DES MOINES — The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) recently honored six exceptional housing projects, organizations and leaders through the annual HousingIowa Awards, presented at the 2026 HousingIowa Conference in Des Moines. From revitalizing a long-vacant Veterans Affairs campus to ensuring people who have experienced homelessness help shape housing decisions, this year’s recipients are advancing creative, community-driven solutions to Iowa’s housing needs.
The awards recognize programs, projects and professionals advancing creative solutions and expanding housing opportunities for Iowans. During the ceremony, the impact of their work was brought to life through personal stories shared by the Iowans and communities whose lives have been shaped by these efforts.
“These award winners exemplify what is possible when strong partnerships, innovative thinking and a shared commitment to action come together,” said Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Finance Authority and Iowa Economic Development Authority. “Their work is delivering real results for Iowans and moving us closer to our shared goal of meeting housing needs in every corner of our state.”
HousingIowa Awards are presented in six categories: Single-Family Development, Multifamily Development, Innovation, Special Needs Development, the Mark Sertterh Friend of Housing Award and the Kay Anderson Friend of Iowa Award. Nominations are accepted from across the state, and recipients are selected by a panel of judges.
Single-Family Development
Veteran’s District, Knoxville
City of Knoxville, Marion County and Origin Homes
The Veterans District transformed more than 150 acres of a long-vacant former Veterans Affairs campus into a growing residential neighborhood designed to address Knoxville’s rural housing needs. The City of Knoxville and Marion County invested more than $17 million to acquire and prepare the site, installing infrastructure and creating parks, trails and other community amenities.
All 34 Phase I lots have been sold and built, advancing a projected five- to 10-year buildout in just three years. Origin Homes helped accelerate that progress by committing to build 20 homes over four years through its Rural Housing Initiative. The development is expanding attainable homeownership, supporting workforce recruitment and providing a model for rural housing growth.
