Business Monthly

Cover Story

Aug 8, 2024

Developing Iowa's Talent Pipeline
Jul 15, 2024

Iowa CEO Survey: Talent Recruitment Biggest Concern
May 9, 2024

Iowa Tourism: Economic Impact, Quality of Life, and Oh Yeah…FUN!
Apr 8, 2024

QC Business Leaders Excited to Host ‘Getting Down to Business’
Mar 11, 2024

Miller Products’ Core Strengths Endure
Feb 19, 2024

Physician Recruitment, Workforce Lead Healthcare Challenges
Jan 15, 2024

ABI Survey: Cautious Optimism As 2024 Begins
Dec 4, 2023

Workforce Boosts, Tort, Regulatory, Tax Reforms Top 2023 Accomplishments
Nov 7, 2023

Iowa Agriculture Feeds the World
Oct 9, 2023

Private-public partnerships making a difference in Iowa
Sep 11, 2023

Manufacturing Packs Punch in Iowa’s Economy
Jul 24, 2023

Financial Firms Thrive in Business-Friendly Iowaestate
Jun 12, 2023

ABI CEO Survey Reveals Cautious Optimism Among Leaders
May 8, 2023

Iowa’s Construction Industry Sees Opportunities and Challenges
Apr 10, 2023

Experts Agree: Iowa’s Business Climate is Improving
Mar 13, 2023

Taking Care of Business Conference Showcases Top Speakers, Workshops, Cedar Rapids’ Resilience
Feb 13, 2023

Iowa Multi-Generation Companies are Built to Last
Jan 16, 2023

ABI to Build on Successes of 2022 Legislative Session

As usual, David Bywater will be paying close attention to the Iowa Legislature’s 2023 session that opened Jan. 9.
Dec 8, 2022

New Year's Resolutions for Your Business
Nov 11, 2022

Showing Gratitude in Business
Oct 14, 2022

Elections in Iowa

The importance of businesses encouraging civic engagement
Sep 9, 2022

Iowa Manufacturing: How the industry is faring and ideas for the future
Aug 12, 2022

Successful Succession: Considering the ESOP
Jul 15, 2022

The State of Play for the Food Manufacturing Industry
Jun 13, 2022

Taking Stock of Where We Stand Amid Many Challenges

It’s no secret that businesses everywhere are feeling pressure right now.
May 13, 2022

Trends in Iowa Education
Apr 8, 2022

Solutions for Iowa's Evolving Workforce

Iowans have long been known for their diligence, strong work ethic and smart problem-solving skills.
Mar 10, 2022

Taking Care of Business Conference in 'Key City' in 2022
Feb 11, 2022

Comeback from COVID

Iowa Businesses Optimistic About 2022
Jan 14, 2022

Improving Competitiveness: Legislature Looks to Tax Reform

For each of the last several years, Iowa policymakers have begun the work of improving the state’s competitiveness.
Dec 10, 2021

Holiday Gift Giving - Iowa Style
Nov 12, 2021

Grateful: Showing Gratitude in Business
Oct 8, 2021

Responding to the Storm: How Iowa Utilities Reacted to the Derecho
Sep 10, 2021

Iowa's Ongoing Manufacturing Workforce Shortage
Aug 13, 2021

Shaping Iowa's Leaders of Tomorrow
Jul 9, 2021

Lessons in Business Growth
Jun 9, 2021

Iowa Businesses Show Resilience During Pandemic

An Iowa Economic Development Authority survey in February of 813 companies showed that 297 reported plans to expand, with $2.62 billion in capital investments scheduled and the creation of 3,941 new jobs.
May 14, 2021

What A Ride

Iowa's transportation industry sees growth despite infrastructure, pandemic challenges.
Apr 9, 2021

Bridging Iowa's Digital Divide
Mar 11, 2021

Taking Care of Business Conference

ABI is moving forward with plans to host its annual Taking Care of Business Conference in June as an in-person event.
Feb 12, 2021

Employers Innovate to Tackle Iowa's Child Care Challenges

Employers are increasingly creating new solutions to keep employees working and engaged.
Jan 8, 2021

Dollars and Cents

Leaders set priorities for the 2021 legislative session.
Dec 11, 2020

Holiday Giving Spirit

Here's how these Iowa businesses show thanks.
Nov 13, 2020

Human Connection

Here's how mentoring increases engagement, purpose and retention.
Oct 9, 2020

Fostering an Engaged Electorate in the Workplace

One of the ways to build healthy communities is through public policy.
Sep 11, 2020

