Become a Leader Who Shapes the Future of Southwest Iowa
A 12-month leadership development program for emerging and established leaders in the region
We understand that many small towns don’t have leadership development programs. Leadership Southwest Iowa is here to fill that gap—bringing together professionals from across the region for growth, networking and impact
📅 2026 Program Schedule
January 21, 2026 5:30PM – Kickoff Networking & Orientation Mixer | Welcome event for participants. Program overview, introductions and networking reception.
Quarterly In-Person Leadership Intensives | Four full-day sessions held across Mills County and the Southwest Iowa region. All in-person sessions are Wednesdays, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Session 1: February 18, 2026 – Foundation & Regional Awareness
Session 2: May 20, 2026 – Economic Development & Business Innovation
Session 3: August 19, 2026 – Government, Policy & Community Systems
Session 4: October 21, 2026 – Leadership Legacy & Future Impact Monthly
Virtual Learning Labs | (2 hours each) 3rd Wednesday of the following months, 12:00 – 2:00 PM
March 18 – Communication & Conflict Resolution
June 17 – Strategic Thinking & Problem Solving
September 16 – Team Dynamics & Collaboration
November 18 – Leading Through Change Leadership
Mastermind Sessions (1.5 hours each) In-Person 8:30-10AM | Peer accountability and collaboration morning, in-person sessions held between intensives and virtual labs:
April 8 – Mid-Quarter Leadership Mastermind
July 8 – Peer Roundtable & Community Project Update
December 10, 2026 – Graduation & Alumni Launch Celebration Participant project presentations, recognition ceremony, and Chamber-hosted celebration.
| Your Investment in Leadership Southwest Iowa |
Leadership Southwest Iowa offers one of the most affordable leadership development experiences in the region.
Comparable programs in larger cities cost two to three times as much.
For employers, this is a cost-effective way to grow your talent, strengthen retention and give your team members valuable networking across Southwest Iowa.
For small business owners and entrepreneurs, it’s an opportunity to step out of the day-to-day, develop leadership skills and make connections that can directly benefit your business.
For individual contributors, whether you’re paying yourself or supported by your employer, this program is an investment in your growth, confidence and long-term career impact.
Leadership Southwest Iowa delivers regional leadership training at a value that works for everyone.
Ready to Lead Southwest Iowa’s Future?
Registrations Open October 1st, 2025 | Deadline: December 15th, 2025
Leadership Southwest Iowa is designed for a diverse group of leaders and future leaders who want to grow, connect and make an impact across the region.
Whether you’re sponsored by your employer or investing in yourself, Leadership Southwest Iowa is for people who are ready to:
✔️ Step into greater leadership roles
✔️ Build meaningful regional connections
✔️ Create positive change for Southwest Iowa
Join The 2026 Leadership Southwest Iowa Class
Why Employers Are Encouraged To Invest…
Supporting your employee’s participation in Leadership Southwest Iowa is more than professional development — it’s an investment in your business and our region.
When your employees grow as leaders, your business grows with them.Brought to you by the Mills County Chamber of Commerce