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Scale DSM Announces Second Cohort Graduates

December 12, 2023

GREATER DES MOINES, IA (Dec. 12, 2023) – The Greater Des Moines Partnership has announced the graduates of the second 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 program, which is centered around practical, case-based peer learning for minority-led businesses. 

“We are incredibly proud of the second cohort Scale DSM graduates who were intentional in expanding their skills in ways 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 flourishing as we look forward to continuing with this initiative next year.” 

Graduates from the first cohort are: 

  • Amner Martinez, Infinite Resources   
  • Blanca Plascencia, El Fogon Mexican Restaurant 
  • Claudia Grubb, That’s Clean  
  • Mariela Maya, Panka Peruvian Restaurant   
  • Marla Earp, XoXo Gift & Home  
  • Nizigiyimana Danifodi, Danifodi Custom Suits 
  • Perlla Deluca, Southeast Constructors, INC  
  • Sharlonda Roorda, Shar's   
  • Stephanie Rodriguez, Iowa First Call Towing  
  • Yen Verhoeven, Qi Learning Research Group 

“Congratulations to each of the small businesses that completed the second year of the Scale DSM program,” said Laura Howe, Regional Banking Executive at Wells Fargo. “Their success brings vibrancy to our community, and Wells Fargo is proud to support them as they continue to grow.” 

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 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 400 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.