DEI Efforts Ensure a Vibrant, Growing Community

Greater Des Moines (DSM) is the fastest-growing major metro in the Midwest in part because it is a global community that values diversity and welcomes individuals from all backgrounds.

Axios recently reported a story sharing numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau that demonstrate this growth. DSM has experienced exceptional minority population growth rates since the turn of the century, significantly outpacing the national average. Consider:

• The Hispanic population in DSM has grown by 187% compared to the U.S. rate of 80.3%.
• The Black population has seen a 129% increase in DSM, while the national rate stands at 31%.
• The Asian population has grown by 201% in DSM, surpassing the U.S. rate of 105%.
• DSM's population of individuals identifying with two or more races has risen by a remarkable 253%, while the national rate is 48%.

These statistics showcase DSM's rich diversity and underscore the importance of fostering inclusivity and equity within the community. The Greater Des Moines Partnership aims to actively cultivate a welcoming environment through various community events and programming.

Multicultural Reception and Roundtable

On Wednesday, Aug. 2, The Partnership will partner with Corteva Agriscience to host a Multicultural Reception and Roundtable. These events serve as a platform for individuals from diverse backgrounds to connect, share experiences and promote understanding. These receptions typically draw hundreds of people who are passionate about building an inclusive community. The event will take place at Corteva Agriscience’s Carver Research Center beginning at 4 p.m. with a roundtable discussion and will continue from 5 – 6:30 with a reception. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com/events.

DEI Management Certification Program

DEI work is a journey that requires continued education and professional development. The Partnership and Des Moines-based Schabel Solutions, Inc. will host the second cohort of the DEI Management Certification Program beginning Tuesday, Aug. 29. The program offers a valuable opportunity for leaders and professionals to enhance their understanding and practice of DEI. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the role they can play in fostering a more inclusive environment and how to build and sustain successful workforces, workplaces and marketplace outcomes. This program kicked off earlier this year with a successful cohort of 20 people, and we heard excellent feedback. Learn more about this program at DSMpartnership.com/events.

2023 World Food & Music Festival

Another notable event that celebrates cultures from around the world is the World Food & Music Festival presented by Veridian Credit Union, scheduled for Aug. 25 – 27 at Western Gateway Park in Downtown DSM. The Festival cultivates an environment where flavors, sounds and traditions of different cultures come together. The Festival will feature 55 vendors from 24 countries, a diverse array of musical stylings and a wide variety of programming for tens of thousands of attendees. Learn more at worldfoodandmusicfestival.com.

Minority Business Growth Programming

This upcoming programming supplements the continued efforts of the Scale DSM Business Accelerator. Scale DSM, sponsored by Wells Fargo, takes participants through a seven-month program to jumpstart their business growth. Learn more about Scale DSM at DSMpartnership.com/scaleDSM.

All of these events and programs reinforce DSM's commitment to being an inclusive and welcoming region for all. Together, we can continue to cultivate an environment that sets DSM apart as a global community.

Learn more about the Multicultural Reception and DEI Management Certification Program at DSMpartnership.com/events and learn more about the World Food & Music Festival at worldfoodandmusicfestival.com.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership Board is made up of Greater Des Moines (DSM) leaders and industry experts. The Board is united in driving economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region.