Terry Branstad hopes to energize the state of Iowa's economy in the midst of a nationwide downturn by creating a welcoming environment for new small businesses and entrepreneurs to create jobs.
The former governor who is the current Republican gubernatorial candidate spoke Wednesday at the Best Western Regency Inn to attendees at the Iowa Association of Community College Trustees annual conference, which is being hosted by Marshalltown Community College.
Branstad said he saw where Iowa is ranked last in the nation in new business start-ups.
"That's something we've got to change," he said.
Branstad encouraged the community college administrators to try to help with the growth in new business and promote entrepreneurship. He commended community colleges for forming partnerships within their communities, particularly for those allowing high school students to earn college credit before they leave high school.
Branstad is running against incumbent Democrat Chet Culver this fall. He admitted there are challenges ahead for the state due to the economy, but said those challenges create opportunities.
"I'm excited about the future," Branstad said. "I think our best days can be ahead of us if we work together."
Branstad will be back in the area Friday for a public town hall meeting at 1 p.m. at Gifts of Grace in Gladbrook.
The IACCT conference continues at MCC today and Friday and features more than 200 attendees from community colleges across the state.
"It's a tremendous opportunity for the colleges to communicate with each other," said Iowa Valley Community College District Board President Conrad Dejardin. "We have so much to learn from each other."
Culver is expected to speak today at the conference in an event not open to the public.
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Contact Andrew Potter at 641-753-6611 or apotter@timesrepublican.com
