News
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces 100 Categories for 5th Annual Best of the West Awards
WEST DES MOINES, IA (September 10, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced 100 categories for the annual Best of the West Awards. The Best of the West Awards is a West Des Moines-focused, community vote contest now featuring 100 categories. The award ceremony is set to take place on December 3, 2024, at the Rewind Hotel in West Des Moines. The WDM Chamber celebrated 50 award winners in previous years during the ceremony. In 2024, to mark its 100th anniversary, the WDM
DMU Faculty Member Appointed as Program Director and Department Chair of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Department and P.T. Clinics
WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/04/2024) After an extensive national search, the College of Health Sciences at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences has named Julie Ronnebaum, D.P.T., Ph.D., MPT, GCS-Emeritus, as the new program director and department chair of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program and P.T. clinics at Des Moines University Clinic. Ronnebaum, formerly the assistant director of the P.T. program, succeeds Traci Bush, D.P.T., D.H.S., MPT, OTR/L, after 19 years as program
Latino Trade Network to Host Lunch & Learn Focused on Building a Business Mindset September 25
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, August 27, 2024) – The Latino Trade Network (LTN) will host its upcoming Lunch & Learn event, “Mindset Power,” on September 25, 2024, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. hosted at R&R Realty Group’s Westfield campus. This dynamic session will provide valuable insights into harnessing the power of a positive mindset to drive personal and professional success. The event will provide attendees the opportunity to network with one another and learn from an esteemed panel of business and
DMU Students Participate in Summer Trip to Edinburgh
WEST DES MOINES, IA (08/26/2024) This summer, the Department of Global Health at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences piloted a new summer trip, "Critical Issues in Global and Public Health," in Edinburgh, Scotland, with Queen Margaret University. Ten DMU students participated in the program, including Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Students Natasha Andersen, Jessica Duffy, Sally Hazen, Hasmik Petrosyan, Nicholas Schany, Lexi Barp and Claire Loftus; Doctor of Podiatric Medicine student
Joseph Holloway Joins Local 5’s “Good Morning Iowa”
West Des Moines, Iowa – Local 5 announced today that Joseph Holloway joins “Good Morning Iowa” as anchor and executive producer. He brings more than a decade of experience in local broadcast news, from reporting and anchoring in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Raleigh, North Carolina. A sports fan, Holloway has also worked freelance in sports journalism for ESPN, CBS, and Cox Sports Television. Holloway has a passion for helping the community stay informed. He says, “People have a right to know
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces Speakers for August Luncheon: Building a World-Class Talent Pool in Iowa
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, August 6, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the speakers for its next luncheon set to take place on Thursday, August 15, featuring educational leaders across Iowa. The luncheon, presented by Shive-Hattery and supported by GYMGUYZ, will feature regional educational leaders who will share about building a world-class educational system, and potential growth opportunities to build and retain talent in our region. Participating in the
WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CLASS OF 2024-25 SELECTED
The leaders in the West Des Moines Chamber’s Leadership Academy are announced. WEST DES MONES, IA (JULY 30, 2024) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, has announced its 2024-2025 class. This nine-month program will guide emerging leaders on a path to leadership effectiveness through experiential learning, critical thinking, and a community impact project. “I am excited to welcome another outstanding group of leaders to this year’s WDMLA
2024 RECIPIENTS OF WDM CHAMBER DEI EXCELLENCE AWARDS ANNOUNCED
WEST DES MOINES, IA (TUESDAY, JULY 16, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is holding its fourth annual Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Workplace Excellence Awards presented by Chase Bank on September 10 from 4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Community Choice Convention Center. It will be a night full of learning, growing and celebrating the work being done to make Central Iowa more inclusive. Award recipients of 11 categories will be honored, have the chance to share their story to
WDM Chamber Invites Past YURtern Participants to Alumni Social
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, JUNE 25, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is inviting YURtern alumni to celebrate the YURtern program’s seventh year. Since 2017, more than 1,300 student interns have been part of the program. The YURtern Alumni Social is set to take place on July 10 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Spare Time Entertainment. Alumni are invited to network with the current participants and enjoy free food and entertainment. “YURtern forms such deep roots within the
Palmer Group Receives 2024 BBB Torch Award for Business Ethics
June 20, 2024 | West Des Moines, Iowa – Palmer Group receives a 2024 Torch Award for Ethics from the Better Business Bureau serving Greater Iowa. “Winning a Torch Award for Ethics is not only extremely exciting but also very humbling. At Palmer Group, we strive every day to earn the trust of every candidate and organization we have the pleasure of serving,” said President and CEO, David Leto. “We understand that trust is earned, not given. Receiving this recognition highlights what a great group of people
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
WDM CHAMBER AND CITY OF WEST DES MOINES SET TO HOST RACCOON RIVER PALOOZA ON JUNE 8
Cardboard Boat Race Registration Now Open; Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Announced as Headlining Musical Artist WEST DES MOINES, IA (May 14, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) and the City of West Des Moines will host the fourth annual Raccoon River Palooza presented by Superstorm Roofing & Siding on Saturday, June 8, 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,
