As Central Iowa leaders are required to assess issues and opportunities, both new and existing, at an increasingly quick pace, the Business Record strives to keep a pulse on the top issues and conversations happening across the region’s business community. 

To begin 2026, we completed our annual Trends to Watch survey, asking our audience and key members of the Central Iowa business, nonprofit and civic communities what trends to watch and how they might shape the news over the next 12 months. Readers submitted responses describing a trend they see coming in their industry or the community in 2026.

Several responses identified emerging trends around artificial intelligence as it and its effects became more tangible to organizations this year, as some leaders suggested in the 2025 survey. 

The technology’s early effects on business operations and markets came into view, along with its more abstract impacts on workforce and business ethics and law. 

We also received input on ongoing discussions that leaders said require more attention or creative solutions. They range from a holistic approach to workforce challenges to viewing regional collaboration as a strategic necessity to ensure economic stability and advance solutions to issues such as food insecurity, housing and water quality.

We hope these responses are a resource as you and your organization begin the new year.

Responses have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Sustainability in events

Over the past year, we have seen a greater emphasis on increased sustainability for events hosted at the Iowa Events Center. We think that trend will continue as meeting planners make sustainability a part of their meeting RFPs and ensure that the venue is focused on recycling, landfill diversion, using local products and activating a food rescue program to fight food insecurity. Because of this trend we recently became a member of GOAL [Green Operations and Advanced Leadership], which is a pioneering sustainability-driven membership and support network for sports, entertainment and event venues. GOAL provides environmental data analysis, sustainability strategy and partnership advice that we can then share with our meeting clients to ensure we are all utilizing best practices.

– Chris Connolly, general manager, Oak View Group – Iowa Events Center

BANKING AND FINANCE

2026 mortgage forecast

We think long-term fixed rates will stay mostly steady in 2026 as short-term rates continue to fall slightly with downward movements in Fed funds. Affordability for homeownership looks to increase slightly in 2026 as income levels look to increase slightly as rates slowly decrease.

– Robert Hartwig, president, Iowa Bankers Mortgage Corp.

Safekeeping and deployment of public funds

Iowa has long had extensive rules in place regarding the safekeeping of public funds, our taxpayer dollars. There are rules regarding which financial institutions they can be kept in, and how they must be insured and protected. However, when public entities such as school boards, cities and counties invest taxpayer dollars in joint investment trusts, those funds end up outside the scope of these rules and the protections they offer. Additionally, if those funds were held as bank deposits in local institutions, that money could turn over in our economy, unleashing an estimated $2 billion to be deployed in our Iowa communities, funding loans for small businesses, homeowners and farmers. Our rural communities in particular need economic growth, capital and investment. I expect a robust discussion around how we can use existing resources in Iowa to support economic growth and opportunity.

– Adam Gregg, president and CEO, Iowa Bankers Association

Y2K revisited?

History doesn’t repeat, but often rhymes. Everything “AI” is eerily similar from the late 90s and early 2000s No. 1 smash hit “internet and e-commerce.” Pets.com anyone? It took a recession in the early 2000s with a 70% wipeout in the Nasdaq fueled by young and not-so-young traders discounting future cash-flows in unproven business plans to “buzz” light years ahead. [It was] compounded by massive borrowings in the fiber build-out to handle the imminent digital traffic,  which took two decades to fully play out. What is often left unsaid is that traditional value and cyclical stocks and industries outperformed growth for close to a decade following this crash, although a handful of winners took all the cake in tech over the next 20 years. 2026 will be the year where we likely see a mean reversion in the MAG7 and friends as well as a second look at the beaten down and less loved sectors (sort of everything else not tangential to AI). Hold on tight: This roller coaster will be a harrowing ride, but in the end we don’t get innovation without some volatility (and heartbreak for many) along the way. AI will undoubtedly increase efficiencies in many lives and industries; it is quite likely that it will just take a decade or more to more fully realize its ultimate potential as Wall Street (and Robin Hooders everywhere) bet on “next week.”

