DES MOINES– “Iowa. Connected.” For years, it’s been the motto of Iowa Association of Business and Industry’s (ABI) annual Taking Care of Business Conference, and for good reason: No statewide business event brings more Iowa business leaders together.
That motto is more relevant, and more resonant, than ever at the 2021 conference, June 8-10, in Coralville/Iowa City, which for many will be the first in-person event attended in over a year. Conference registration is live at www.ABITakingCareOfBusiness.com.
“There’s more buzz about this ABI conference than any other I can remember,” said ABI President Mike Ralston. “Members tell me how excited they are to be together in-person, even if we’re six feet apart.”
The conference is held at the Coralville Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, with additional activities at Finkbine Golf Course, Big Grove Brewery and Taproom, and Xtream Arena.
Speakers include Geoff Colvin, Fortune senior editor-at-large and best-selling author, Dr. Tarika Barrett, STEM superstar and incoming CEO at Girls Who Code and Tom Bedell, Co-Owner of Two Old Hippies Guitars, in Bend, Ore.
The conference also features workshops from Iowa business experts on leading virtually; embracing diversity, equity and inclusion; marketing through storytelling; and more.
“The pandemic taught us just how valuable in-person connections are,” said ABI Board Chair Steven Bradford, senior vice president, general counsel and secretary for HNI Corporation. “When we finally get together at the 2021 conference in Coralville/Iowa City, it’s going to be the most memorable one yet.”
A number of safety protocols are in place to ensure the safety of conference-goers. Masks are required unless attendees are eating or drinking. Social distancing is strongly encouraged and extra space is reserved to accommodate. Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the event space. Attendees should stay home if experiencing symptoms, are high risk or have a fever over 100.3 per the CDC.
The Taking Care of Business Conference is Iowa’s premier statewide business conference. It brings together the state’s most influential industry leaders to learn, network and share ideas on growing Iowa’s business climate.
Companies of all sizes are encouraged to bring leadership teams. Learn more and register at www.ABITakingCareOfBusiness.com.