Central Iowa Business Conference
Date and Time
Thursday May 21, 2026
8:00 PM - 5:00 PM CDT
Location
Meadows Event Center
1 Prairie Meadows Dr. | Altoona, IA
Description
Lead. Shift. Transform. | “Empowering Change for a Better Future” encapsulates a journey of proactive leadership, adaptive evolution, and purposeful transformation. In a world of constant flux, this conference calls for leaders to take decisive action, harnessing the power of change rather than reacting to it. By shifting perspectives, embracing new technologies, and addressing generational and economic shifts, we can redefine traditional pathways and inspire fresh approaches. Through transformation, businesses can create meaningful, sustainable progress that empowers both individuals and communities, paving the way for a better, more resilient future. The Central Iowa Business Conference drives attendees to not only anticipate change but to lead it, fostering a culture of empowerment that champions long-term, impactful success in our business communities.
The Central Iowa Business Conference is proud to announce the three special keynote speakers who will highlight the 2026 event:
Richard Bryan brings a wealth of experience in business leadership and succession planning. His leadership journey began at the deep end of the pool when he found himself running his family’s business after his father was forced to retire due to an illness. Richard is passionate about helping leaders build cohesive, high-performing teams with predictable business growth and profitability.
Alexandra Hudson is the founder of Civic Renaissance, a publication and community dedicated to beauty, goodness and truth. She is passionate about storytelling in a way that changes people’s lives. Alexandra has advised foreign governments — from The Parliament of Canada to the UK House of Lords — and regularly speaks at venues such as Stanford University or Yale Law School. In a time of growing division, the workplace has become one of our most important civic spaces. Alexanda will connect civility and civic renewal to leadership, culture, and the everyday interactions that shape how we work together.
Brandon Carlson is the founder of Lean TECHniques, a technology and management consultancy, specializing in Digital Transformation, IT Modernization and Software Delivery. Brandon values curiosity and collaboration over facts and has been on his learning journey in technology for more than 30 years. Operationalizing AI in the workplace means moving beyond curiosity to real, day-to-day application. Brandon delivers interactive, hands-on insights that help teams adopt AI tools in practical ways that drive efficiency and measurable impact.
Don’t miss your chance to hear from these unique keynote speakers, attend memorable breakout sessions, and connect with other business professionals at the Central Iowa Business Conference on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
Learn more about the conference HERE!