– Eric Lohmeier, president, NCP Inc.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Regional prioritization of workforce housing

Workforce housing continues to gain momentum as a top regional priority. Leaders across the public, private and nonprofit sectors are increasingly emphasizing its importance and influence on Central Iowa’s workforce growth, transportation, education and quality of life.

This growing focus is reflected in the 2026 priorities of major regional entities, including the Greater Des Moines Partnership and United Way of Central Iowa. It’s also driving new collaboration and innovative partnerships to expand the region’s housing supply, such as the Walnut Crossing development with the city of Waukee and Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity.

Capital Crossroads will continue working with partners to educate, advocate and build the resources needed for informed regional efforts. In 2025, the rollout of the Polk County Housing Trust Fund’s federally backed housing database provided a valuable tool already being used by local governments and nonprofit organizations. In 2026, stakeholders can expect new data dashboards, research on greenfield and infill development opportunities, and educational convenings to further strengthen regional understanding and planning around workforce housing needs.

Together, these efforts signal a clear trend for 2026: Regional partners are aligning around workforce housing as a cornerstone of Central Iowa’s future growth and prosperity.

– Kaity Patchett, executive director, Capital Crossroads

Leadership by design: Driving innovation, talent and collaboration in 2026

Collaborative leadership that prioritizes innovation and the intentional use of emerging technologies will continue to drive economic growth in Greater Des Moines in 2026. As artificial intelligence, automation and digital tools enhance industries, successful organizations will pair technology adoption with people-centered strategies that upskill talent and attract the next generation of workers.

This evolution will call for agile, forward-looking leaders who bring fresh perspectives and lead collaboratively to unite business, education, government and community partners. This unified ecosystem will align innovation, economic development, talent development and quality of life initiatives, while public-private-nonprofit collaboration drives pro-growth policies, catalytic investment projects and further strengthens the regional business climate.

This trend aligns directly with the Partnership’s 2026 priorities to position Greater Des Moines as a center of innovation excellence by leveraging emerging technologies, including AI, as a competitive regional strength. By building confidence and capability, the region can readily adapt to change and take the lead in using innovation to strengthen our economy and workforce. As leadership evolves, the Partnership will continue to connect emerging and established leaders to ensure collaboration, continuity and long-term regional impact.

– Tiffany Tauscheck, president and CEO, Greater Des Moines Partnership

Economic development

Communities will likely need to be more thoughtful about the types of industries they try to attract. With limited resources, growing NIMBYism concerns and understandable worries about change, economic developers will need to spend more time listening to residents and clearly explaining why certain projects make sense. Helping people understand the real economic and community benefits can build trust and lead to better, more informed conversations about growth.

– Ryan Moffatt, community and economic development director, city of West Des Moines

Reaching new heights in development

I believe that Des Moines and the Central Iowa area are coming into 2026 with sights set on how we continue to make the Des Moines Metro the best place to live, work and play. In Des Moines, we’re looking forward to future growth of  the soccer stadium complex, Market District and 515 Walnut. These projects make Des Moines a destination for shopping and entertainment and provide employment and additional housing options. We’re excited not only to discover how this large scale development impacts our city, but what other developments it will attract to the region.

– Connie Boesen, mayor, city of Des Moines

EDUCATION

Graduate education access at risk

One trend to watch in 2026 is the unintended impact of recent changes to federal graduate student loan limits, particularly the narrowing of which programs qualify as “professional” and therefore eligible for higher borrowing caps.

These changes are already affecting student decision-making and program sustainability. Many critical, workforce-aligned graduate programs — including physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, education, and counseling — no longer qualify for higher limits, despite strong employment outcomes and essential public-good value.

The result is a growing access challenge, especially for first-generation, working-adult, and/or lower-income students who rely on graduate credentials for career mobility. For health care, the timing is especially concerning. Iowa — particularly rural Iowa — faces persistent shortages of providers, therapists and allied health professionals. Reduced access to financing may further constrain the pipeline at a moment of peak need.

