A Vision Forward: Building Ankeny’s Future Together in 2026
As we begin a new year and look toward 2026, I am honored to step into the role of Chair of the Board of Directors for the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce. Building on the strong momentum established throughout 2025, our business community enters the year ahead positioned for continued growth, collaboration, and long-term success. I am grateful to serve alongside an exceptional group of leaders who are deeply committed to advancing our Chamber and strengthening Ankeny’s future.
First, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to our outgoing Chair and Board members for their leadership, dedication, and service. Their vision and commitment have helped elevate the Chamber, expand opportunities for our members, and establish a strong foundation that will guide us well into the years ahead.
I am also excited to welcome our new Board members. Each brings valuable experience, insight, and perspective that will help shape the Chamber’s direction as we look to the future. Together with our returning Board members, we represent a diverse and engaged group of leaders united by a common goal: fostering a strong, innovative, and connected local economy.
As Ankeny continues to grow, the Chamber’s role becomes increasingly important. The Chamber serves as more than a business resource—it is a catalyst for connection, collaboration, and community impact. Through local marketing opportunities, networking, advocacy, and business-to-business relationships, the Chamber helps businesses build trust, visibility, and meaningful connections. When businesses invest in one another locally, they help create a community that is resilient, welcoming, and forward-thinking.
There is a simple but powerful idea that when like-minded people come together with a shared focus, the “cream rises to the top.” This principle defines the strength of our Chamber and our business community. By working collaboratively, sharing knowledge, and supporting one another, we elevate not just individual businesses, but the entire Ankeny economy. Growth is strongest when it is shared, and success is most impactful when it benefits the whole community.
Looking ahead to 2026, our focus remains on delivering meaningful value to our members while positioning the Chamber for the future. We will continue to prioritize advocacy, professional development, strategic networking, and initiatives that help businesses adapt, innovate, and thrive. Listening to our members and responding to the evolving needs of our community will remain central to our mission.
The Chamber staff has curated an exciting and forward-looking calendar of events, including Legislative Updates, Mentoring for Women, Ankeny Chamber SummerFest, the Multicultural Business Summit, Witches Night Out, and Discover Ankeny. These events, along with regular networking opportunities and ribbon cuttings, serve as powerful touchpoints for connection, celebration, and community engagement.
As we enter the year ahead, we are also launching our Total Resource Campaign, supported by more than 20 dedicated volunteers. Sponsorships secured through this effort are critical to funding the programs, events, advocacy, and professional development opportunities that allow the Chamber to serve both our members and the citizens of Ankeny.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you for your continued engagement and belief in the Ankeny Chamber of Commerce. Together, we look forward to shaping a future defined by collaboration, opportunity, and shared success.
Sincerely,
Dr. Aaron Rickelman
Chairman, Board of Directors
Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce