2025 - A Look Ahead

In this column last month, we reflected on the successes of the organization over the past year. While 2024 was good, I truly believe that ABI is poised for an even better 2025 from both a program and impact perspective. To kick things off, January 1 marked the first time in two decades our association has had a new executive leader with Nicole Crain assuming the role of ABI President. Nicole has been working with the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors in ensuring the organization is positioned to meet both our current needs and our requirements for future success. Many of us have had the opportunity to work with Nicole during her tenure in other roles in the organization and with this month’s feature story, we will learn more about her leadership style, vision and the passion she has for our organization.

In addition to a new leader at ABI, we have a new leader as President of the United States and a new Lieutenant Governor for Iowa, as well as many new elected officials at all levels of government. As we head into a new state legislative session, this edition provides additional insight showcasing Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver and what he sees ahead for 2025.

As business leaders, it is beneficial for each of us to know, and have the ability to engage with our elected officials. By reaching out to them with an email, call or better yet offering a facility tour, we can help them understand the importance of ABI member businesses to Iowa’s economy and the impact legislative proposals would have on our businesses and communities.

No matter your business function and focus, developing a relationship with your state representative and senator ensures your voice is heard and this member engagement is key to impacting legislative issues that affect your business. If you would like assistance making those connections, please reach out to JD Davis or Brad Hartkopf at ABI.

By the time this monthly edition goes to press, ABI will have held its second-largest annual event, the association’s Legislative Briefing and Reception. Over 400 Iowa businesspeople and elected officials will have participated. To continue that momentum, I hope you will join me at Business Day on March 12 in Des Moines. We will hear from key legislative leadership mid-session and get the latest developments at the Capitol.

ABI is a member driven organization that serves as a unified voice for Iowa business. If you are not currently one of our valued 1,500 member companies, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about how ABI can provide benefit to your organization by visiting www. IowaABI.org or contacting Levi Lefebure, Membership Development Manager at llefebure@iowaabi.org or 515-235-0568.

Finally, this column wouldn’t be complete without reminding you of the ABI Annual Conference in Council Bluffs June 10-12. Hotel rooms are filling up, workshops are selected, and keynote speakers are getting finalized. I can’t wait to welcome you to Council Bluffs. ABI