Breaking the Manufacturing Ceiling

Several Deere factories in Iowa are run by women.
Sep 11, 2020

Perseverance During a Challenging Time

Two industry leaders in the state share insights about their businesses as Manufacturing Day 2020, which is on Oct. 2 this year, draws near.
Aug 14, 2020

Iowa Business Leaders Weigh in on the Importance of Business in Education

Leaders in Iowa’s manufacturing and construction sectors say business participation in education is vital to the state’s economy and future.
Jul 9, 2020

All in the Family

Iowa business owners weigh in on succession.
Jun 5, 2020

COVID-19 Crisis

Learn how Iowa businesses have coped during the pandemic.
May 8, 2020

Hometown Health

There are big challenges and opportunities facing rural hospitals and care.
Apr 10, 2020

The Business of Sustainability

Here's how these Iowa companies tackle green initiatives.
Mar 13, 2020

An Iowa Success Story

After historic floods, Cedar Rapids has improved, boasts plans for the future.
Feb 14, 2020

All Sides of Workforce

Training, recruiting and retention work together in finding quality employees.
Jan 10, 2020

2020 Legislative Preview

Iowa legislators share their agendas for the upcoming session.
Dec 13, 2019

2020 Here We Come

ABI members give insight on trends, projections for the new year.
Nov 8, 2019

Stories of Thanks: ABI Members Share Their Business Blessings

Iowa business leaders share what they're most thankful for in their professional lives.
Oct 11, 2019

ABI Writes: Members Author Books to Better Themselves and Help Other Business Leaders

ABI members authored books to better themselves and help other business leaders.
Sep 13, 2019

The State of Manufacturing

As National Manufacturing Day draws near, Iowa companies reflect on the industry.
Aug 9, 2019

Connection Iowa: The Future of Telecom, Energy and Water Infrastructure

Leaders in these businesses have to anticipate people’s needs to ensure the state’s most important systems work properly and effectively.
Jul 12, 2019

The Joys of Iowa Summers: The State’s Places, Products and Events Perfect for the Warmer Months

It’s officially summertime, and you don’t have to look too far in Iowa to find a pastime that appeals to your tastes.
May 10, 2019

Law and Business: How the Judicial System is Vital to How Iowa Companies Operate

Business and the legal system are intricately intertwined.
Apr 12, 2019

Empowering Rural Iowa: Initiatives Aim to Grow Iowa’s Small Communities

There are many business and community leaders across the state who see rural Iowa as essential to the state’s economic vitality
Mar 8, 2019

Building Bosses: Iowa Companies Drive Workforce Development, Advocacy

Through high school programs, community colleges and mentorship, Iowa companies have made leadership development a primary focus in their business plans. And their reason isn’t just for the good for their organizations — it’s also for the good of Iowa.
Feb 8, 2019

More than a College Town: Ames Boasts Growth, Entrepreneurial Spirit in Business Community

Ames will have a chance to show off its growth and amenities at the Taking Care of Business Conference, which runs from June 4 to June 6.
Jan 11, 2019

A New Slate: Iowa Businesses Lay Out Priorities for the 2019 Legislative Session

The 2019 legislative session is fast approaching — the first day is Jan. 14 — and businesses and politicians are gearing up for a fresh five-month decision-making stretch.
Dec 14, 2018

Healthcare in Iowa: Rising Prices Lead Employers to Find Cost-effective, Comprehensive Measures

As employers continue to use health care as a key benefit to attract and retain a quality employee base, the rising costs have become burdensome for both employer and employee.
Nov 9, 2018

Vermeer Strong: How the Pella-based Company Recovered, Rebuilt in the Face of Destruction
Oct 12, 2018

A Path to an Informed Electorate: Employers and Associations Work Together to Educate Employees and Voters

Learn why it's important for employers to educate employees on political candidates and policies at the local, state and federal level.
Sep 14, 2018

The Times Keep A-Changing: Newer Technologies Continue to Affect How Business is Done

Read how newer technologies continue to affect how business is done in Iowa.
Aug 10, 2018

It Runs in the Family: A Look at Some of Iowa's Multigenerational Family Businesses

Much like the small towns that define Iowa, family-owned businesses started by visionary entrepreneurs have a rich history in the state.
Jun 1, 2018

Iowa Businesses Carve Out Global Opportunities, Look at the Future

Businesses all across the globe are becoming more connected, and Iowa businesses are playing an important role in that global picture.
May 11, 2018

A Sense of Community: What Makes Iowa a Great Place for Manufacturers?