Institutions are being forced to reconsider pricing, program design and in some cases the long-term viability of mission-critical graduate offerings. At the same time, the educators in these sectors are highly educated and experienced and deserve to be compensated accordingly.

For Iowa’s economy and communities, this matters. Advanced education fuels workforce readiness, economic vitality and access to care. As these policy shifts unfold, business, education and civic leaders must pay close attention to how financing decisions shape who can pursue advanced training — and who cannot.

– Rachelle Keck, president, Grand View University

Youth education

More parents are turning away from public schools and entering into the private sector. Why is this happening or is it just happening in DMPS? There is a new school in the old Franklin building that was recently sold to an out-of-state company. [There are] a few new charter schools that have opened (Glen Oaks, Empigo Academy).

– Kourtney Perry, CEO, Privacy LLC

AI ethics in business

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape today’s business landscape, the ethical challenges and risks it presents remains a big challenge. Apart from the notion that consumer trust is emerging as the “new currency” in an AI-driven economy, businesses could face massive financial and legal risks if they are not focused on ethical AI. To be ready, businesses need to develop leadership roles so they can oversee AI ethics and integrate governance directly into daily operations, remain proactive in identifying bias and “drift” in models before they lead to public or legal fallout, and most importantly, invest in AI literacy within their organizations.

– Raj Agnihotri, Raisbeck endowed dean, Ivy College of Business, Iowa State University

Integrating skills and education in a future-ready workforce

The next evolution of workforce development will center on tighter alignment, including colleges embedding industry-relevant skills into academic programs, employers partnering in curriculum design and experiential learning, K-12 systems strengthening pathways to postsecondary success and workforce systems ensuring employment opportunities are accessible and navigable.

Employers will continue to seek clearly demonstrated competencies to meet workforce demands, and communities will move beyond the false choice of continuous learning versus employment, recognizing that long-term economic growth depends on integrating both. Higher education institutions and K-12 systems will remain central engines for developing critical skills that endure beyond any single job or technology. Degrees, credentials, internships and apprenticeships will function as complementary tools for talent development.

For Greater Des Moines, the opportunity in 2026 is to position education as a priority by investing in systems and institutions that help both employers and employees prepare, produce and pivot across decades of career mobility.

– Skylar Mayberry-Mayes, executive director, the Jacobson Institute at Grand View University

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

The need to expand Iowa’s capacity to train tomorrow’s health professions workforce

A defining trend for 2026 will be Iowa’s increasing need to expand and modernize the clinical training pipeline for future health professionals. As new academic programs emerge, competition grows and accreditation standards evolve, the demand for high-quality training opportunities in hospitals and clinics continues to rise. At the same time, limited funding for expanding graduate medical education and persistent financial and reimbursement pressures make it difficult for health systems to support additional learners while meeting patient demand.

Across the state, education and health care organizations are responding with new approaches to preparing the workforce. Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, for example, has earned accreditation to serve as a sponsoring institution under the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, allowing us to work to launch residency and fellowship programs to keep graduates practicing in Iowa. Similarly, the DMU Regional Simulation Center is providing high-immersion training environments that strengthen clinical readiness before students enter clinical settings. 

While the challenges are significant, the opportunity is greater. By aligning universities, health systems and state and community partners around shared goals, Iowa can build a sustainable pipeline of providers prepared to meet the state’s health needs and improve health care delivery.

– Angela Franklin, president and CEO, Des Moines University Medicine and Health Science

Health care’s next leap: Collaboration that counts

Health care is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by technology and innovation. Artificial intelligence will reshape how providers deliver care, but true transformation requires more than technology. It demands systems-level thinking and bold collaboration to create a comprehensive network that elevates centers of excellence, maximizes resources, and improves outcomes. 

Today’s health care system spans preventive care, acute services, specialty medicine, rehabilitation, behavioral health, and community-based care. For patients, especially those with complex diagnoses, navigating the health care landscape can be overwhelming. Collaboration isn’t optional; it’s essential. 

