Foundation Programs
The ABI Foundation has three core programs that help to develop Iowa’s workforce and leaders at every stage, from high school students to professionals.
Leadership Iowa
Leadership Iowa is a premier statewide issues-awareness program bringing together top Iowa professionals to learn about issues impacting the state in a way they never have before. With a goal to instill passion in our current and emerging leaders, Leadership Iowa allows participants to have a variety of experiences and build a new network of program participants that reaches across geographic, professional and economic lines.
Program participants attend one session each month from October–June (class observes a one-month winter break). Sessions take place in a different region of the state each month and is focused on a specific topic. Topics typically include government, agriculture, education, healthcare, economic development and other pertinent issues facing the state. Each session features presentations and discussions with acknowledged leaders and experts in their respective fields, along with activities and opportunities to network.
Participants must be nominated to apply and 40 applicants will be selected. The nomination deadline is April 1 for the upcoming class beginning in October; nominations collected after will be considered for the following year. Click below to nominate a business leader or learn more about the Leadership Iowa program.
Leadership Iowa University
Modeled after Leadership Iowa, Leadership Iowa University is a professional and personal development program for college student-leaders. Throughout their time in the program, participants are exposed to Iowa professionals by way of networking events, engaging round-table discussions, business visits and more. Students not only learn about issues facing the state, but also opportunities they never knew existed in Iowa.
Leadership Iowa University includes a fast-paced weeklong session in Des Moines and surrounding areas. Eligible candidates must be currently enrolled in an Iowa college/university (freshman-senior) or interning for an Iowa-based company the summer of their participation. Students pursuing any area of study or career interests are welcome.
Leadership Iowa University 2025 will be held August 3-7 in the Des Moines area. Learn more or nominate a student to attend this year using the buttons below.
Business Horizons
Business Horizons is a unique, action-packed week of teamwork, learning, and fun for high school students across the state of Iowa. The program offers students the opportunity to learn about the world of business from professionals and build upon their strengths through real-world experiences.
During the week, students are grouped into teams, or “Industries,” with the guidance of business professionals. They are challenged to develop a new business venture that solves a real-world problem that's important to them. Throughout the week, they take part in valuable workshops, hear from dynamic speakers, tour businesses, and work together toward culminating team competitions. Students continue to benefit from Business Horizons well beyond in high school.
Business Horizons 2025 will be held July 13-17 at Drake University in Des Moines. Learn more or nominate a student to attend this summer using the buttons below.
