Partnership Launches 2026 Top Five Series to Support Small Business Growth
GREATER DES MOINES, IA (March 3, 2026) – The Greater Des Moines Partnership has announced the schedule for the 2026 Top Five for Small Business Series sponsored by Principal® Financial Group. This six-part program is designed to equip small and mid-size business owners with practical insights and tools to support growth, hiring and long-term success.
The Top Five series features regional experts in accounting, human resources, marketing, sales and other key business disciplines. Each session highlights five actionable takeaways that can help small business leaders navigate challenges, strengthen operations and position their companies for growth.
“At Principal®, we know that when small businesses are strong, communities thrive,” said Jo Christine Miles, Director, Principal® Foundation and Community Relations. “By equipping business owners with practical tools, trusted expertise and meaningful connections, we strengthen local economies and create more pathways to opportunity across the region.”
The 2026 lineup features six virtual sessions, each held from 9–10 a.m. via Zoom, designed to deliver practical insights in a focused, one-hour format.
The full schedule includes:
- Wednesday, March 25: Top Five Marketing Truths Every Business Needs to Know in 2026 | Register
- Wednesday, April 22: Hiring That Sticks: Why Great Candidates Choose You (and Stay) | Register
- Wednesday, May 27: Top Five Tax Moves Every Small Business Should Consider Making Before Year-End | Register
- Wednesday, Aug. 26: Trends Impacting HR and Employees: Essential Insights for Small and Mid-size Business Owners | Register
- Wednesday, Sept. 23: The Growth Blind Spot | Register
- Wednesday, Oct. 28: Moving Work, Moving People, Moving Mountains | Register
“The Top Five series is designed to deliver real-world value in a format that respects the time of small business owners,” said Emily McLain, Regional Affiliates and Member Support Manager at The Partnership. “By connecting entrepreneurs with experienced professionals and practical strategies, we’re helping strengthen the foundation for long-term business success across the region.”
All sessions are open to small and mid-size business owners, entrepreneurs and organizational leaders seeking actionable insights to support business growth.
To learn more about the Top Five Series for Small Business, contact Emily McLain.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the largest regional business, economic development and talent development organization in Iowa and the second-largest regional chamber of commerce in the country, serving Greater Des Moines counties including: Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Tama and Warren. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 7,200 Regional Chamber Members, The Partnership helps businesses grow and advances quality of life in Greater Des Moines with one voice, one mission and as one region, contributing to a vibrant regional economy. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.
About Principal Financial Group
Principal community relations supports the communities where affiliates of the Principal Financial Group®, Des Moines, IA 50392 operates. Insurance products and plan administrative services provided through Principal Life Insurance Company®, a member of the Principal Financial Group, Des Moines, IA 50392.