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DSM USA Continues to Come Together

DSM Momentum

September 23, 2021

As we continue to navigate the latest developments in the pandemic, we are reminded of our community’s resilience, momentum and optimism for the future.

DSM Momentum + Growth

The recently released U.S. Census Bureau numbers show that Greater Des Moines (DSM) is again the fastest-growing major metro in the Midwest. The region grew 17% between 2010 and 2020, which built on 18% growth between 2000 and 2010. Additionally, the numbers show our population is growing more diverse. This population growth reminds us that DSM is a place people want to live and grow their family and career. We expect this momentum to continue as we push toward 1 million in population.

This news comes as we have received significant national recognition in recent months. DSM has been named a top five metro for sustainability, a top 10 most resilient tech hub, a magnet for new residents, a “secretly cool capital city” and more.

This recognition is underscored by more momentum on major projects and a hunger to ensure our community is set up for continued success. Recently, the Pro Iowa Soccer Stadium and Global Plaza has received major funding commitments from the Iowa Economic Development Authority, American Equity Life Insurance Company, Polk County and the City of Des Moines. The Iowa Confluence (ICON) Water Trails project has received commitments from MidAmerican Energy Company, Nationwide and Polk County. Construction is underway on the Des Moines Industrial Transloading Facility, which will help drive continued economic development success. At Des Moines International Airport, the new Cowles Drive entrance road to the terminal and parking, the first public-facing project associated with the terminal project, has opened. These are a few of the many momentous projects happening across the region.

Here are a few action steps you can take to help our community remain #DSMstrong:

  • As you continue to make decisions for your organization and team in response to the pandemic, we remind you to utilize the internationally recognized DSM Forward playbooks on The Partnership’s website at DSMpartnership.com/DSMforward.
  • This continues to be a trying time on our healthcare workforce and we are thankful so many of our doctors and nurses continue to rise to the challenge as variants persist. If you know a healthcare worker, make sure to say thank you, and consider posting a thank you message on social media using #DSMstrong. We also encourage you to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to help protect yourself and your fellow residents.
  • Continue to support local businesses. The Partnership’s website at DSMpartnership.com/DSMlocal contains a number of #DSMlocal Buying Guides which feature insights on businesses broken up by category including patio dining, weddings, restaurants, gardening and more.
  • Stay tuned for information on how to get involved in the Downtown DSM: Future Forward vision and action plan at downtownDSMplan.com.

Thank you for your commitment to our region and driving success with one voice.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 24 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 365 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.

Fred Buie

Fred Buie is president of Keystone Electrical Manufacturing Company and serves as the Greater Des Moines Partnership's 2021 board chair.