West Des Moines Chamber Celebrates Dreamers, Innovators, and Trailblazers at Fourth Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, IA (May 1, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) reflects on the fourth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit (The Summit) Presented by Wells Fargo. The two-day event served as a platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities facing minority entrepreneurs. Through panel discussions, keynote speakers, the Pitch Competition, and networking sessions, the event empowered attendees to navigate barriers, access resources, and foster collaboration. The
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
New Dean of Osteopathic Medicine at Des Moines University
Accomplished physician, educator and visionary in osteopathic medicine to spearhead college's futureWEST DES MOINES, IA (04/25/2024) After an extensive national search, David Connett, D.O., has been appointed dean of the Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine, effective July 1, 2024. "An accomplished physician, educator and visionary in osteopathic medicine, Dr. Connett brings exceptional experience and qualifications to his new role. He is a recognized leader in osteopathic medicine
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
DMU President Franklin Receives CASE Chief Executive Leadership Award
WEST DES MOINES, IA (04/18/2024) Angela L. Walker Franklin, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, was honored April 16 with the 2024 Chief Executive Leadership Award for District VI of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education. The award recognizes an outstanding president, chancellor, headmaster or system head of a District VI CASE member institution for outstanding efforts in promoting and supporting education and institutional
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 2024 Citizen, Emerging Citizen of the Year
WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 16, 2024) – For the 79th consecutive year, the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) and the City of West Des Moines have announced the annual West Des Moines (WDM) Citizen and Emerging Citizen of the Year, Al Womble and Caitlin Clark. Womble, a 1994 graduate of Drake University, has been an influential figure in academia, labor, and community service. Womble excelled as a member of the football team and as a teacher's assistant before joining Laborers Local 353,
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
Various Health Services Available at Iowa Specialty-Des Moines Clinic
Des Moines, Iowa (March 25, 2024) – Iowa Weight Loss Specialists, a dedicated center for weight loss success in central Iowa, is conveniently located at the Iowa Specialty Hospital-Des Moines Clinic at 5901 Thornton Ave, Des Moines. Established in 2014, IWLS focuses on the diverse needs of their patients, offering weight loss services through both bariatric surgery and medical weight loss (non-surgical). Their patient-specific program includes the expertise of registered dietitians, behavioral health
Application Window Opens for Fourth Annual DEI Workplace Excellence Awards
WEST DES MOINES, IA (MONDAY, APRIL 2, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is excited to announce the commencement of the application period for both the award recipients and nonprofit donation recipients for the fourth annual Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Workplace Excellence Awards (DEI Awards). In the past three years of this community-driven initiative, over 90 nominations have been received and evaluated by a panel of community leaders. The stories of the selected recipients
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
RACCOON RIVER RALLY REBRANDED AS RACCOON RIVER PALOOZA IN COLLABORATION WITH THE CITY OF WEST DES MOINES
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 26, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced a change to one of its signature events. Beginning in 2024, the Raccoon River Rally will be rebranded as Raccoon River Palooza. This change reflects a new collaboration with the City of West Des Moines' "Park Palooza" event. Raccoon River Palooza aims to merge elements from both events, providing attendees with an experience celebrating outdoor recreation, culture, and community engagement. The
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
WDM Chamber Acknowledges Kara Matheson and Meredith Murphy for Human Resource Certification Achievement
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 7, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes Kara Matheson, VP of Workforce Development and Culture, and Meredith Murphy, Talent Attraction Manager for achieving certifications from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Kara Matheson has earned the SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional) designation, while Meredith Murphy has attained the SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) designation. These certifications, granted by the Society for Human
WDM Chamber Opens Applications for 2024 Citizen of the Year & Emerging Citizen of the Year
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Monday, March 4, 2024) – For the 79th consecutive year, the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the annual West Des Moines Citizen and Emerging Citizen of the Year nominations are now open through March 31, 2024. "This award stands as a testament to the longevity and prosperity of the City of West Des Moines," said Katherine Harrington, President & CEO of the WDM Chamber. "Amid our 100-Year Celebration in 2024, these recognitions hold heightened
Drake University Business Clinic Partners with Athene Black & Brown Business Summit to Offer Complimentary Tickets to Students
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 4, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced a partnership with the Drake University Business Clinic to offer an allotment of complimentary tickets to Iowa high school and college students to attend the 4th Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo hosted April 18-19, 2024 The Drake University Business Clinic will be recognized as a “Future Innovator Sponsor” of the event as a result of the partnership. Students can
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,
