NEW events
Agribusiness Summitt
This summit is designed to unite farmers, industry experts and community leaders around the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping our local agricultural sector. While Wapello County has a deep and proud farming heritage, agriculture has not always been the primary focus of economic development conversations. Yet the industry remains the backbone of our local and regional economy, impacting everything from food production and supply chains to land stewardship and community vitality.
Recognizing this, GOPIP is stepping forward to shine a spotlight on agriculture and create a platform for meaningful dialogue, knowledgesharing, and collaboration. At its core, the Agribusiness Summit is about ensuring that both seasoned farmers and the next generation of agricultural leaders have access to the insights and resources they need to thrive.
Sessions will focus on generational farming, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities that come with passing farms and agribusinesses from one generation to the next. Discussions will explore succession planning, changing market dynamics and the evolving tools that can help families preserve both their land and their legacy.
Equally important, the summit will serve as a hub for the distribution of practical agricultural facts and resources. By bridging the gap between policy, industry innovation, and on-the-ground experience, the summit is designed to ensure Wapello County farmers are equipped with the tools they need to make informed decisions in an increasingly complex landscape.
The launch of the Agribusiness Summit reflects a renewed commitment: to honor our farming legacy, support today’ s producers, and build a stronger agricultural future for generations to come. Agriculture will be recognized as essential to Wapello County’ s prosperity. With its focus on generational farming, resource-sharing, and collaborative problem-solving, the Agribusiness Summit is more than an event— it’ s the beginning of a new chapter in how our community values and supports its agricultural roots. Farmers, families and industry leaders alike are invited to join in shaping the future of Wapello County agriculture, together.
Legislative Summit
The launch of the Legislative Summit is designed to bring together business leaders, community partners, and elected officials for a day of meaningful dialogue about the policies, challenges and opportunities that will shape the future of our region.
At the heart of the summit is the chance to hear directly from local legislators. With the legislative session in full swing, attendees will gain firsthand insight into the issues currently under debate— from workforce development and infrastructure investments to tax policy, education, and healthcare. These conversations offer a unique window into how decisions made at the state level directly affect our communities, businesses, and everyday lives.
Another highlight of the day will be the chance to connect with advocacy groups working on key regional and statewide issues. These organizations bring expertise and networks that can help amplify local voices and ensure that the unique needs of our community are represented. By fostering these connections, the summit builds stronger bridges between grassroots concerns and statewide action.
Equally important is the collaborative environment the summit creates. Business leaders will be able to share how legislative priorities impact local industries. Community partners can highlight the challenges they see on the ground, from housing to healthcare access. GOPIP staff will facilitate meaningful dialogue, giving community leaders a platform to highlight the issues where advocacy is most needed— creating space for dialogue that is both candid and solution-focused. In this way, the summit is not just about information— it’ s about building partnerships that move our region forward.
The Legislative Summit reflects a growing recognition that economic development doesn’ t happen in isolation. Policies matter. Voices matter. And when business, community and government leaders sit at the same table, the potential for progress grows exponentially.
By the end of the day, participants will walk away not only with a clearer understanding of the legislative landscape but also with stronger relationships, new tools for advocacy, and a shared sense of purpose. Together, we can ensure that our region’ s priorities are heard and that the policies shaping our future reflect the values and needs of the people who call this place home.
DECEMBER
15-21
Ottumwa WinterFest
Ottumwa is welcoming the holiday season with a sparkling new tradition— Ottumwa Winter est! This reimagined celebration keeps the heart of community spirit alive while adding fresh experiences designed to dazzle and delight.
The centerpiece of the festival is a brand new outdoor ice rink, where skaters of all ages can lace up and glide into the season. Whether you’ re a pro or a first timer, it’ s the perfect setting for laughter, memories, and maybe even a few wobbly spins. Inside the Southeast Iowa JBS Sports Center, a lively vendor market will showcase local makers and small businesses. From handmade gifts and festive décor to seasonal treats, it’ s a one-stop shop for holiday treasures with a personal touch.
And of course, it wouldn’ t be WinterFest without a visit from Santa Claus. He’ ll be bringing along his 4-H elves to host a cheerful crafts workshop, giving children the chance to create their own holiday keepsakes. Families can also slow the pace and soak up the season with lighted carriage rides that feel straight out of a holiday storybook.
Adding even more excitement, the Iowa Heartlanders Hockey Team will join in on the fun, spreading cheer and local pride. Pair all that with a lineup of food trucks serving delicious foods and sweet seasonal bites, and you’ ve got a festival that satisfies every sense.
With the tagline“ Ice, Lights, and Local Delights,” Ottumwa WinterFest is set to bring families and friends together, drawing visitors from across the region to celebrate the season. It’ s more than just a holiday event— it’ s a new way to create traditions, share joy, and experience the magic of the holidays in Ottumwa.
GOPIP Investor Directory 2025-26
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