2026 AREA Housing Summit

Join us for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance’s first-ever Housing Summit, a full-day event exploring how housing drives economic opportunity for families, communities, and businesses across the Ames region.

Attendees will engage in timely discussions, hear from Iowa housing leaders, and gain insight into local and regional development strategies that strengthen our communities. The day will feature keynote speakers, panel conversations, exhibitor networking, and the 2025 AREA Housing Impact Awards luncheon—celebrating excellence in housing projects that make a lasting impact.

This anticipated event invites all housing professionals, advocates, and community leaders to connect, collaborate, and advance solutions that support a thriving Ames region.

Event Schedule:

8:00 AM – Event Registration

8:15 AM – Welcome & Kickoff Summit

8:30 AM – Keynote Presentation: Numbers Matter, Speaker: Reynolds Cramer

9:15 AM – Housing Task Force Panel

10:00 AM – Break

10:30 AM – Low Income Housing Tax Credits Panel

11:15 AM – Lunch / AREA Housing Impact Awards featuring Debi Durham

1:00 PM – Thriving Communities Showcase (Charles City)

1:30 PM – USDA Programs

1:45 PM – Break

2:15 PM – Homes for Iowa

2:30 PM – Housing Development Tools

3:15 PM – Summit Wrap Up

3:30 PM – Optional Bus Tour

5:00 PM – Conclusion

2026 AREA Housing Summit Sponsors