DMDC 2025: One Voice. One Mission. One United Region.

From May 7 – 9, 2025 nearly 170 business, civic and community leaders from across the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s 12 county region convened in Washington, D.C. for the 46th Annual DMDC trip. This annual fly-in continues to stand out as one of the largest Chamber led advocacy efforts in the country, offering participants a unique opportunity to directly engage with federal policymakers and champion the region’s priorities.

Advancing a Federal Policy Agenda

At the heart of DMDC 2025 was a shared commitment to advancing The Partnership’s Federal Policy Agenda. This year’s Featured Priorities included:

• Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
• Housing
• Child Care
• Immigration
• Designation of Highway 65 as an Interstate

Through meetings with Iowa’s Congressional Delegation and their staff, attendees shared their stories and advocated for actionable solutions to move these issues forward.

Engaging Programming and Policy Dialogue

Beyond advocacy, the DMDC experience offered a robust mix of informative programming, valuable networking and collaboration:

• Welcome Luncheon: The trip kicked off with remarks from Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet.
• Advocacy Panel: Experts from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Football League, and the University of Iowa shared insights to help attendees prepare for their meetings on the Hill.
• Public Policy Workshops: Sessions explored critical topics including immigration, trade and the supply chain, equipping attendees with timely knowledge and tools for effective advocacy.
• Iowa Congressional Reception: More than 300 guests gathered for this rooftop event at the Hall of States, offering a lively and relaxed atmosphere to connect with Iowa’s Congressional Delegation.
• One Region Luncheon: Senator Deb Fischer shared remarks on her efforts to advance meaningful legislation in the Senate.
• Congressional Staff Discussions: Attendees dove deeper into issues like economic development, energy, health care, transportation, workforce and agriculture and trade in targeted breakout sessions.
• Congressional Staff Brunch: Deputy Under Secretary Michelle Bekkering of the U.S. Department of Agricultural provided remarks on the administration and Senior White House Reporter of CBS News, Jennifer Jacobs shared stories of media coverage from the past couple of administrations.

Connecting

Beyond the policy meetings and panels, DMDC 2025 created moments of connection and celebration that reminded us of the power of community:

• Nighttime Monument Trolley Tour: A guided evening tour of Washington’s most iconic landmarks provided a meaningful cultural experience for first time and returning attendees.
• One Partnership Celebration: Held at Penn Social, the evening brought the group together to celebrate the region’s collective efforts and included a competitive and fun bags tournament to top it off.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on DMDC 2025, it’s clear that the power of showing up together cannot be overstated. The collective voice of our region was heard and reinforced our shared vision for economic growth.

We extend our deepest thanks to the attendees, speakers, sponsors, and the Iowa Congressional Delegation and staff who made this year’s trip a resounding success. Your commitment continues to shape the future of the region.

We look forward to continuing this important work together for DMDC 2026.

DMDC is an annual trip to Washington, D.C. where community business leaders meet with policymakers to advocate for legislative priorities. Learn about how this collaborative networking opportunity achieves as one region, one voice.