Promote, Build and Illuminate Iowa Communities at the One Voice DSM Business & Non-Profit Fair
For one day in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), One Voice DSM is hosting a dynamic business and nonprofit fair at the Meredith Building at Drake University, 2847 University Ave. in Des Moines, on Saturday, Feb. 28 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders and newcomers to enjoy a Summit-style event, the One Voice DSM Business & Non-Profit Fair will include keynote addresses, breakout sessions on growth, scaling and resources and a pitch-training track with a competition offering cash prizes to boost ventures. The afternoon Bazaar spotlights multicultural businesses, inviting Iowans to explore diverse offerings and learn about African and related cultures. A collaborative, empowering experience for entrepreneurship and community connection.
About the One Voice DSM Business & Non-Profit Fair
The One Voice DSM Business & Non-Profit Fair theme for 2026 is Strengthening Ecosystems. Join seven dynamic speakers, and help make an impact on Iowa small businesses at the 2026 event. And if you're one of the first 50 businesses to arrive before 9 a.m., submit your business card for entry into a $500 grant raffle (winner announced at 9:30 a.m.).
Speakers
This year's speakers include:
- Paula Bell, CEO of Paula A Bell Consulting, LLC — Emcee & Moderator
- Justin Appenzeller, Owner and President of Prairie Path Insurance, LLC — Panelist
- Dr. Ngozi Igbokwe, Learning and Development Professional and Business Owner — Panelist
- Diogenes Ayala, Public Safety Leader — Panelist and Emcee
- Miss Vie, Entrepreneur, Miss Vie Beauty — Panelist
- Chase Spencer, Program Manager of the Entrepreneurship Centers at Drake University — Speaker
- Ena Barbic Barnes, Executive Director at Iowa Credit Union Foundation — Speaker
Pitch Competition
Compete for a chance to win cash prizes, mentorship, investments and more during the One Voice DSM Business & Non-Profit Fair Pitch Competition. Eligible startups should meet the following criteria to participate:
- Be in operation for less than 2 years.
- Generated less than $10,000 in sales or earned revenue over the last 12 months.
- 51% minority-owned or majority immigrant-owned (51% or more).
- Not previously won the One Voice DSM pitch competition.
Startups must also register prior to Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 and must be able to pitch in-person in Des Moines on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026.
Register at onevoicedsm.org to attend as an attendee, pitch competitor, volunteer, vendor or sponsor.
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