In Iowa, economic pressures and rural geography make collaborative care even more critical. Pediatric health care in Iowa offers a clear example: ChildServe — our state’s only pediatric specialty hospital, in partnership with children’s hospitals at the University of Iowa, Blank, and MercyOne, is advocating for improved access and funding. Together, as the Pediatric Health care Collaborative, we can transform pediatric care in Iowa, building a stronger, more resilient system that meets today’s needs and drives better outcomes tomorrow.

– Dr. Teri Wahlig, president and CEO, ChildServe

HOSPITALITY

Hospitality will invest in new ways to get Gen Z out and gathering

Customers — especially Gen Z — will continue to eat differently and at different times of day, and that will shape restaurant decisions in 2026. With more GLP-1 use, less alcohol consumption and less traditional schedules, hospitality will invest in new ways to get younger customers back out and gathering — through flexible menus, smaller portions, shareables and a stronger focus on brunch and snack occasions.

– Jessica Dunker, president and CEO, Iowa Restaurant Association

HR AND LEADERSHIP

Succession planning

As the number of experienced leaders approaching retirement continues to grow, organizations are increasingly recognizing that succession planning is not optional. It is essential. Proactively identifying and training successors for mid-level and senior roles builds a deep, resilient talent bench and reduces leadership risk. In an era of accelerating change, where organizations face challenges and opportunities unlike any encountered before, effective leadership is a competitive advantage. AI will increasingly handle tasks that are data-heavy, repetitive or pattern-based and will act as a valued strategic assistant but the most critical leadership work will remain deeply human. Developing people, resolving conflict, building culture and leading through uncertainty require leadership and emotional intelligence.

– Rowena Crosbie, president, Tero International Inc.

The rise of purpose-driven collaboration

Regional collaboration has set our community apart and is what will continue building momentum for the future. When communities face challenges that are bigger than any single organization — whether housing availability, food insecurity, access to child care, or arts and culture — we have choices. We can stay in our own lanes and do what we can alone. We can wait for someone else to step forward. Or we can choose to come together.

In 2026, I believe more leaders will intentionally choose collaboration — not as a feel-good gesture, but as a strategic necessity. The best solutions tend to surface when people with different roles, expertise and vantage points are willing to work alongside one another and share responsibility for the outcome. That kind of collaboration is already gaining momentum, and it’s needed now more than ever.

This mindset is one reason Bankers Trust is dedicating time to exploring Central Iowa’s most pressing community issues by evolving our “Community Difference Makers” podcast in partnership with United Way of Central Iowa. By highlighting the work already underway, what is yet to come and the impact that is possible when people work together, we hope to encourage continued collaboration that helps our entire community thrive.

– Emily Abbas, executive vice president and chief consumer banking and marketing officer, Bankers Trust Co.

INSURANCE AND INVESTMENTS

Embracing the tech-enabled employee

Technology is impacting our businesses and employees at an unprecedented rate, and this will only increase in the future. By embracing and empowering the “tech-enabled employee,” we stand to gain efficiencies, catalyze innovation and encourage an entrepreneurial mindset.

– Dan Keough, chairman and CEO, Holmes Murphy

Graduate exodus

The increasing trend by employers to limit hiring by opting for AI agents to solve entry-level or customer-facing work is likely to cause graduates from the state’s colleges and universities to seek cities and states with greater employment (and possibly entrepreneurial) opportunities.  Though exodus may drop to other AI-heavy states like California, other states are likely to win our graduates.

– Tej Dhawan, managing director, Plains Angels

Bringing together people, technology and culture

In 2026 and beyond, culture will play a key role in moving us from accepting emerging technologies to excitement and possibilities. Successful leaders will need to bring people, technology and culture together. At Delta Dental, we foster an environment where collaboration thrives and every voice feels valued. As technology and AI are transforming the way we work, we know this is not a replacement for human connection. These are the tools and resources that will help us deliver smarter, faster and more personalized experiences.

