Iowa's roots may be in agriculture, but the economy has evolved and diversified over the past 100 years. Iowa companies are leaders in information technology, life sciences, insurance/financial services and manufacturing.

Information Technology:
The Atanasoff-Berry Computer was the world's first electronic digital computer. It was built by John Vincent Atanasoff and Clifford Berry at Iowa State University during 1937-42. This information technology tradition is continued at more than 1300 Iowa companies. Pick a company in any number of technology areas-computers, engineering, education, research, finance, manufacturing, insurance, agribusiness, customer service, printing-and you will find new products and applications being developed.

Life Sciences:
No longer is agricultural research focused exclusively on the production of hybrid grain varieties. Today's research is leading to improved industrial products, better food supply, improved medicines and a cleaner environment. Iowa's universities and development centers have made more than $2 billion in technology investments in the state.

Insurance/Financial Services:
Des Moines is one of the largest insurance centers in the United States. Almost 40,000 Iowans are employed by the insurance industry and the sector has seen employment growth for over 20 years. Major insurance companies located in Des Moines include Allied Insurance (a member of Nationwide), Principal Financial Group, Wellmark Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Iowa and State Farm Insurance Company.

Manufacturing:
Products manufactured in Iowa are sold around the country and around the world. In 1999, the manufacturing sector employed over 260,000 people. During the 1990's, Iowa's manufacturing exports increased 59%. Products manufactured in Iowa but known around the country include Pella windows, Maytag and Amana appliances, and Rockwell Collins avionics equipment.