Kaitlin Byers | Kiva Lending
As an experienced nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, and grant writer, Kaitlin has worked across multiple disciplines in the nonprofit and startup space. She launched the first statewide Kiva Hub in the nation (Kiva Iowa) in 2021 and continues to oversee the entire borrower, lender, and stakeholder pipeline across the Iowa and Quad Cities markets. Prior to […]
Sandy Steele | Finance & Insurance
Sandy Steele is an Agent and Registered Representative with Farm Bureau Financial Services, where she supports individuals, families, and small businesses in navigating insurance and financial decisions. With more than 29 years of experience in financial services, she specializes in life and health coverage, commercial insurance, and personalized retirement strategies. Drawing on a background in […]
Sam Vassar | Branding & Marketing
Sam Vassar is a native of Swisher, Iowa, and serves as Associate Publisher of College Community Neighbors with Best Version Media. A dedicated community connector, Sam works to highlight local families, businesses, and organizations while building relationships that strengthen the region. Known for his hyper-local approach, he is passionate about supporting those who invest in […]
Fredrikson | Legal
For more than 75 years, Fredrikson has provided strategic legal counsel to clients ranging from startups to multinational corporations across industries including healthcare, financial services, energy, manufacturing and technology. The firm partners closely with clients to deliver practical, business-focused solutions tailored to their goals and challenges. Through a strong commitment to innovation, operational excellence and […]
Paul Heath | Business Coaching – Small Business Development Center
Paul Heath is a seasoned leader and advisor in small business development, bringing over three decades of expertise to his role as Regional Director at the SBDC, part of the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. He is a certified management accountant, a certified business advisor, and a certified public accountant. With a commitment to empowering entrepreneurs […]
Charlie Damschen | Legal Intellectual Property (IP)
As an Intellectual Property attorney at BrownWinick, Charlie Damschen combines a background in engineering, business strategy, and law to help clients protect and grow their innovations. With experience spanning private practice and in-house IP management, he advises clients on patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and technology-related agreements with a practical, business-minded approach. Known for his […]