We are Thinking Small, but in a Different Way

Whether you are looking for tech support, a painter or landscaper, art, music, culinary delights, the perfect OOTD or even a morning cup of joe, your journey has likely led you to a small business. Small businesses not only drive our economy; they are part of the identity of Greater Des Moines (DSM). They bring life to our Main Streets, create jobs, spark innovation, and play a role in shaping our community. They exist, because a small business owner powered an idea with passion, strategy, financial backing and resiliency that defies the odds. Small business owners are very familiar with volatility and uncertainty. So much so, that there are times when grit and determination are the only things anchoring their dream.  

In our region, there are more than 21,000 businesses and nearly all of them are either currently a small business, or started out that way. That’s why the Greater Des Moines Partnership is focused on helping small businesses succeed, not just in the early stages, but throughout their growth journey. From learning how to access capital to connecting with government contractors to expanding into new storefronts, we are committed to providing the resources, education and support small businesses need to thrive. Here’s a look at some Partnership programs and events that are doing just that:  

Spark DSM Business Incubator

The Spark DSM Business Incubator empowers new and early-stage small businesses by providing both event access and educational resources to help them grow. This program supports vendors at signature Partnership events including the Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health, World Food & Music Festival presented by Veridian Credit Union and Out to Lunch. Participants will also complete a five-module curriculum focused on business planning, marketing, legal compliance, financial management and networking. 

This year, the program had a record number of applicants, and 11 participants from 2024 have been accepted as regular Downtown Farmers’ Market vendors for 2025! 

Scale DSM Business Accelerator

The Scale DSM Business Accelerator helps businesses gain access to knowledge, management know-how and networks needed to increase revenue, create jobs and positively impact the community. Participants complete the nationally recognized StreetWise MBA™ curriculum, designed for peer-based, practical learning that drives real outcomes. The program is tuition free and open to business owners of all backgrounds. This accelerator has graduated 38 businesses in the past three years, and 100% of them have reported being profitable. 

Contracting Opportunities for Small Business - Supplier Development Lunch and Learn

This series of lunch and learn events is focused on connecting small business owners with local government agencies and corporate partners in the contracting space. Each event includes briefings on how to do business with participating agencies, followed by dedicated time for networking. It’s a valuable opportunity for small businesses to learn the ins and outs of procurement and begin forming relationships that could lead to future growth. Stay tuned for information on the next event. 

Entrepreneur Field Days

Modeled after Iowa’s long-standing tradition of field days in agriculture, Entrepreneur Field Days events invite participants to go behind the scenes with local business owners and learn how their ideas took root. These free, public events are open to entrepreneurs, mentors, creatives, educators and curious community members alike. These events are all about learning from real-world experience and celebrating the brilliant business minds powering our communities. 

When Anderson Erickson Dairy (AE) was founded in 1930 by my grandfather, Iver Erickson, our small business not only survived the depression, but also a time when there were more than 150 other dairies in the Greater Des Moines region. Nearly a century later, AE has grown and evolved through generations of change. Our family and employees are so thankful for the continued gift of support from our community! I encourage you to experience the joy and fulfillment of trading with a small business. You will make a friend and even find treasures you may have overlooked!

Learn more about small business resources, find the latest Partnership events and learn how to support or get involved in a local chamber of commerce.