News
Iowa Restaurant Association Launches Iowa Latino Hospitality Council to Support Growing Demographic
June 14, 2024 (West Des Moines, IA)— Today, nearly 10 percent of Iowa restaurants are owned and operated by Hispanic restaurateurs. In a significant effort to better engage with this growing demographic, the Iowa Restaurant Association has announced the launch of the Iowa Latino Hospitality Council. This new standalone charitable organization is dedicated exclusively to addressing the unique needs of this vital segment of Iowa’s hospitality industry. “Most of Iowa’s Latino hospitality business owners are
WELLABE WINS AWARD IN THE 45TH ANNUAL TELLY AWARDS
DES MOINES, Iowa – In recognition of excellence for its brand video, Wellabe has received a silver Telly Award in the category of 2D Animation – Branded Content. As the world’s largest honor for video and television across all screens, the 45th Annual Telly Awards set a record with more than 13,000 entries from across the globe. Winners were selected by leaders from video platforms, television, streaming networks, and production companies. Other 2024 winners include Adobe, ESPN, and NASA.Wellabe’s brand
WEST BANK WINS TWO COMMUNICATOR AWARDS FOR IT’S NEW VIDEO, “STANDING STRONG”
DES MOINES, Iowa – The Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts has named West Bank as a winner of an Award of Excellence (Financial Services) and an Award of Distinction (Corporate Image) for the bank’s new video, STANDING STRONG, during their 30th Annual Communicator Awards event in New York. This video, narrated by actor Robert Picardo (Star Trek: Voyager), tells the over 130-year story of West Des Moines’ oldest existing business. Since its simple beginnings on the muddy streets of Valley Junction in
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION WORKPLACE EXCELLENCE AWARDS REGISTRATION OPEN
WEST DES MOINES, IA (TUESDAY, MAY 28, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is thrilled to announce the opening of event registration for the fourth annual Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Workplace Excellence Awards (DEI Awards). With live entertainment, laughs, tears, uplifting messages, and a spirit of community, this is not your average awards event. Award applications will be closing on June 14 for this community-driven event. Over 90 nominations have been received in previous
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Partners with Habitat for Humanity to Commemorate 100-Year Anniversary
WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 30, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces its partnership with Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity in celebration of the WDM Chamber's 100-Year Anniversary. This landmark collaboration marks a significant milestone in the WDM Chamber's history, showcasing a commitment to community development and service. The WDM Chamber and Habitat for Humanity are partnering to renovate a century-old home in the Valley Junction area, aiming to raise
West Des Moines Chamber Announces Pitch Competition Winners for Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 19, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of the 2024 Pitch Competition Presented by Bank of America for the fourth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Presented by Wells Fargo. The event was held at the corporate headquarters of Athene in West Des Moines, Iowa on April 18-19. For the 2024 event, more than 100 applications were received from across the U.S., including several from Iowa. Seven finalists were chosen in early April to
West Des Moines Chamber Uplifts Minority Businesses at Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 16, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces that 17 diverse vendors will participate in the Minority Business Expo sponsored by Elevate by Principal and Holmes Murphy Group Companies for the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit on April 18, 2024, at Smash Park from 6-8 p.m. “The Minority Business Expo represents our commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within our business community,” says Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the
WDM Chamber Announces Recipient of the 2024 Mel Essex Award
WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 11, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced Blanca Plascencia, Co-owner of El Fogon, as the recipient of the 2024 Mel Essex Award. Plascencia will be honored at the fourth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo on April 19 at 4 p.m. The event will be held April 18-19 at the corporate headquarters of Athene at 7700 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, Iowa. The Mel Essex Award honors business and Iowa community
WDM Chamber Opens Registration for YURtern Summer Intern Program
WEST DES MOINES, IA (APRIL 2, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces the opening of registration for its YURtern Summer Intern program. YURtern (which stands for "It’s Your Turn" combined with "intern,"), now in its seventh year, offers opportunities for young professionals to gain insights from industry experts on networking, interviewing, and achieving success in their careers. Graduates of the program have gone on to become influential leaders in the community, with
