Edited release
04/08/25
The Iowa Business Council has released its first-quarter Economic Outlook Survey (EOS) for 2025. The report measures IBC member expectations for sales, capital spending and employment for the next six months.
Much like the Creighton University Rural Business Index, the survey considers scores above 50 at positive growth and below as negative growth.
The survey’s overall economic outlook index is 57.14, a decrease of nearly 8 and a half points from the previous quarter and below the historical average of 60.41 signifying a moderating approach over the next six months.
Among those surveyed, the top primary business challenge was an unfavorable business climate, including supply chain issues, infrastructure and federal regulations. That was followed by inflation and workforce attraction and retention.
All three categories experienced declines compared to the 2024 fourth-quarter survey. The results were captured prior to the president’s April 2 tariff announcements.