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Downtown Workforce

Downtown Des Moines (DSM), with its highly specialized and qualified workers, continues to be a hub for companies such as EMC Insurance, Principal and Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield to find motivated, qualified employees. Major employers from key industries around the region tap into Iowa's talent to make their businesses more efficient and profitable. Skilled workers are easy to find with over 39% (2024) of the region’s workforce having obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher. When compared to the nation’s bachelor’s degree or higher attainment of 36.6% (2024), our region ranks highly.

Major Employers in Downtown DSM

Tens of thousands of people currently work in Downtown DSM at corporations like Blue Cross Blue Shield, EMC Insurance, Global Atlantic, American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company, Lumen, Principal and many others. Find Downtown DSM job opportunities or post your company's job openings on the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Career Center. Additionally, The Partnership is actively engaged in supporting businesses in the growth, retention and education of their workforce through its talent development resources.

Why Downtown DSM?

Choosing where to locate your business matters to employees too. Downtown DSM offers more than a place to work, with dining, entertainment and amenities that create a vibrant environment for employees throughout the workday and beyond.

Attract and Retain Talent

Give employees more than a place to work. Employees in Downtown DSM have access to locally owned coffee shops, unique dining experiences and casual options like Local Bites Food Court, along with happy hour spots perfect for celebrating a work milestone or connecting with colleagues after hours. Downtown DSM is home to major community events including the World Food & Music Festival presented by Veridian Credit Union, Out to Lunch and more.

Stay Connected

With a Skywalk System that extends beyond four miles, public transit and parking options, Downtown DSM makes it easy for employees, clients and visitors to get around.

Be Part of the Downtown DSM Community

Locating in Downtown DSM puts your business at the center of an active business community, alongside major employers, small businesses and organizations representing a variety of industries.

Downtown DSM also brings people together for major business events and networking opportunities including the Global Insurance Symposium, The Partnership's Regional Summit and other events.