WDM Chamber Announces Keynote Speakers for Fourth Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 19, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has revealed the keynote speakers for the fourth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit, presented by Wells Fargo. Taking place on April 18-19 at the corporate headquarters of Athene (7700 Mills Civic Pkwy) in West Des Moines, Iowa, the event will provide insightful discussions and multiple networking opportunities for all attendees.Over 70 expert speakers and panelists from around the country will be featured
WDM Chamber Introduces Civic Connect to Enhance Business Advocacy
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 18, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has announced the ongoing initiatives of its Government Affairs Committee, Civic Connect. This committee is dedicated to fostering education, engagement, and encouragement among its members, emphasizing the importance of active participation in civic affairs. Civic Connect is a nonpartisan group of leaders bridging the gap between the business community, local government, and the wider West Des Moines community. Their goal
Announcement of 2024 Pitch Competition Finalists: Bank of America Presents Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 12, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced seven finalists for the 2024 Pitch Competition presented by Bank of America at the fourth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo. The event is held at the corporate headquarters of Athene at 7700 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, Iowa on April 18-19.Seven finalists were chosen from a pool of over 100 applicants from across the United States. These finalists will each
Turner Growth Results in Office Relocation & Expansion
Des Moines, IA: Turner Construction, a leading construction management company, is thrilled to announce the relocation and expansion of its Iowa office. The office, which serves as the home-base for 300+ of Turner's Iowa-based employees, will now be situated at 4200 Corporate Drive in West Des Moines.Turner is spearheading the design-build efforts for an 8,000+ SF comprehensive renovation of the space, with an estimated completion date set for the summer of 2024.To commemorate this significant milestone,
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PROMOTES TOM FLORIAN TO VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIP AND STRATEG
WEST DES MONES, IA (February 7, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the promotion of Tom Florian, MBA to Vice President of Membership and Strategic Marketing. Florian will expand his responsibilities in member acquisition and retention, developing sales strategies for the organization, and directing the WDM Chamber’s strategic marketing initiatives."Tom has been an exceptional leader at the West Des Moines Chamber since day one. In his nearly three-year tenure, he's
West Des Moines Chamber Extends Deadline for Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition Applications
WEST DES MONES, IA (February 1, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is extending the application period for the 2024 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit pitch competition, presented by exclusive pitch competition partner Bank of America. Applications will be accepted until Saturday, February 10, 2024, by 11:59 p.m. “It is our commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity in entrepreneurship, this extension aims to provide more opportunities for minority-owned businesses,” said
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
WEST DES MOINES, IA (JANUARY 31) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce the opening of applications for the 2024-25 program. The West Des Moines Leadership program is designed to help aspiring leaders develop their leadership skills and capabilities to make a positive impact on the community. The Leadership Academy is an intensive nine-month program that provides participants with practical training, hands-on
Hy-Vee Becomes Joint Owner of Exemplar Care
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (Jan. 30, 2024) — Hy-Vee, Inc. announces today that it has become a joint owner of Exemplar Care as it works to bring more affordable primary care and urgent care services to Iowa patients and employers. Under the agreement, Exemplar Care medical clinics will be renamed to Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care, offering direct primary care and 24/7 urgent care (where available). Locations are currently open in West Des Moines, Ankeny and soon Bondurant, Iowa. These clinics will be managed by
WDM Chamber Opens Registration for 4th Annual Athene Black and Brown Business Summit Presented by Wells Fargo
WEST DES MONES, IA (January 17, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) opens registration for the 4th Annual Athene Black and Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo.Set to take place on Thursday, April 18th, and Friday, April 19th, this event promotes diversity, inclusion, and empowerment in the local, statewide, and national minority business community. It offers practical discussions, dynamic speakers, workshops, and networking. The theme for this year is Dreamers,
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES 2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced its 2024 Board of Directors, a diverse group of leaders that will guide, serve, and shape the WDM Chamber and West Des Moines community. “Our 2024 Board of Directors are made up of key leaders in our city and region who represent a wide range of industries and businesses from small, medium, and large.” said Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce.