What makes Iowa a great place to do business and live, and what are some of the challenges for the future?
Apr 13, 2018

Staying on Top of Trends: Iowa Leaders Read, Listen to Sharpen Skills

These Iowa leaders use books and podcasts to sharpen their skills and learn the newest and best ways to lead.
Mar 9, 2018

Iowa's Infrastructure: State Provides Many Transportation Options for Businesses

Iowa’s infrastructure is unique in comparison with surrounding states and across the nation.
Feb 9, 2018

A Shared Identity: Eastern Iowa Unites to Create Creative Corridor

After a devastating flood in 2008 forced communities to look inward to rebuild, business leaders in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and surrounding areas banded together to help create a unified brand for the region. Here is their story.
Jan 12, 2018

Top Priorities: Business Owners, Legislators Weigh in on 2018 Session

Business owners and legislators both hope the 2018 Iowa legislative session can tackle several key issues that they believe will make it easier and more attractive to conduct business in the state.
Dec 8, 2017

Working together: Companies, Iowa schools mutually benefit from partnerships

Colleges and universities and their students benefit just as much from the partnerships as the companies.
Nov 10, 2017

Companies Put Employees First, Enhance Work Life

Workplace culture is critical to the success of these companies.
Oct 13, 2017

Manufacturing Remains Strong in Iowa

Manufacturing is critical to Iowa’s economy. So much so that former Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad earlier this year declared 2017 as the year of manufacturing in Iowa.
Sep 8, 2017

Iowa companies learn how data can help drive their business

Business owners are in a world where they can learn the tiniest of details about their customers’ habits, their employees’ whereabouts and how their machines and equipment—even their lightbulbs—operate. And that’s only the tip of the iceberg.
Aug 11, 2017

Rethinking shop & trade classes

It’s partnerships such as these that have updated Iowa’s shop and industrial arts classes in many school districts across the state and given students the equipment to develop the skills they need to become the next generation of skilled workers.
Jul 14, 2017

Global Growth: How Iowa companies find success abroad

Iowa companies have found great success both at home and abroad, and as the global economy continues to grow and expand, look for more of the state’s companies to increase their international footprint.
Jun 9, 2017

A Culture of Corporate Giving

Many Iowa companies believe they have a responsibility to give back to the communities and employees who help them succeed.
In fact, more than half of Iowa executives say philanthropy plays a significant role in their company’s overall culture and vision, according to the results of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry’s (ABI) 2017 CEO survey.
May 12, 2017

Q/A with Kellan Longenecker, General Mills

As part of ABI's Women in Manufacturing feature, we conducted Q/A's with women who've pursued careers in this important industry and are helping introduce younger generations to manufacturing.
May 12, 2017

Q/A with Joni Campidilli, Percival Scientific, Inc.

As part of ABI's Women in Manufacturing feature, we conducted Q/A's with women who've pursued careers in this important industry and are helping introduce younger generations to manufacturing.
May 12, 2017

Q/A with Mary Andringa, Vermeer

As part of ABI's Women in Manufacturing feature, we conducted Q/A's with women who've pursued careers in this important industry and are helping introduce younger generations to manufacturing.
May 12, 2017

Women in Manufacturing

Manufacturing for years had been viewed as a dirty, tough job that was primarily for men.
That image has changed with advancements in technology, safer working conditions, and marketing to attract both youth and women to the industry.
Several women are at the helm of major manufacturing facilities in Iowa and have helped transform the image of the industry from once a “man’s world.”
Apr 14, 2017

Reviving Main Street: How rural Iowa stays relevant

Progressive, innovative and forward-thinking are characteristics commonly used to describe Iowa’s small towns that are vibrant and thriving.
Jefferson, Charles City and Le Mars are three of these smaller communities that have taken a holistic approach to ensuring they have a strong future.
Mar 10, 2017

Industry leaders flying under the radar

Some of the most successful companies in Iowa excel at what they do but often choose to be a silent partner that remains behind the scenes.
Feb 10, 2017

A Love Story: Meet Iowa couples who've found success in love and business

They work side by side most days and have used their marital and professional union to build successful businesses that prosper through each partner’s strengths. Here are the stories of three Iowa couples who have found triumph in business, but most importantly love.
Jan 18, 2017

Education's Impact

Northeast Iowa’s educational institutions have played a key role in the growth and redevelopment of Dubuque and northeast Iowa over the past two-plus decades. The area has a multitude of higher educational institutions that have proved to be integral partners with area businesses, and the area continues to grow.
Jan 13, 2017

What does it mean to live and work in Dubuque?

