Iowa Central Community College has named Anna Woodward as the new Regional Small Business Development Director for the North Central Iowa Small Business Development Center (NCI SBDC).
In her new role, Woodward will lead the regional SBDC and work directly with entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout north central Iowa, providing confidential, no-cost business counseling and connecting businesses with resources to help them start, grow and succeed.
The NCI SBDC serves businesses and entrepreneurs across 12 counties: Audubon, Buena Vista, Calhoun, Carroll, Greene, Guthrie, Hamilton, Humboldt, Pocahontas, Sac, Webster and Wright. Services include business planning, financial projections, accessing capital and financial assistance, marketing, human resources, permits and licensing, business transition and succession planning, and other individualized business support.
“I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to step into a role that aligns so closely with my background and passion for supporting small business” Anna Woodward shared. “I look forward to building meaningful partnerships, fostering innovative ideas, and helping create new opportunities for new and existing businesses across the Iowa Central region and beyond.”
Woodward brings experience in community and economic development, business support and regional outreach to the position. Before joining Iowa Central, she served as director of the Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce, where she worked to support local businesses, strengthen community partnerships and create opportunities for entrepreneurs. She joined Iowa Central in 2025 and has most recently served as Assistant Director of Economic Development, working with regional employers and community partners on workforce development and customized training initiatives.
Her work at Iowa Central has included partnerships with businesses across the region to address workforce needs and provide customized training. She has worked with employers on initiatives ranging from industrial and safety training to programs designed to strengthen employee skills and support business growth.
Shelly Blunk, Dean of Economic Development & Continuing Education is excited for Anna to step into this new role. “Anna will be an outstanding resource and partner for businesses and communities throughout our region. I am excited to see the relationships she builds and the positive impact she will have across the communities we serve.”
As Regional Small Business Development Director, Woodward will oversee the center’s operations, develop relationships with regional stakeholders and economic development organizations, identify emerging needs among small businesses, and develop workshops and educational opportunities to address those needs.
The NCI SBDC is part of the statewide Iowa SBDC network, which provides resources and support to entrepreneurs and small businesses across Iowa. Through Iowa Central, regional businesses can access individualized counseling and resources at no cost.