Celebrating and Supporting Iowa Family Business

Family businesses are a cornerstone of Iowa's economy, playing a crucial role in job creation, economic stability, and community development. We quickly think of the jobs they provide and economic force that they are, but family businesses contribute so much more to our local and global economies.

The community impact of family-owned businesses is immeasurable. They are helping to create a sense of place and culture in their local areas by supporting local schools, hospitals, and other community projects like these three examples:

1. Paulson Electric, Cedar Rapids "Paulson Electric has both an Endowed Fund and a Corporate Donor-Advised Fund at the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. They opened their funds in 2007 because they believe that corporate philanthropy is an important part of the mission of their company. But it's not just their business that has given back. Throughout their lives, the Olsons have been involved in community service at every level, be it serving in leadership roles, volunteering with numerous organizations, or even serving on the school board. And it's that history of personal philanthropy, volunteerism and community service that makes Ron and Sue confident that their children will be well-suited to carry on Paulson Electric's legacy in that regard."
2. Conlon Construction, Dubuque "While his family's construction company has contributed to the building of some of the community's iconic edifices during the past century, Conlon, 75, of Dubuque, has helped build the community's arts and humanitarian infrastructure, contributing to the operations and growth of dozens of nonprofits while steering major annual and capital campaigns to successful completions."
3. Standard Distribution, Cedar Falls "A local family of multi-generational University of Northern Iowa graduates have announced a major donation to create a vibrant future for Panther Athletics. Stan Poe along with his son Andy and daughter Katy (Harbaugh) - owners of Cedar Falls-based logistics company Standard Distribution - have committed a leadership gift toward the historic renovation of the UNI-Dome."

Family businesses are integral to Iowa's economy, contributing significantly to job creation (almost 80% of all new jobs), GDP (55%), and community development. Their ability to adapt, coupled with strong generational continuity, ensures that they remain a vital part of the state's economic landscape. By supporting local communities and maintaining economic stability, family businesses help foster a robust and resilient economy in Iowa.

We are excited to invite multigenerational family businesses to the Fourth Annual Iowa Family Business Conference, hosted by the University of Northern Iowa Family Business Center. This event will take place on November 6, 2024, at the Krause Gateway Center in Des Moines - more at https://unifamilybusinesscenter.com/2024-conference.

If you are a member of a multi-generational family business, we invite you to join us for a day of insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and expert-led sessions designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by family businesses.

Dan Beenken

UNI Family Business Center