Palmer Group Announces Senior Leadership Changes
Palmer Group Announces Senior Leadership Changes March 4, 2024 | West Des Moines, Iowa – Palmer Group announced the promotion of three employee-owners. The newly created senior leadership positions are a part of the company’s realignment strategy and succession planning. “I’m very excited about the strategic planning we have been doing as an organization,” said David Leto, President and CEO. “All three of these leaders are tenured professionals and have had a tremendous impact on our
West Des Moines Chamber Announces Minority Business Expo for the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, IA (February 26, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber (WDM Chamber) announces the Minority Business Expo 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,” said Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the WDM Chamber. “We’re excited to provide a platform for minority business owners to thrive and connect.” Minority Business
WDM Chamber Reveals Mentor Lineup for 7th Annual Mentoring for Women Conference
WEST DES MONES, IA (February 21, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber (WDM Chamber) is pleased to announce the current lineup of mentors for its 7th Annual Mentoring for Women Conference presented by Wellabe, scheduled for March 8th, 2024, at the Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack, and Hotel. The Mentoring for Women Conference provides opportunities for women to gain insights and connections with industry leaders. Among the mentors scheduled to participate are: 72 Degrees – Stacy Daniels Advisory
Rock Valley, West Des Moines Physical Therapy Join Forces to Better Serve the Des Moines Metro Area
Rock Valley, West Des Moines Physical Therapy join forces to better serve the Des Moines metro area.Two clinics under the West Des Moines Physical Therapy umbrella have joined the Rock Valley Physical Therapy family and will continue to provide great care to those in and around West Des Moines, Iowa.West Des Moines Physical Therapy and Pleasant Hill Physical Therapy, will unite under the Rock Valley banner March 4, 2024.West Des Moines Physical Therapy is located at 3701 E.P. True Parkway, Suite 300, West
DAY OF KINDNESS PROCLAIMED AS FEBRUARY 23
WEST DES MOINES, IA (FEBRUARY 13, 2024) – The Governor of Iowa and Mayor of West Des Moines have proclaimed February 23, 2024 as “Day of Kindness.” This special occasion returns for a fourth year of impact after being created by the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce’s (WDM Chamber) Leadership Academy Alumni who were seeking a way to make a positive impact on the community. This day is all about finding ways to be intentional with acts of kindness. Community members looking for ways to participate are
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
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER ANNOUNCES SPEAKERS FOR FEBRUARY LUNCHEON: UPLIFTING A DIVERSE WORKFORCE - LGBTQ+ LEADERS
WEST DES MONES, IA (January 31, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced speakers for its February Luncheon: Uplifting A Diverse Workforce – LGBTQ+ Leaders presented by Bank Iowa, supported by Iowa Weight Loss Specialists, and featuring a nonprofit spotlight, West Des Moines Soccer Club. This event will feature a panel of influential leaders from five statewide LGBTQ+ nonprofit organizations, each dedicated to serving employees, neighbors, and the broader
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
R&R Realty Group Secures Top Rankings in the 2024 Business Record Book of Lists
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (January 22, 2024) – R&R Realty Group proudly announces its outstanding achievements in the highly regarded 2024 Business Record Book of Lists, again solidifying its position as a leader in the real estate industry. These rankings, determined through submissions encompassing square footage and employee metrics, showcase R&R Realty Group’s excellence across multiple categories. This publication is published annually as a definitive resource guide for business professions in Central
Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 22, 2024 CONTACT: Ernst_Press@ernst.senate.gov Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Lola’s Fine Hot SauceThroughout this Congress, Ranking Member Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties. RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Lola’s Fine Hot Sauce of Polk County. Throughout this Congress, Ranking Member Ernst plans to
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
The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Awards Ambassador of the Year and Runner-Up
WEST DES MOINES, IA (December 14, 2023) – The WDM Chamber has named Connie Blodgett as the 2023 Ambassador of the Year, with Charity Baird as the runner-up. Ambassadors play a crucial role in supporting the organization, contributing to member retention, and fostering community growth throughout the year. The Ambassador of the Year is determined by a point system based on engagement through events, member care calls, new member interactions, and monthly ambassador meetings.Named the 2023 Ambassador of the
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,
WDM CHAMBER ANNOUNCES SPEAKERS FOR THE JANUARY LUNCHEON: INSPIRE 2024
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has announced speakers for the January Luncheon: INSPIRE 2024, set to take place on Thursday, January 11 at the West Des Moines Marriott. This event is set to bring together top-tier speakers representing the region’s leading influencers and leaders, informing attendees across four key areas: sustainability, innovation, healthcare, finance, and inclusive leadership. Expert Speakers: HealthcareDr. Angela
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
Six Methods to Encourage Better Collaboration and Communication in Your West Des Moines, IA Small Business
Good collaboration and communication are essential for any business, but they're especially important for small businesses. When everyone is on the same page and working together toward a common goal, amazing things can happen. But when communication breaks down, it can have a ripple effect that negatively impacts every area of the business. Encouraging open communication and idea sharing, encouraging cross-team collaboration, not micromanaging people, seeking regular feedback from staff, using