Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate’s Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking initiative was recognized by the National Association of Secretaries of State as one of three finalists for the Innovation, Dedication, Excellence & Achievement in Service Award. The award recognizes “significant state contributions to the mission” of the national secretaries of state group. “It is an honor to be nationally recognized as a finalist for this award, but it is our real hope that more awareness helps eliminate this horrific crime,” Pate said in a news release. “Collaboration is key in combating trafficking, and I am pleased that more than 10 states have expressed an interest in replicating IBAT in their state. Together we have the ability to not only raise awareness about human trafficking but also work to end it.” The program provides businesses with resources and education about human trafficking to empower employees and customers to help prevent and stop trafficking. Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking launched in January 2021 and now includes 700 businesses, as well as more than 325,000 employees across Iowa.