Greater Des Moines Partnership Receives 2026 Chamber of the Year Award
In a remarkable achievement, the Greater Des Moines Partnership has been named the 2026 Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). This award represents the highest honor in the chamber profession, and it marks a significant milestone as it is the first time the Partnership has received this prestigious recognition since the award program was established in 2007.
The Chamber of the Year award highlights organizations that exhibit strong leadership, innovative practices, and impactful contributions to their communities. The Greater Des Moines Partnership stood out due to its collaborative approach and commitment to fostering business growth and community development within the Greater Des Moines area.
Tiffany Tauscheck, President and CEO of the Partnership, expressed gratitude for this recognition, stating, "This recognition belongs to the entire Greater Des Moines region. It reflects the commitment of our Board of Directors, Investors, Affiliate Chambers, Regional Chamber Members, community partners, and stakeholders, as well as our incredible Partnership team—past and present. Whether we're preparing the next generation of talent or strengthening connections across our region, our success is made possible by the people and organizations who choose collaboration every day."
The Greater Des Moines Partnership operates as an integrated chamber of commerce and economic development organization, a rare model in the U.S. This allows it to effectively drive initiatives that support business expansion and workforce development across the region. With over 7,200 Regional Chamber Members and more than 400 Investors, the Partnership is the second-largest regional chamber of commerce in the country and the largest such organization in Iowa. It is dedicated to advocating for economic development and talent growth, with a focus on public policy as a supportive element of its mission.
Reflecting on the significance of the award, Chris Costa, President and CEO of Knapp Properties and the 2026 Partnership Board Chair, stated, "This recognition reflects years of commitment from leaders across our region who have chosen to work together to create lasting opportunities. What makes this award especially meaningful is that it's backed by measurable results that are making a positive difference for businesses and communities across Greater Des Moines. This honor belongs to everyone helping move our region forward."
Since its inception in 1999, the Partnership's regional economic development efforts have resulted in attracting over $17.1 billion in capital investment, facilitating 803 business expansions and new locations, and creating or retaining more than 40,500 jobs in the area. Presently, $5.7 billion in capital investment projects are active or in progress, with an additional $2 billion of projects lined up, exhibiting sustained momentum for the Greater Des Moines region.
For those interested in finding out more about the initiatives spearheaded by the Greater Des Moines Partnership, further details can be found at
DSMPartnership.com.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is Iowa's largest regional business, economic development, and talent organization, serving several counties within Greater Des Moines. Together with an extensive network of more than 400 Investors and over 7,200 Regional Chamber Members in its Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network, the Partnership strives to enhance business growth and quality of life throughout the region with a unified voice and mission. For more information, visit
DSMpartnership.com.