Drake University’s Zimpleman College of Business will host the 2026 Business for Good Summit on , bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders to explore the intersection of profitability and positive societal impact. The event, scheduled from 8:00 a.m. To 1:30 p.m. At the Drake Olmsted Center in Des Moines, Iowa, aims to examine how businesses can effectively pursue both financial success and meaningful social and environmental contributions.
The summit’s agenda is designed to provide attendees with insights into a range of topics crucial for building businesses that prioritize purpose alongside performance. Sessions will cover ethical leadership, sustainability practices, and innovative approaches to addressing pressing challenges like affordable housing – specifically, carbon-neutral models. A significant focus will also be placed on the role of financial cooperatives in driving mission-driven initiatives.
The event’s format includes a series of breakout sessions offering focused discussions on specific areas. Track A sessions on will feature Scott and Molly Cutler of Cutler Development, and later, Julie Willse (COO, Greater Iowa Credit Union), Jaimie Miller (Vice President, Iowa Credit Union League), and Jelena Babic Barnes (Executive Director, Iowa Credit Union Foundation). Track B will host a Business Clinic Entrepreneur Panel and a J.W. Paquette Young Alumni Lecture Series Panel.
The summit will kick off with a welcome and opening session featuring Mariah Mateo Sarpong, Co-founder and Head of Product at SendVia, and Nana Coleman, an Instructor at Zimpleman College of Business. A lunchtime keynote address will be delivered by Kelly Dittmann, Founder, President, & CEO of Envira Global, Ltd.
The Business for Good Summit reflects a growing trend within the corporate world: the increasing recognition that businesses have a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of society and the environment, not just maximize shareholder value. This shift is driven by several factors, including growing consumer demand for socially responsible products and services, increased investor scrutiny of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, and a rising awareness of the long-term risks associated with unsustainable business practices.
The inclusion of sessions focused on financial cooperatives highlights the potential of alternative business models to prioritize social impact. Credit unions, for example, are member-owned institutions that operate on a not-for-profit basis, meaning that any surplus earnings are returned to members in the form of lower loan rates, higher savings rates, and improved services. This structure inherently aligns financial incentives with the needs of the community.
The emphasis on carbon-neutral affordable housing also points to the potential for businesses to address critical social challenges while simultaneously creating new market opportunities. Developing and implementing sustainable building practices can reduce environmental impact, lower operating costs, and improve the quality of life for residents. This approach requires innovation in materials, design, and construction techniques, but it also offers the potential for significant long-term benefits.
Drake University’s Zimpleman College of Business has demonstrated a commitment to fostering this ethos through events like the Business for Good Summit. The college’s dedication is underscored by the generous sponsorship provided by Al Rosenbloom, enabling the event to take place and attract a diverse range of participants.
The summit’s focus on young alumni and local small business owners suggests a desire to cultivate a new generation of purpose-driven entrepreneurs. By providing a platform for these individuals to share their experiences and learn from industry leaders, the event aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable and ethical business practices at the grassroots level.
Registration for the summit is required, and attendance is free, making the event accessible to a wide audience. The event’s organizers hope to inspire attendees to integrate purpose into their business models and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future. The summit’s agenda, available through Eventbrite, provides a detailed overview of the sessions and speakers, allowing potential attendees to tailor their experience to their specific interests.
The 2026 event builds on Drake University’s ongoing commitment to positive change, as evidenced by the successful hosting of the Business for Good Summit in previous years. This continued dedication positions the Zimpleman College of Business as a key player in promoting responsible business practices within the region and beyond.