What does it mean to live and work in Dubuque? The Iowa Association of Business and Industry asked native Dubuquers and longtime business leaders what makes the area such a special place.
Jan 13, 2017

Rediscovering Dubuque and Northeast Iowa

A focus on current businesses and strategic growth combined with increased educational opportunities and strong, dedicated private and public partnerships has created a vibrant and diverse Dubuque-area economy. The area has done a complete turnaround from the days in the 1980s when it had one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation with more than 20 percent of people out of work.
Nov 11, 2016

Doing Business in Iowa: How Iowa Ranks

Iowa is a top place in the country to operate a business, to affordably live and for quality of life amenities, according to recent national rankings, but there are several areas in which the state can do better in order to ensure it has an adequate workforce and the resources needed to start new businesses and expand others.
Oct 14, 2016

A Go-to Election Resource: iavotes.com

The Iowa Association of Business and Industry has partnered with BIPAC to provide an important resource, www.iavotes.com, where Iowa voters can research and learn more on where candidates and elected officials stand on issues important to Iowa employees, industry sectors and consumers.
Oct 14, 2016

3 Weeks, 3 Ways to Engage Your Employees

Many Iowans have already cast ballots in this important election, but there is still plenty of time to reach employees and voters who are on the fence about voting.
Sep 9, 2016

Sustainability Profile: Hy-Vee

In May 2015, Hy-Vee, Inc. implemented a food waste diversion program as part of its overall sustainability efforts. Most of its 110 Iowa stores and 35,000 employees participate in the program.
Sep 9, 2016

Building Efficiency, Eliminating Waste

Iowa energy companies are at the forefront of doing their part to reduce their carbon footprint, and to protect the environment and preserve natural resources with the production of renewable sources of energy and the creation of more trails and other green spaces.
Aug 11, 2016

Partners in Education: Working together to address Iowa's workforce challenge

Iowa’s business community and educational institutions have created new relationships and partnerships to ensure students and workers have the training and skills necessary to fill high-demand jobs in the state.
Jul 8, 2016

SOS: Business risks that aren't on your radar but should be

One key component to running a successful business is identifying potential risks and finding ways in which to manage them.
Jun 9, 2016

2016 CEO Survey: Workforce, health care are top priorities

Access to an adequate, well-trained workforce, along with the increase in health care costs, has the biggest effect on Iowa businesses, according to the results from the Iowa Association of Business and Industry’s 2016 CEO Survey.
May 13, 2016

Amazing Innovation: How technology is changing the manufacturing landscape

Advances in technology are giving Iowa’s manufacturing engineers the ability to design and make new products never before possible or, in some cases, even imagined.
Apr 8, 2016

Business Gurus: To whom do Iowa leaders turn for advice?

Being in charge of a company or business can mean overseeing employees, filling job positions, managing budgetary information and, in general, having many more responsibilities.
Mar 18, 2016

Cybersecurity

A cybersecurity breach in 2014 that jeopardized the personal information of up to 70 million Target shoppers was a wake-up call for retailers and financial institutions about the importance of data protection.
However, large companies aren’t the only victims of cyberattacks.
Feb 12, 2016

New Year Means New ACA Reporting Requirements

The start of a new year means businesses must meet benefit requirements and tax reporting obligations tied to the Affordable Care Act.
Jan 8, 2016

Iowa Caucuses: Top Issues Facing Business

As Iowans prepare to caucus next month, business leaders throughout the state are working to keep business issues front of mind.
Jan 8, 2016

Three ways to engage your employees in three weeks

The Iowa caucuses are three weeks away, which is plenty of time to launch a get-out-the-vote effort with your employees.
Jan 8, 2016

On caucus night, stick around after the presidential vote

Selecting a presidential candidate is the most highly anticipated activity on caucus night, but there are other important party activities voters should take part in.
Aug 14, 2015

Recruiting Veterans: A smart tactical maneuver

When Josh White accepted a summer help position at Agri-Industrial Plastics in Fairfield after high school, he never imagined he would still be working for the company 12 years later.
White joined the National Guard when he was 17 and served for 10 years, including a yearlong deployment to Iraq in 2005.
He and his boss, Agri-Industrial President Lori Schaefer-Weaton, agree the skills he learned in the military have positioned him well for a leadership role on the manufacturing floor.

