ABI’s Stability Among Economic Uncertainty

The Iowa Association of Business and Industry was founded by manufacturers more than 120 years ago. Since that time, ABI member companies have weathered many economic challenges. The people behind the member companies have also experienced major changes since their founding – increased regulations, modes of communication with customers, automation, and business transition to name a few. One thing we hear from our members repeatedly is the desire for certainty. Businesses can manage employee and inventory levels, can make capital expenditure decisions, and can forecast growth when there is certainty. Right now, Iowa businesses and Iowans are missing the certainty they desire.

This week in the business world, we have seen markets fluctuate drastically, additional tariffs announced and the end of the state legislative funnel. As businesses navigate and filter through the noise of what is happening in the political world, ABI is here for our members. Our weekly newsletter is titled “The Voice of Iowa Business.” We take that phrase seriously-not just in our publications but in how we represent you to our state legislators, Congressional delegation, the media, and the general public.

Here is how ABI supports stability for members through economic uncertainty:

• Listening. Hearing your concerns and needs and working to find solutions.
• 24/7 advocacy at the state capitol. More than 300 members developed the ABI 2025 policy positions. The experienced professional team of JD Davis and Brad Hartkopf spend hours understanding complex issues and educating lawmakers about the impact proposed legislation will have on Iowa employers and their employees. One example this year is related to prescription drug costs and the massive increase Iowans will face if the legislation advances. You can read more in our funnel update.
• A network of multi-state and national associations that share information and the impacts of other state legislative and congressional proposals. One recent example is the state-by-state resources published by the National Association of Manufacturers on trade. And the US Chamber of Commerce’s insight into the specifics of the reciprocal tariffs.
• Connecting members to resources and to one another to share best practices and facilitate potential business opportunities.
• Providing top-notch programming at the annual ABI conference that brings together entire leadership teams in one place to learn how to improve culture, think about recruiting the future workforce and understand opportunities to optimize cost savings.

ABI not only supports members by advocating for stability; ABI as an organization is stable. The ABI Board of Directors has positioned the association to weather challenges. The Association has a healthy cash position, new membership revenue is up over last year and event attendance in the first quarter of the calendar year is higher than last fiscal year.

However, there is room for improvement and growth. Although new member revenue is up, overall membership growth has been stagnant. We know times are challenging for some Iowa businesses but now is when members can realize the full value of their ABI investment. As ABI enters the last quarter of the fiscal year, I ask you to think of other Iowa businesses that could benefit from an ABI membership. Please reach out if you have recommendations of companies that should be involved.

ABI’s stability, strength and mission is because of our members. Regardless of market and political volatility, ABI has persevered. We are the Voice of Iowa Business, because we represent all of you. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to serve you and advocate for Iowa businesses.