DAVENPORT, Iowa — The state of Iowa is continuing to see growth in its small businesses, according to state officials.
Over the past seven years, there have been more than 2,000 small business fillings, which Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate is calling a success.
"You're looking at 279,932 incorporated active businesses in Iowa right now," Pate said. "We're seeing still some strong confidence... they're wanting to start their businesses and get out there and I think that's pretty special."
Over 99% of all businesses in Iowa are considered to be small businesses, according to Austin Strawhacker, associate state director for America’s Small Business Development Center Iowa. He added that they are "the backbone of our economy."
For one Davenport small business owner, she has seen the tremendous amount of support given to her and her store. Back in May, Amanda Frazer opened up Rosalee Jewelry — an idea she came up with after spending time in Chicago.
"I came back here to the Quad Cities to be with my family and decided it would be a great opportunity to open a jewelry store that is more private," Frazer said. "I had no idea that there would be other business owners that are rooting for you here and it makes you happy to see more businesses open up and join our family. I'm really lucky to have my business here in Davenport."
According to Secretary Pate, more than half of the state's small businesses are women-owned. He is hopeful that the growth will continue into next year and will contribute to more job opportunities for the state.