It is not just about technology; it is the culture that binds these forces together. It shapes how we adapt to change, how we innovate and how we stay true to our mission. A strong culture fosters trust, accountability and resilience — qualities that matter more than ever in our rapidly evolving world. By investing in authentic communication, continuous learning and shared values, we empower our teams.

– April Schmaltz, president and CEO, Delta Dental of Iowa

MANUFACTURING AND LOGISTICS

Continued turbulence

The turbulence experienced on both a national and international scale in 2025 has not subsided as we end the year. I predict that a turbulent U.S. economy as well as continued geopolitical problems will lead to a seesaw 2026. The year will be highlighted by unanticipated U.S. economic challenges and international turbulence.

– Chris Nelson, president and CEO, Kemin Industries

NONPROFITS AND PHILANTHROPY

Collaboration that builds stronger community

For more than 55 years, the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines has strengthened our region’s nonprofit infrastructure. This past year underscored the reality that nonprofits are essential to Central Iowa’s economic stability — ensuring food and housing security, supporting workforce well-being through mental health services, and sustaining the arts and cultural amenities that fuel talent attraction and retention.

As demands increase and resources tighten, collaboration is becoming the strategic imperative for 2026. Nonprofits are aligning operations, consolidating back-office functions, sharing talent and leveraging joint data and technology systems to improve efficiency and scale.

While many nonprofits are funded to address specific needs, collaboration allows them to integrate services and reduce duplication — ultimately delivering a stronger return on community investment.

The path forward requires cross-sector partnership. Nonprofits, businesses, government and philanthropy must work together to build sustainable organizations that strengthen our regional economy and deliver measurable impact for the communities we serve.

– Kristi Knous, president, Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines

Status-quo discourse around water quality will be disrupted

The state of Iowa is ready for productive, solutions-focused conversations around water quality, which is why the conventional “us versus them” discourse will be disrupted. In its place will be radical cross-sector collaboration that activates lasting solutions for the benefit of our water, soil, and people. Iowa’s water quality impacts public health, economic development, recreational opportunities, quality of living and more. In 2025, it rose to the mainstream consciousness, no longer a niche issue of concern. In 2026, I’m confident that all Iowans are ready to act with strategies that unite us — not divide us. We’ve come to realize that the time to hide behind our ideologies is past us — the time to stand together is here. 

– Hannah Inman, CEO, Great Outdoors Foundation

Giving back (almost) anytime and anywhere

Whether through time, talent or treasure, people are looking for flexible opportunities to give back in ways that fit their skillsets and lifestyles. One size does not fit all. Bite-sized volunteer opportunities, personalized experiences, “donate now” options across multiple platforms and recurring gifts are just some of the ways supporters are looking to help. Giving back has become not just a nice thing to do, but a meaningful way to connect with others, develop leadership skills and build stronger communities. No one can do everything, but every single person can do something to make a difference. Mister Rogers taught us long ago to “look for the helpers,” and I am encouraged by the growing number of volunteers, donors and helpers who not only want to do good, but are seeking new and creative ways in which they can contribute.

– Tami Nielsen, CEO, Food Bank of Iowa

Philanthropy is growing

Americans donated an estimated $592.5 billion to U.S. charities in 2024 based on the latest Giving USA report, a 6.3% increase in current dollars over the previous year and a 3.3% increase after adjusting for inflation. 

Individuals remained the largest source of philanthropy, giving roughly $392 billion, and their contributions increased both in nominal and inflation-adjusted terms.

Anecdotally, we as industry experts have seen that continue to grow in the past year. While the number of total givers is going down, those who have the ability are giving more. Expect to see bigger and bigger charitable gifts in 2026.

