Ying Sa Wins 2026 Mel Essex Entrepreneur Award

The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has named Ying Sa, the founder and CEO of Community CPA & Associates, Inc., as the recipient of the 2026 Mel Essex Entrepreneur Award. The honor is designed to recognize community champions who have significantly impacted the success of small businesses and inspired others to achieve economic independence.

Sa will be formally honored during the Sixth Annual Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit, presented by Chase. The event is scheduled to take place on April 14–15, 2026, at the Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel.

Professional Background and Firm Growth

Ying Sa established Community CPA in 1998. She has led the firm on a full-time basis since 2008, serving as the founder and Principal Certified Public Accountant.

Under her leadership, Community CPA & Associates, Inc. Provides a comprehensive suite of professional services, including tax, audit, accounting, business consultations, and IT solutions. The firm serves a diverse client base consisting of individuals and businesses across the United States, Canada, and international markets.

Before focusing exclusively on her own firm, Sa held several senior financial leadership positions. She served as the Vice President of Controllers for Wells Fargo Financial, Inc. In Des Moines, Iowa, for five years. She spent six years as the Chief Financial Officer for the Iowa Manufacturing Extension Partnership at Iowa State University.

Educational and International Journey

Sa’s professional trajectory began internationally. Born in Beijing, China, she later became a citizen of Canada and subsequently a citizen of the United States.

She earned her accounting degree in Canada and spent several years working as an accountant within the Canadian market before relocating to Iowa to pursue further career opportunities.

Recognitions and Public Service

Throughout her career, Sa has received multiple state and national accolades for her leadership, professional excellence, and contributions to her community.

• In 2010, she was inducted into the Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame, which is the highest honor for volunteerism in the State of Iowa. This recognition was presented by the Governor and First Lady at the Iowa Capitol.
• In 2016, she received the Iowa Minority Small Business Champion of the Year Award from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
• From 2013 to 2018, she was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Iowa Board of Accountancy.
• Between 2019 and 2022, she was selected to serve on the National Taxpayer Advocacy Panel, an advisory body to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).