable growth.

Apply now//1000friendsofiowa.org/our-programs/bes ...

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

The Renovated Residential category honors projects that transform existing structures into single/multi-family homes. This focuses on sustainability, community, and salvaging materials while enhancing connectivity and housing.

Deadline: 11/15
Apply now//1000friendsofiowa.org ...

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

The New Residential category of the Best Development Awards honors projects that prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency, including homes/short-term stays. Projects that emphasize green spaces and walkability are valued.

Deadline: 11/15
Apply now//1000friendsofiowa.o ...

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Is your project a leader in renewable energy? The Renewable Energy category in 2025 Best Development Awards honors efforts to reduce fossil fuel use and carbon emissions through solar, wind, hydropower, or geothermal sources.

Deadline: 11/15
Apply now//1000friendsofiowa.org/ ...

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Does your project blend commercial and residential spaces while promoting sustainability? The Mixed Use 2025 Best Development Awards celebrates projects that minimize environmental impact and offer accessible housing.

Deadline: 11/15
Apply now//1000friendsofiowa.org/our-pro ...

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Have you turned an existing structure into a sustainable commercial space? The Renovated Commercial category of the 2025 Best Development Awards celebrates projects using salvaged materials and energy-efficient tech.

Deadline: 11/15
Apply now: https://t.co/ZMo6fAsRlG

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Has your commercial project positively impacted the community? Apply for the 2025 Best Development Awards in the New Commercial category! This award honors developments using sustainable materials and energy-efficient practice.

Deadline: 11/15
Apply now: https://t.co/Ac5unD1ZHg

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

The Renovated Civic category highlights projects that repurpose existing structures for civic use, emphasizing sustainability with salvaged materials and energy-efficient tech. Community engagement and walkability are key.

Deadline: 11/15
Apply today//1000friendsofiowa.org/o ...

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Completed a civic project promoting sustainability? Nominate it for the 2025 Best Development Awards! The New Civic category highlights projects that reduce environmental impact, enhance public spaces, and create lasting benefits.

Apply now//1000friendsofiowa.org/our-progra ...

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Celebrate Iowa's top sustainable development projects! Nominations are open for the 1000 Friends of Iowa Best Development Awards. Businesses, cities, developers, and individuals can apply to be recognized for smart growth and community impact. Apply now: https://t.co/ZMo6fAsRlG

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Driving Week is here now to Oct 6th! Join 1000 Friends of Iowa in promoting clean transportation and reducing our carbon footprint. Let’s walk, bike, or take public transit to keep our air clean and our communities thriving. Every step counts for a greener future!

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

We're excited to have Laura Belin as part of our DSM Transportation Academy! Laura has been a 1000 Friends of Iowa board member since 2002 and will bring fresh perspectives to the conversation on transportation improvements. Don’t miss out—apply today!

https://t.co/goKqoGJ8BW

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

We’re pleased to have Dian Nostikasari speaking at the Transportation Academy! With deep experience in urban development and transportation, Dian will provide insights on making our transportation system more accessible and safe. Apply today!

https://t.co/w8OgSwydAw

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Introducing LaVon Griffieon, one of our knowledgeable speakers at the DSM Transportation Academy! Lavon is the founder of 1000 Friends of Iowa. Specializing in urban sprawl, she will help guide us toward better, safer transportation solutions. Apply now! https://t.co/goKqoGJ8BW

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

Join us in welcoming Raveena John to the Des Moines Community Transportation Academy! With expertise in transportation systems, Raveena will share important strategies for improving transportation access and safety. Secure your spot in the academy today! https://t.co/goKqoGJ8BW

[1000 Friends of Iowa @1000FriendsofIA]

We're excited to welcome Jeremy Lewis to the DSM Transportation Academy! With years of experience in active transportation options, he brings insight to creating safer, more accessible transportation networks. Don’t miss this opportunity!

https://t.co/goKqoGJ8BW