Business Monthly

Cover Story

Developing Iowa's Talent Pipeline

Iowa CEO Survey: Talent Recruitment Biggest Concern

Iowa Tourism: Economic Impact, Quality of Life, and Oh Yeah…FUN!

QC Business Leaders Excited to Host ‘Getting Down to Business’

Miller Products’ Core Strengths Endure

Physician Recruitment, Workforce Lead Healthcare Challenges

ABI Survey: Cautious Optimism As 2024 Begins

Workforce Boosts, Tort, Regulatory, Tax Reforms Top 2023 Accomplishments

Iowa Agriculture Feeds the World

Private-public partnerships making a difference in Iowa

Manufacturing Packs Punch in Iowa’s Economy

Financial Firms Thrive in Business-Friendly Iowaestate

ABI CEO Survey Reveals Cautious Optimism Among Leaders

Iowa’s Construction Industry Sees Opportunities and Challenges

Experts Agree: Iowa’s Business Climate is Improving

Taking Care of Business Conference Showcases Top Speakers, Workshops, Cedar Rapids’ Resilience

Iowa Multi-Generation Companies are Built to Last

ABI to Build on Successes of 2022 Legislative Session

New Year's Resolutions for Your Business

Showing Gratitude in Business

Elections in Iowa

Iowa Manufacturing: How the industry is faring and ideas for the future

Successful Succession: Considering the ESOP

The State of Play for the Food Manufacturing Industry

Taking Stock of Where We Stand Amid Many Challenges

Trends in Iowa Education

Solutions for Iowa's Evolving Workforce

Taking Care of Business Conference in 'Key City' in 2022

Comeback from COVID

Improving Competitiveness: Legislature Looks to Tax Reform

Holiday Gift Giving - Iowa Style

Grateful: Showing Gratitude in Business

Responding to the Storm: How Iowa Utilities Reacted to the Derecho

Iowa's Ongoing Manufacturing Workforce Shortage

Shaping Iowa's Leaders of Tomorrow

Lessons in Business Growth

Iowa Businesses Show Resilience During Pandemic

What A Ride

Bridging Iowa's Digital Divide

Taking Care of Business Conference

Employers Innovate to Tackle Iowa's Child Care Challenges

Dollars and Cents

Holiday Giving Spirit

Human Connection

Fostering an Engaged Electorate in the Workplace

Breaking the Manufacturing Ceiling

Perseverance During a Challenging Time

Iowa Business Leaders Weigh in on the Importance of Business in Education

All in the Family

COVID-19 Crisis

Hometown Health

The Business of Sustainability

An Iowa Success Story

All Sides of Workforce

2020 Legislative Preview

2020 Here We Come

Stories of Thanks: ABI Members Share Their Business Blessings

ABI Writes: Members Author Books to Better Themselves and Help Other Business Leaders

The State of Manufacturing

Connection Iowa: The Future of Telecom, Energy and Water Infrastructure

The Joys of Iowa Summers: The State’s Places, Products and Events Perfect for the Warmer Months

Law and Business: How the Judicial System is Vital to How Iowa Companies Operate

Empowering Rural Iowa: Initiatives Aim to Grow Iowa’s Small Communities

Building Bosses: Iowa Companies Drive Workforce Development, Advocacy

More than a College Town: Ames Boasts Growth, Entrepreneurial Spirit in Business Community

A New Slate: Iowa Businesses Lay Out Priorities for the 2019 Legislative Session

Healthcare in Iowa: Rising Prices Lead Employers to Find Cost-effective, Comprehensive Measures

Vermeer Strong: How the Pella-based Company Recovered, Rebuilt in the Face of Destruction

A Path to an Informed Electorate: Employers and Associations Work Together to Educate Employees and Voters

The Times Keep A-Changing: Newer Technologies Continue to Affect How Business is Done

It Runs in the Family: A Look at Some of Iowa's Multigenerational Family Businesses

Iowa Businesses Carve Out Global Opportunities, Look at the Future

A Sense of Community: What Makes Iowa a Great Place for Manufacturers?

Staying on Top of Trends: Iowa Leaders Read, Listen to Sharpen Skills

Iowa's Infrastructure: State Provides Many Transportation Options for Businesses

A Shared Identity: Eastern Iowa Unites to Create Creative Corridor

Top Priorities: Business Owners, Legislators Weigh in on 2018 Session

Working together: Companies, Iowa schools mutually benefit from partnerships