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Scale DSM Announces First Graduating Cohort

December 14, 2022

GREATER DES MOINES, IA (Dec. 14, 2022) – The Greater Des Moines Partnership has announced the graduates of the first cohort of the Scale DSM Minority Business Accelerator Powered by Interise. Scale DSM is sponsored by Wells Fargo. 

Participants in Scale DSM completed a seven-month program from June – December that helped them gain access to knowledge, management know-how and networks needed to increase revenue, create jobs and positively impact the community. Participants completed Interise’s award-winning and internationally recognized StreetWise ‘MBA,’ (minority business accelerator) which is centered around practical, case-based peer learning for minority-led businesses. 

Graduates from the first cohort are: 

  • Jasmine Brooks, Brooks Homes 
  • Shelana Laing, Smile Labs VIP LLC 
  • Lily Okech, Cleaning for Hope 
  • Monica Reyes, Inmobiliaria Inc.  
  • Isabel Contreras, La Michoacana 
  • Latha Kumar, Zamoris Solutions Inc. 
  • Andres Rodriguez, Cotofos Auto Services 
  • Stephen Stegall, Golden Heart Senior Care 
  • Vince Collis, Title Fight 

“We are proud of each of the Scale DSM graduates who committed their time to learning skills that will help them grow their business here in Greater Des Moines,” said Juan Pablo Sanchez, Director of Inclusive Business Strategies at The Partnership. “We look forward to seeing these small businesses continue to add to the vibrancy of our region.” 

“Congratulations to each small business that completed the first year of the Scale DSM program,” said Marta Codina, Senior VP Growth and Branch Administration at Wells Fargo. “A diverse and thriving small businesses scene helps cultivate success in the community and strengthens businesses of all sizes.”  

Learn more about the Scale DSM Minority Business Accelerator here.  

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership  

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.