Des Moines has become a fertile ground for entrepreneurs and small business owners, thanks to a variety of resources and initiatives designed to support business growth and innovation.
Educational and Mentorship Programs
Organizations like the Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship Outreach at Drake University provide valuable support to budding entrepreneurs. Established in 1998, the center fosters strong relationships between students and community entrepreneurs, offering mentorship and resources to help businesses thrive.
For young women interested in entrepreneurship, Pi515’s Girls Entrepreneurship Incubator offers a six-week program that empowers participants to launch their own businesses. Students receive mentorship from Des Moines metro business professionals, develop hands-on entrepreneurial skills, and build confidence as they prepare to pitch their ideas at the Pi515 Day of Innovation.
Financial Assistance and Incentives
The City of West Des Moines offers financial assistance to support business growth. Programs include the Upper Story Housing Program, which provides financial help to property owners to fix up or build new apartments on the upper floors of mixed-use buildings, and the Incentive Policy for Industrial Districts, which may provide tax rebates for new industrial projects that increase a property’s taxable value.
At the state level, the Iowa Economic Development Authority offers various grants and funding opportunities to help grow businesses, accelerate production, and conduct research. Programs include the Entrepreneurial Investment Awards Program, which supports resource providers that offer assistance to entrepreneurs and startup companies seeking to create, locate, or expand a business in Iowa.
Community Support and Networking
Local organizations like SCORE Des Moines provide free, expert mentoring and practical business guidance to entrepreneurs and small business owners across Central and Western Iowa. They offer workshops and events to help businesses succeed.
Additionally, the Greater Des Moines Partnership offers resources for startups and small businesses, including stories on fellow local entrepreneurs and upcoming events for small business owners and startups. They provide strong support and resources for startups and small businesses within the region.
Revitalization Efforts
To address the high vacancy rates in downtown Des Moines, city officials have proposed a $7 million initiative called “Restore the Core.” This program aims to provide matching reimbursement grants—up to $200,000 per project—for businesses willing to occupy long-vacant spaces. The initiative seeks to revitalize the area, protect the tax base, and sustain recent investments despite broader national trends of increasing downtown vacancies.
These resources and initiatives collectively contribute to a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and small businesses in Des Moines, fostering a vibrant and resilient local economy.