WDM Chamber of Commerce announces the 7th Annual Regional Mentoring for Women event presented by Wellabe
WEST DES MONES, IA (January 11, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) along with the Clive Chamber of Commerce announces the seventh annual Mentoring for Women event presented by Wellabe, taking place on March 8, 2024, at Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino. This event provides a unique opportunity for women in Central Iowa to learn from top leaders in the region through fast and focused coaching sessions and learning activities.“This annual event offers a distinctive opportunity for
The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces Celebration of 100 Years
WEST DES MONES, IA (January 3, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces its celebration of 100 years in 2024, marking a century of growth, collaboration, and prosperity for the city of WDM. The milestone year will highlight the organization's commitment to its members, the strength of the local business community, and the spirit of innovation that has continued its success since 1924.Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the WDM Chamber, expressed her enthusiasm for 2024,
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Launches Visionary Leaders Forum in Honor of its 100th Anniversary in 2024
WEST DES MOINES, IA (TUESDAY, JANUARY 2, 2024) - The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber), a pillar of the business community, is proud to announce the launch of the Visionary Leaders Forumin collaboration with thePrincipal® Financial Network of Central Iowa. The Visionary Leaders Forum is a prestigious gathering of top CEOs and thought leaders poised to shape the future of business and innovation within our community and beyond. This initiative is part of the WDM Chamber's commemoration of
2024 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition Now Accepting Applications
WEST DES MOINES, IA (December 12, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications starting Tuesday, December 12 for the 2024 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit pitch competition, brought to you by exclusive pitch competition partner Bank of America. The application submission deadline is Wednesday, January 31, 2024, by 5 p.m. “Bank of America Iowa is honored to again partner with the West Des Moines Chamber to showcase emerging businesses in our community,” said Annie Brandt,
WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE THIRD ANNUAL BEST OF THE WEST AWARDS
WEST DES MONES, IA (FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the community vote winners of the Third Annual Best of the West Awards presented by Aureon. The Best of the West Awards is a West Des Moines-focused, community vote contest featuring 50 categories. A list of all 50 winners can be found at www.wdmchamber.org/best-of-the-west. "Congratulations to these outstanding businesses, organizations, and community leaders," said Katherine Harrington,
WDM Chamber to Host November Luncheon: Nonprofit Spotlight
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) will host the upcoming November Luncheon: Nonprofit Spotlight, presented by Bank Iowa on November 9. The luncheon will highlight the work of 25 nonprofit organizations in our community and each organization will have the opportunity to share insights about their cause."The Nonprofit Spotlight luncheon is a powerful reminder of the incredible impact our local nonprofits have on our community,” said
The WDM Chamber Announces the 3rd Annual Raccoon River Rally Presented by Superstorm Restoration
WEST DES MONES, IA (September 26, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce will host the 3rd Annual Raccoon River Rally presented by Superstorm Restoration on Saturday, October 14, at Raccoon River Park. This event is free to the community and will feature a variety of local food truck vendors, a family fun zone, cardboard boat races, live music, exhibitors, and more. “As we approach the 3rd Annual Raccoon River Rally, we look forward to bringing our community together for another memorable day of
Lay a Strong Foundation for Your Des Moines Business's 2023
The fourth quarter is upon us, which means it's time to start wrapping up the year and preparing for the next one. For small businesses, that means taking stock of what you've accomplished this year, setting new goals for next year, and planning your holiday marketing strategy. It also means reviewing your inventory, accounting, and tax paperwork, as well as making sure your website and social media profiles are up to date. From the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, here's a rundown of what you need to