Copy of Entrepreneurs of Iowa Winter GALA | Business Conference Event

What are your 2026 Goals?
Are you looking to build a stronger network?
Do you want to surround yourself with people who "just get it"?

If so, please join us for the Winter GALA Business Conference on February 28th, 2026, at the historic Hotel Fort Des Moines.

• Walk away energized for 2026.
• Expand your Iowa Business Network.
• Enjoy exclusive panels, meals, and educational opportunities throughout the event.

Expect energized interactive panels on strategic mapping, overcoming obstacles, accountability, and scaling—delivering actionable insights by some of Iowa's TOP Business Minds.
With 20+ Iowa business leaders sharing wisdom, private sessions, and 40% of the day dedicated to creating meaningful interactions, you'll leave empowered, connected, and ready to dominate 2026.

8:45 AM - 9:00 AM
Event Opener | Launching GALA Event

PANELS: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Panel 1: Strategic Goal Mapping to Launch 2026
Join experts for an interactive discussion on charting effective paths to achievement, including live Q&A to address your specific goals.

Panel 2: Overcoming All Obstacles
Techniques for building resilience and adaptive strategies, with opportunities for participant questions and real-world applications.

Panel 3: Scaling Fast & Intentional
Build sustainable growth, momentum, and work for expansion into 2026.

Panel 4: Leaders of Iowa
Join active and future political leaders for an open conversation on the future of Iowa's business environment.

AFTERNOON BREAK: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Private Sessions | Lunch | Networking (MORE DETAILS COMING SOON)

PRE-GALA RECEPTION: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Casual networking in a designated area with light refreshments (appetizers and drinks), music, and booths.

GALA MAIN EVENT - PLATED MEAL AND KEYNOTES: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Join us for our Winter Gala Dinner commencing with doors opening at 5:30 PM for seating, followed by a plated meal served promptly at 6:00 PM, featuring a plated meal - entrée with two sides to provide nourishment while fostering meaningful connections through networking at designated tables among Iowa's entrepreneurial community. The evening's keynote segment features three distinguished speakers, each delivering concise 20–30 minute presentations to sustain momentum and emphasize interaction: Elijah Bluhm, Founder of Entrepreneurs of Iowa, Tony Rubleski, President of Mind Capture Group and bestselling author of the Mind Capture series, sharing over 25 years of expertise in personal development and strategies for capturing attention to propel business growth; with the third speaker to be announced, ensuring a dynamic blend of inspiration and collaboration throughout the event.

VIEW PRE-EVENT Networking Opportunities in Agenda**

Info: Exclusive to guests utilizing our room block. This casual session will include drinks and early introductions to encourage initial connections among early arrivals. Capacity limited to 30 for an intimate atmosphere. Must pre-register for head count.

Info: Build connections with other attendees and event speakers early in the AM pre-event. Coffee included. Breakfast is available on site.

Info: Join experts for an interactive discussion on charting effective paths to achievement, including live Q&A to address your specific goals.

Info: Techniques for building resilience and adaptive strategies, with opportunities for participant questions and real-world applications.

Info: Delve into frameworks for fostering commitment and enhancing performance, featuring engaging Q&A.

Info: Build sustainable growth, momentum, and work for expansion into 2026.

Info: Casual networking in a designated area with light refreshments (appetizers and drinks), music, and booths.

Info: Join us for our Winter Gala Dinner commencing with doors opening at 5:30 PM for seating, followed by a plated meal served promptly at 6:00 PM, featuring a plated meal - entrée with two sides to provide nourishment while fostering meaningful connections through networking at designated tables among Iowa's entrepreneurial community. The evening's keynote segment features three distinguished speakers, each delivering concise 20–30 minute presentations to sustain momentum and emphasize interaction: Elijah Bluhm, Founder of Entrepreneurs of Iowa, Tony Rubleski, President of Mind Capture Group and bestselling author of the Mind Capture series, sharing over 25 years of expertise in personal development and strategies for capturing attention to propel business growth; with the third speaker to be announced, ensuring a dynamic blend of inspiration and collaboration throughout the event.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, 1000 Walnut Street, Des Moines, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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