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Main Street Entrepreneur Luncheon

Main Street

Entrepreneur Luncheon

/ 12:00-2:00pm

Participants eat locally-sourced or inspired foods.

A short presentation from a local entrepreneur or restaurant owner about their business, what inspired them to start their business, locally-sourced foods, and farm-to-table connection.

Creates conversations that build trust with rural Iowa and generate an understanding of where our food comes from.

 

2023 Ag Ambassadors

Debi Durham: Director of Iowa Economic Development Authority

www.legis.iowa.gov

Debi Durham is a longtime economic and community development professional who serves as Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA). Durham was named to the positions by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds in January 2019.

Durham was first appointed to lead IEDA in 2011, and during her eight-year tenure, has turned the agency into a successful public-private partnership, landed billion-dollar economic development projects for Iowa and worked tirelessly on expanding trade and investment opportunities for the state. She prides herself on building coalitions, supporting new ventures and strengthening the state’s industries and communities.

Prior to joining IEDA, Durham served as president of the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce.

Her several accolades include being recognized as one of the “Most Influential Business Leaders” in the 2019 Des Moines Business Record Book of Lists and receiving the Technology Association of Iowa’s “Legislative Advocacy Leader” award in 2017. Durham also was recognized by the Business Record as a “Woman of Influence” in 2016.

Durham holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Marketing and Management from Missouri Southern State University.

Handlos Family

AUDUBON, IA

The Handlos family has grown and diversified from a small family-farming operation to farming, multimillion dollar truck stop locations, successful catering business and restaurant business. 

Their truckstop locations include Waspy’s in Audubon and Templeton and provide many jobs and economic support in the community.  Two Palms Catering business is widely known in the area for their grilled, smoked meats and home-cooked food.  The Feed Mill Restaurant provides a sit-down meal in the Audubon, Waspy’s location.  Patrons can choose to dine in or carry out.

Pat spoke about overcoming challenges as the family diversified and expanded businesses over the years.

A Special Thank You

IKM-Manning FFA CHAPTER
audubon FFA CHAPTER
REGISTER