– Eric Heininger, president, EDEN+ Fundraising Consulting

REAL ESTATE AND DEVELOPMENT

Reconfiguration of ‘office’ and rise of alternative asset types

With office demand still adjusting after the pandemic, many outdated buildings are finding new life. Conversions into residential units, mixed-use environments, life-science facilities and creative spaces are becoming a key strategy for unlocking value and meeting evolving market needs. These adaptive-reuse projects not only help reduce vacancy in struggling office corridors but also introduce new activity, foot traffic and long-term stability to surrounding neighborhoods. For cities facing housing shortages or underutilized business districts, repurposing older office buildings can serve as a catalyst for broader revitalization, attracting new residents, retail and services.

As financing and construction costs remain high, adaptive reuse is increasingly viewed as a more cost-effective and sustainable alternative to ground-up development. By working within existing structures, owners can shorten timelines, reduce material-related emissions and deliver spaces that better align with shifting tenant expectations. This trend is expected to accelerate as investors, municipalities and developers seek innovative ways to reposition aging office stock for the next generation of urban demand.

– Chloe Bratvold, director of business development, WB Realty Co.

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

Increased integration of technology and AI

Technology and AI are becoming game-changers in casino gaming. Guests are increasingly looking for experiences that feel personalized and interactive, and technology makes that possible. From smarter analysis of game play to assist us with recognizing our customers’ preferences to loyalty programs that recognize what incentives make our guests choose us; AI can help make every visit a fun, customized experience.

Behind the scenes, technology is also improving efficiency and security, allowing team members to focus more on hospitality and community and player engagement. AI tools can help streamline operations and improve customer service through faster response times.

In summary, technology allows casinos to evolve beyond traditional gaming floors into entertainment destinations that blend gaming, racing, dining and live events into one connected experience. As guests’ expectations continue to rise due to increased competition of the entertainment dollar, the integration of technology and AI is critical to creating amazing experiences that keep guests engaged.

– Brian Ohorilko, president and CEO, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino

Investment in innovation

We’ve all heard how the rapid rise of AI has captured the attention of leaders wondering how to best leverage this technology for their businesses. While some companies jumped in quickly, many businesses have taken a more cautious approach. As we enter 2026, more and more businesses of all sizes will invest in innovation – not only through increasing and embracing the use of AI, but also in creating dedicated teams to support and guide them in this area. 

That’s what we’ve done at Bankers Trust, where our recently formed Enterprise Innovation Center brings together AI, automation, product and project management expertise to ensure the bank is building a solid foundation upon which we can then scale these constantly evolving technologies. As a result, we are better positioned to support employees with tools that make their work more efficient and effective, and continue implementing forward-looking and best-in-class products and services for customers.

– Tina Smith-Fritz, executive vice president and chief operations officer, Bankers Trust Co.

Data, privacy and technology governance

In 2026, organizations across every industry, including educational institutions, will face a critical turning point in how they manage data, privacy and technology. The rapid adoption of AI and digital tools, often without clear guardrails, governance models or ethical frameworks, has created significant vulnerability. Many teams are using dozens of platforms with minimal oversight, leading to data leaks, compliance gaps and inconsistent security practices. As AI systems become more embedded in operations, the legal landscape will intensify: Expect an increase in lawsuits, regulatory action and public scrutiny tied to biased algorithms, unsafe data handling, copyright misuse and poorly deployed tech solutions.

This trend pushes institutions to build adaptive strategies rooted in accountability, transparency and responsible innovation. Strong governance structures — including clear data policies, AI risk assessments, privacy protocols and unified technology ecosystems — will no longer be optional. Companies, nonprofits and governments that invest early in AI ethics, compliance planning and cross-functional oversight will be far better positioned than those reacting after a crisis.The winners of 2026 will be organizations that pair innovation with discipline.

– Nancy Mwirotsi, founder and executive director, Pi515

TRANSPORTATION

Businesses and multifamily residential developers are embracing bicycles as a form of transportation 

As the city of Des Moines follows its Vision Zero plan and Complete Streets strategies, installs traffic calming in neighborhoods and supports bike infrastructure like bike lanes and racks, the marketplace is responding with indoor bike storage as a key amenity to attract top talent and residents.

– Carol Maher, founder, Ride On Des Moines