DES MOINES, IOWA (October 12, 2026) — 1000 Friends of Iowa, a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to responsible land-use and sustainability, is accepting nominations for its 2026 Best Development Awards Program.
The annual awards program recognizes Iowa projects and programs that demonstrate thoughtful planning and reflect the connections between buildings, land, natural resources, development, and quality of life.
The program also highlights the organizations and individuals behind these efforts. Through its work promoting responsible land-use and smart growth principles, 1000 Friends of Iowa supports planning practices that help create thriving communities across the state.
Anyone can submit a nomination, including self-nominations, for a $25 fee. Nominations must be submitted by Friday, November 20.
Independent jurors will select winners in the following categories:
- New Civic
- Renovated Civic
- New Commercial
- Renovated Commercial
- Innovative Leadership
- Mixed Use
- Renewable Energy
- New Residential
- Renovated Residential
- Stormwater Management
- Transportation/Complete Streets
- Placemaking/Greenspace
Awardees will be recognized at a ceremony on January 19, 2027, in the Iowa State Capitol Rotunda during the 2027 legislative session. The ceremony provides an opportunity to highlight projects that demonstrate the positive impact of smart growth and sustainable development on Iowa communities and bring attention to these efforts among state lawmakers.
Nomination forms and additional information about the awards program are available at 1000friendsofiowa.org/our-programs/best-development-awards/.
1000 Friends of Iowa, founded in 1998, is a statewide non-profit organization focused on land-use education. Its mission is to unite Iowans in efforts to protect farmland and natural areas, revitalize neighborhoods, towns, and cities, and improve quality of life for future generations. Additional details about past winners and 1000 Friends of Iowa’s smart growth priorities can be found at 1000FriendsofIowa.org.
