Forty leaders from across Iowa have been selected to participate in the 2026-27 Leadership Iowa program, Iowa’s premier statewide leadership experience offered by the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) Foundation. Among this year’s class is Eric Smidt, Vice President of Marketing & Communications for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance.
Since its founding in 1982, Leadership Iowa has brought together more than 1,500 leaders from communities and industries across the state. The program is designed to educate, inspire and connect leaders while giving participants a deeper understanding of the issues shaping Iowa’s future.
“The Leadership Iowa program brings together leaders with diverse experiences and perspectives who share a commitment to making Iowa a great place to live and work,” said Nicole Crain, ABI President. “We look forward to seeing the engagement and ideas for Iowa’s future from this year’s class.”
Throughout the program, participants will travel to communities across Iowa for two-day sessions focused on key issues and opportunities facing the state. Sessions include discussions with subject-matter experts, industry tours, interactive experiences and opportunities to connect with leaders in each community.
For Smidt, participation in Leadership Iowa provides an opportunity to gain a broader perspective on issues affecting communities and businesses across the state while bringing those insights back to the Ames region.
Session topics and regional hosts for the 2026-27 program include:
- Oskaloosa – Opening Retreat (October)
- Boone – Agriculture & Renewable Resources (November)
- Marshalltown – Economic Development & Workforce (December)
- Des Moines – Government (January)
- Mason City/Clear Lake – Manufacturing (March)
- Council Bluffs/Treynor – Education (April)
- Spencer – Healthcare & Public Service (May)
The 2026-27 class will graduate at ABI’s annual conference, June 8-10 in Dubuque. The presenting sponsor of the 2026-27 Leadership Iowa program is EMC Insurance. See the Leadership Iowa 2026-27 participant list here.
The Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) has been the voice of Iowa business since 1903. Its mission is to provide a strong, unified voice to business and industry on issues affecting Iowa employers. ABI is comprised of member companies representing all industries and sizes in Iowa’s 99 counties, with members employing more than 330,000 Iowans.