Sioux City to Host 2023 Iowa Downtown Conference
The 37th annual Iowa Downtown Conference will be held August 1-3 in Sioux City, Iowa. The event is the premier annual conference for professionals and volunteers involved in downtown revitalization in Iowa and neighboring states. Twice named an All-America City by the National Civic League and designated an Iowa Great Place, Sioux City, Iowa serves as the regional hub for business, employment, industry, retail trade, medical care, educational opportunities, and tourism in Northwest Iowa. The LaunchPAD Children's Museum, the historic Orpheum Theatre, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, award-winning Art Center, and interactive Public Museum are just a few of the fun activities to enjoy downtown. Exciting new developments are underway with new investments in downtown, including the Riverfront Redevelopment Project and nine miles of machine-built and engineered mountain biking paths.
The Iowa Downtown Conference itself provides opportunities for attendees to make new connections, hear about the latest trends, acquire practical information and ideas, and learn strategies relevant to rural, mid-sized urban communities and urban districts. Attendees will enjoy a unique experience and gain essential tools for addressing downtown development issues, historic commercial district vibrancy and competitiveness.
This educational and inspiring conference will include two full days of timely and relevant sessions that offer practical ideas and solutions presented by industry experts. Plenary sessions will feature three nationally known keynote speakers:
Andrew McCrea is a farmer, rancher, author, and nationally syndicated radio and TV broadcaster. He’s traveled the nation producing “American Countryside,” heard on radio stations coast-to-coast. Andrew’s has shared his blend of humor and real-life strategies for living with purpose in 49 states to audiences of up to 10,000 people.
Holly Hoffman was the last remaining member of the Espada Tribe and the last woman standing on Season 21 of Survivor Nicaragua on CBS. Through that experience, and others throughout her life, Holly was inspired to share her message of positivity, determination, and confidence. Holly’s message not only offers encouragement and optimism but a roadmap for self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment. Her methods are intuitive, honest, and adaptable to nearly any situation. Her audience is guaranteed to walk away inspired and motivated to succeed.
Dr. Ken Culp, III is Principal Extension Specialist for Volunteerism in the Department of 4-H Youth Development and Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Family Sciences at the University of Kentucky. Ken has 34 years experience in volunteer and nonprofit administration, volunteer development, service activities and leadership development. His research interests include generational and gender differences; volunteer recruitment, motivation, recognition, and retention; trends in volunteerism, volunteer competencies, volunteer program effectiveness and leadership development.
Attendees will be able to select from five tours offered to showcase Sioux City’s successful downtown district projects. Tickets for these authentic experiences will be available on a first come, first served basis and available for purchase at the time of registration.
There will also be number of enjoyable social activities planned for networking with people who recognize the importance of downtown revitalization. An Exhibit Hall will feature vendors offering related resources. Conference attendees will have the opportunity to explore Historic Fourth Street and Pearl Street Entertainment District for unique shopping, dining, and nightlife.
The Iowa Downtown Conference will be relevant and motivational for downtown enthusiasts, volunteers and staff from Chambers of Commerce and Main Street Iowa communities, mayors, city officials, historic preservation advocates and practitioners, economic developers, business and building owners, volunteers, and developers and planners.
Conference hosts are the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Iowa Downtown Resource Center, in partnership with Explore Sioux City, Downtown Partners Sioux City and the city of Sioux City.
For more information visit Iowa Downtown Conference (iowaeda.com). Questions, contact Carol Lilly at carol.lilly@iowaeda.com or call 515.559.4047.