The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) Board today approved awards to three projects in the state that are expected to create 142 jobs. Board spokesperson Tina Hoffman says the largest award of $500,000 in direct financial assistance, plus tax incentives, is going to Thesis Chemistry for a new biorefinery in the central Iowa town of Nevada.

“It’s an Ohio-based company that also has operations in Canada,” Hoffman said. “They are looking to move into Nevada to produce sustainable chemicals from a component of non-food agricultural biomass.” The project is expected to create 130 jobs. The board also approved tax incentives for BoDeans Cone Company, based in LeMars, for an expansion project.

The manufacturer produces nearly 700 million cones a year for dairy clients, including Wells Dairy, also based in LeMars. BoDeans plans to add nine jobs with the 15,000 square foot addition.

The board also approved awards to Wacker Chemical in Eddyville. Hoffman said the $150,000 in direct financial assistance, plus tax incentives, will help with an expansion expected to create three jobs and retain 17.

Radio Iowa