Leadership Iowa 2025-26 Nominations Due April 1

The deadline to nominate Iowans in your community for Leadership Iowa's 2025-26 class is fast approaching. Leadership Iowa is our state's premier issues-awareness program provided by the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) Foundation.

Forty Iowa leaders are selected annually to participate in the program, which begins in October and concludes in June. The group observes eight, two or three-day monthly sessions throughout the state. Each session provides class members with a wide range of first-hand insight exploring the opportunities and challenges facing Iowa within a variety of essential topics from agriculture and education to workforce, manufacturing, and more. The program provides resources for motivated Iowans to effect change within Iowa's organizations and communities. More than 1,400 Iowans have graduated from Leadership Iowa in its 43 years.

Each Leadership Iowa class is carefully selected to be representative of a wide variety of industries, professions, backgrounds, civic engagement, and geographic locations in our state, leading to more well-rounded discussions and connections drawn across industry and county lines. These invaluable connections often result in future collaboration and lasting friendships.

"Some of the greatest strengths of Leadership Iowa are the immediate access to a wealth of knowledge and support from fellow classmates. Whenever a question arises or I need information, I can reach out to any of my classmates at a moment's notice and receive thoughtful insights and connections," said Shea Greiner, 2023-24 participant and director of investor relations at Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress. "I've forged lasting relationships with incredible people I might never have met otherwise, relationships that have not only enhanced my professional journey but also enriched my personal life in profound ways. I highly recommend Leadership Iowa to anyone looking to expand their horizons, build meaningful connections, and grow both personally and professionally. The program has truly been a transformative experience for me."

Workplaces and communities across the state benefit from representation in the program, as the ideas and inspiration gained through their participants can often be applied locally in a number of ways. Leadership Iowa is one way that companies can retain talent and invest in the personal and professional development of their employees.

Nominations will be accepted through April 1 for the upcoming class, after which all nominees will be provided with application instructions and details. Self-nominations are allowed and encouraged. To nominate individuals and learn more about the program, visit www.LeadershipIowa.com.