In an effort to attract new businesses, the City of Fayette has implemented a number of creative incentives in recent years. These efforts are beginning to pay off as three new businesses have opened their doors in beautiful downtown Fayette since January.
Fayette started a marketing incentive offering new businesses a reimbursement of up to $1,000 in marketing and advertising expenses. The city is also willing to hand out up to $20,000 for any new construction within the city limits. A low interest revolving loan fund is also available for businesses.
Crawford Creations was the first business to move into downtown Fayette and offers a variety of goods including handmade crafts, home décor, furniture, antiques, clothing, jewelry and more. A unique, locally owned ice cream and sandwich shop, the Sugar Bowl, opened shortly after. The Sugar Bowl has two other locations in Decorah, Iowa, and added its third location in downtown Fayette. The Visual Element, a marketing and advertising company specializing in graphic design and brand development, was the most recent business to relocate to the recently restored downtown area.
Fayette, with a population of around 1400, is home to Upper Iowa University, Klock’s Island Park and Campground and the new Fayette County Freedom Rock. Fayette continues to seek out opportunities to fill available downtown storefronts. Entrepreneurs looking for a great community to locate or expand their business can contact Kris McGrane, Fayette City Administrator, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 563-425-4316 to learn more.
(Left to right) Wanda Crawford and Fayette Mayor Andrew Wenthe. Wanda opened Crawford Creations in downtown Fayette in early 2021.
(Left to right) Nathan Todd, Brittany Todd and Fayette Mayor Andrew Wenthe. The Todd’s opened the Sugar Bowl in downtown Fayette in early 2021.
(Left to right) Fayette Mayor Andrew Wenthe and Amanda Pasket. Amanda opened The Visual Element in downtown Fayette in 2021.
