Greater Des Moines Partnership

Jenae Sikkink, Senior Vice President of Talent Development and Inclusive Strategies, has been named as an Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) 2025 40 Under 40 honoree which recognizes emerging leaders shaping the chamber of commerce industry. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gu2T3WKN

The countdown is on — Hide & Seek Ornaments You Keep begins TOMORROW across Greater Des Moines! From small-town squares to downtown neighborhoods, communities across the region are joining together to celebrate local art, support local businesses and spread holiday cheer. Each day through Sunday, Dec. 14, local artists will hide their handcrafted ornaments in easily accessible spots throughout participating communities. Every ornament is a one-of-a-kind keepsake — free to find and free to keep — encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore the places that make our region vibrant. This regional tradition also highlights the importance of supporting local. One ornament in each community includes a bonus gift card to a nearby business, creating even more connections between artists, shoppers and the small businesses that help our communities thrive. Follow along for daily updates, clues and artist spotlights, and make plans to visit communities throughout the region as the hunt continues! Learn more about all participating locations here: https://ow.ly/R8YX50XCaX3 Thank you to our sponsors for helping sprinkle a little extra cheer around region this holiday season: BRAVO Greater Des Moines, MidAmerican Energy Foundation, Prairie Meadows and Principal® Foundation. #DSMlocal #DSMUSA

Thank you to everyone who joined us at yesterday’s State Legislative Leadership Breakfast as we unveiled our 2026 State Policy Priorities We extend our appreciation to Daryl Bouwkamp, Vermeer Corporation, for his leadership as the 2025 Chair of The Partnership’s Government Policy Council (GPC). We also congratulate David Stark, UnityPoint Health, as he begins his term as the 2026 Chair. We also appreciate our legislative panel for sharing their insights: • Senate Majority Leader Mike Klimesh • Senate Minority Leader Janice Weiner • Representative Gary Mohr • House Minority Leader Brian Meyer View the 2026 state policy priorities: https://lnkd.in/gfTwN8qc

Today at our annual Legislative Leadership Breakfast, we introduced our 2026 State Policy Agenda — built in collaboration with our Government Policy Council, Investors and Regional Chamber Members. Featured priorities: • Economic Growth • Workforce Readiness • Housing As 2026 Government Policy Council Chair David Stark shared, our region succeeds when we move forward together. View the full Agenda here: https://lnkd.in/gfTwN8qc

Planning for the future? Greater Des Moines is a top choice! The region ranks in the Top 5 Most Affordable Cities for Retirement in 2025, according to Investopedia. Smart, sustainable living starts here. Read the full list here: https://lnkd.in/g55DrbTt

Greater Des Moines continues to stand out! DSM was ranked the #3 Best City for Gen Z Workers by Checkr for 2025. Opportunity, affordability and growth all in one place. Check out the full list here: https://ow.ly/GiZ650XARZZ

Women leaders across Central Iowa have a great opportunity to connect this week. The Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its Connecting for Women event this Thursday, featuring keynote speaker Amanda Zwanziger and a conversation centered on growth, purpose and leadership. It’s an opportunity join a space where women can learn from one another, build relationships and share experiences. If you’re planning to attend, you’ll also help celebrate longtime Grinnell Mutual leader Barb Baker as she heads into retirement. 📅 Thursday, Dec. 4 📍 Grinnell Mutual Conference Center Learn more and register here: https://lnkd.in/gm6DP7-N

The America's Cultivation Corridor's next webinar is right around the corner! Looking to stay up to date on what’s ahead in Iowa’s ag-bio and innovation sectors? “Ethanol to Sustainable Aviation Fuels: Advances in Renewable Fuels Innovation” takes place this Thursday, Dec. 4, and will feature expert perspectives and timely insights you won’t want to miss. Register now: https://lnkd.in/gfYEZq-S

Happy Thanksgiving from the Greater Des Moines Partnership! We’re grateful for our partners, investors and the entire Greater Des Moines community who work together to make this region a great place to live, work and grow. Wishing you a joyful and restful holiday.

Small Business Saturday is this weekend! It's a great reminder of how much local businesses contribute to the vibrancy and economic strength of Greater Des Moines. When you choose to shop local, your dollars are more likely to stay in the community and be reinvested in the region. That’s impact worth supporting. DSM Local offers tools to explore retail shops, coffee businesses, wellness providers and more, along with Affiliate Chamber directories that showcase unique communities across Greater Des Moines. It’s an easy way to discover hidden gems, support local entrepreneurs and find meaningful gifts for everyone on your list. Explore the DSM Local guides to plan out your holiday shopping this week: https://ow.ly/oS0F50XypPA