Since its inception, the Iowa Business Council has evolved from a research and advisory organization to a proactive advocacy group asserting leadership on major business policy initiatives.

While other organizations effectively focus on individual issues, the Council maintains a “big picture” perspective. For example, the Council was an early endorser of the Iowa Values Fund and supported its reinstatement and funding to further build on Iowa’s strengths in manufacturing, life sciences, and information technology.

CONVERTING IDEAS INTO REALITY

In 2001, an IBC white paper titled “A Case for Change” addressed the vitality of the business community in Iowa and set forth recommendations on how to move the state’s economy forward. Over time, the Council has worked with many other similarly motivated groups and associations, all possessing the common goal of converting ideas into reality to stimulate economic growth. These collaborative efforts have resulted in significant strides and progress on issues vital to Iowa’s future.

Additionally, the Business Council represents more than $250 million worth annually in financial contributions and volunteer hours given to numerous charitable causes around the state.

ORIGINS

• Founded in 1985
• Nonprofit 501(c)(6), nonpartisan, self-funded organization
• Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa

MEMBERSHIP

• Members include the top executives of 20 of the largest businesses in the state, the three Regent university presidents, and the president and CEO of Iowa’s largest banking association.
• Collectively, IBC member companies and institutions employ more than 210,000 Iowans and, in just the last ten years, have invested over $15 billion worth of capital in the state.
• Participation is by invitation only – to ensure geographic and industry diversity and provide a range of business perspectives. The Council’s representation reaches statewide and touches all 99 counties.
• Council members are leaders in technology innovation with over $2 billion in annual spending and procured grants for research and development.

PAST CHAIRS

1986-87 Daniel Krumm - Maytag Corporation

1988 John Taylor - Principal Financial Group

1989 Thomas Urban - Pioneer Hi-Bred International

1990 Lee Liu - Iowa Electric Light & Power

1991 Wayne Bevis - Rolscreen Company

1992 Stanley Howe - HON Industries

1993 Ronald D. Pearson - Hy-Vee, Inc

1994 Jack Rehm - Meredith Corporation

1995 James D. White - Deere & Company

1996 Neil Milner - Iowa Bankers Association

1997 Robert L. Vermeer - Vermeer Manufacturing

1998 Leonard A. Hadley - Maytag Corporation

1999 Gary M. Christensen - Pella Corporation

2000 Teresa Wahlert - US WEST Communications

2000 R. Edward Howell - University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics

2001 Clayton M. Jones - Rockwell Collins

2002-03 Eliot G. Protsch - Alliant Energy Corporation

2004 John D. Forsyth - Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

2005 Todd M. Raba - MidAmerican Energy Company

2006-08 Max A. Phillips - Qwest

2009 Mel Haught - Pella Corporation