The Gazette launched Iowa Ideas in the fall of 2016 with the intent to be an inclusive gathering hub for passionate Iowans to explore and discuss issues impacting the state. The exchange of views across industries, party lines and positions as Iowans became a quick win in both attendee experience and solutions-driven content.
In 2020, restrictions of a national pandemic, alongside a natural disaster of derecho led to a commitment to move the conference forward in 2020 as an all virtual, all access experience that welcomed a record 1200 attendees. The message was clear: Iowa Ideas was no longer a luxury, but a necessity to gain greater understanding of what issues, challenges and solutions we face as a state.
Iowa Ideas has reached a statewide footprint that features hundreds of local, state and national speakers. The conference remains free to attend, with the support of our generous sponsors. Every track of Iowa Ideas has worked through an internal and statewide advisory council-working with event organizers to identify the most current issues within the sectors of education, health care, workforce, human and social services, diversity, equity and inclusion, community development, energy and environment, and policy.
There is truly nothing like Iowa Ideas offered in our state. Who attends? Policy makers, students, seasoned leaders, small business owners, individuals with a passion for Iowa, and beyond. If you care about Iowa, this conference-this experience-is for you.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Every individual with a passion for Iowa has the right to participate in the Iowa Ideas conference. The following is how event organizers are building an inclusive experience that welcomes a variety of perspectives.
Free admission with registration
Thanks to the support of generous sponsors, there is no fee to attend the conference. Registration ensures that every attendee is sent communication leading up to and throughout the conference, such as how to build a schedule, any session changes or special announcements.
Recorded and archived sessions
Conference sessions are recorded and available for replay on this website for free.
Watch parties and community connections
Iowa Ideas provides a space to connect on areas of interests and topics both virtual and in person. Watch parties offers communities to come together to take in the content and discussion throughout Iowa Ideas with time to share response, reaction and intentions on how to apply this information for a better Iowa. Throughout the year, opportunities to organize watch parties leading up to the conference event will empower voices from across the state, country and beyond.
