Rural Leaders Encouraged to Attend the 2026 Iowa Rural Summit

Communities across Iowa are being invited to come together, share ideas, and spark new opportunities at the 2026 Iowa Rural Summit, taking place April 9–10 in Dubuque.

Hosted by the Iowa Rural Development Council, the summit is celebrating its 10th year as a nationally recognized event focused on strengthening rural communities. The gathering brings together leaders, organizations, and residents who care about the future of Iowa’s small towns and rural regions.

Organizers are encouraging communities to attend as three-person teams, allowing participants to attend multiple sessions and return home with a wide range of ideas and strategies to share locally. Many communities send more than one team, creating opportunities for even broader collaboration and impact.

The two-day summit will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and interactive discussions centered on the challenges and opportunities facing rural Iowa. Topics often include community development, entrepreneurship, workforce, housing, leadership, and creative approaches to strengthening local economies.

In addition to learning from experts and community leaders, the event provides valuable opportunities for networking and collaboration with people from across the state who are working toward similar goals.

Organizers note that local leaders know their communities best and encourage individuals to attend and invite others to join them. Neighboring communities are also encouraged to participate, helping strengthen regional partnerships and idea-sharing.

With its milestone 10th anniversary, this year’s summit aims to continue building momentum for rural innovation and collaboration across Iowa.

There is still time for communities to register a team and participate in this statewide gathering.

More information, including the summit agenda and registration details, can be found at:
https://iowardc.org/summit/