FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 4, 2026
Press Release: Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce to Host 4th Annual Multicultural Business Summit
[Ankeny, IA]: The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce and its Multicultural Taskforce invites Ankeny area professionals to the 4th Annual Multicultural Business Summit, formally known as the Minority-Owned Business Summit. This event takes place on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
This is a half-day event dedicated to empowering and elevating business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, managers, and professionals. Hosted at the Courtyard by Marriott Ankeny, this summit will feature insightful discussions, expert-led breakout sessions, and a keynote presentation on creating community through collaboration—all designed to provide valuable resources and inspiration for business growth and community leadership.
Attendees will attend three breakout sessions, each featuring local expert-led talks:
Session 1
- Connie Fiscus (Sunflower People & Culture Solutions, LLC) — Customer Service Advantage: Driving Loyalty and Revenue
- Reyna Immerfall (State Farm) — Protecting Your Business: Insurance 101
Session 2
- Christy Jones (SCORE) — 8 Ways to Fund Your Business
- Mazen Arawi (WorkEAI) — Demystifying AI for Small Business: What Works and What to Avoid
- Kourtney Perry (Privacy, LLC) — Chaos to Clarity: The Six-Figure Growth Engine
Session 3
- Nicole Prosech (Dickinson Bradshaw Fowler & Hagen P.C.) — Small Business, Big Problems: When to Call an Employment Lawyer Before Things Get Ugly (Yesterday)
- Kenneth James Chester (TechMobility Press/Streetwise Marketing) — Launch Broke. Market Smarter.
- Laura Kinnard (Curated Growth) — Scaling Your Small Business
Midday, lunch will be served while attendees hear from the breakout session speakers.
This summit offers a meaningful space to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, share strategies, and gain fresh insight from leaders in the field. Whether you are a current business owner or exploring new opportunities, this summit is designed to support and inspire Ankeny professionals.
“Professional development opportunities often require significant travel, time commitments, and expense. The Multicultural Business Summit offers an affordable alternative right here in Ankeny. Participants can gain expert insight and networking opportunities in a single morning. Our goal is simple: provide meaningful education and connections that help individuals grow their careers, strengthen their businesses, and contribute to the continued success of Ankeny,” said Rob Stevenson, a member of the taskforce.
All are welcome to attend, with the price of $25 for a chamber member and $35 for a non-chamber member. This event is sponsored by the Polk County Board of Supervisors. Attendees can register through this link: https://web.ankeny.org/atlas/events/8819/details
About the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce
The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to the promotion and development of its members within the community. The Chamber fosters a supportive network of business professionals that is second to none, emphasizing the importance of networking and connection for growth. Whether serving residents, local businesses, or visitors, the Chamber works to connect the community with all that Ankeny has to offer.
Live. Work. Play. Inspire Community.
For more information contact:
Tony PeterSmith
Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce
(515) 964 – 0685
tpetersmith@ankeny.org
