A Year of Leadership, Learning, and Lasting Impact

As the ABI Foundation concludes its program year and embarks on a new year with Leadership Iowa, we look forward to strengthening partnerships and continuing to serve students, individuals, and organizations throughout.

In 2025, Business Horizons, our five-day immersive program for high school students, welcomed 66 participants from across the Midwest to Drake University’s campus in July. Before and after the program, students completed surveys reflecting on their experience. Many reported gaining new knowledge and skills, developing a sense of belonging and accomplishment, and forming lasting friendships with peers from other schools.

Throughout the week, students not only collaborated to launch their own start-up ventures but also visited local organizations across a range of industries. These visits allowed them to meet with business leaders, ask questions, and explore the many career opportunities available in Iowa. Notably, 87% of participants said the program improved their understanding of Iowa businesses and helped them think more clearly about their future paths.

Leadership Iowa University took place in early August, bringing together 20 college students and interns representing a variety of Iowa companies. The program focuses on helping participants strengthen their personal and professional brands while discovering the many career and leadership opportunities available right here in Iowa.

An impressive 93% of participants reported that they now have a better understanding of how to create positive change within their organizations and communities.

Tracy Ngo, a student at Drake University, shared “Leadership Iowa University is such a great experience for college students like us as we get closer to entering the workforce. We gained lessons that will have a lasting impact on our lives and learned so much about Iowa’s economy and its endless opportunities in entrepreneurship.”

The ABI Foundation is proud to continue empowering and supporting the future leaders of Iowa’s workforce. If you’re interested in sponsorship opportunities or volunteering during the program, we’d love to connect with you! ABI