In The News
Indianola Selected as Premier Destination for
Three Highly Anticipated Group Events
For Immediate Release:
Indianola, IA – June 26, 2023
Indianola, a city known for its big experiences and its small-town feel, has been selected as the premier host for three exciting group events. The Indianola Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Simpson College and community partners, have positioned the city as the ideal fit and were selected through Request for Proposals processes for the following exciting events:
CITR Travel Iowa Marketplace, November 2, 2023: Indianola is proud to announce its selection as the host city for the CITR Travel Iowa Marketplace. This premier event and tradeshow serves as a platform for tourism professionals, travel industry experts, and meeting and tour planners to connect, collaborate, and promote the diverse attractions and experiences that Iowa communities have to offer. Simpson College’s Hubbell Hall and Principal Black Box Theater will provide the meeting space and catering for the event. It is expected that close to forty exhibitors and 125 travel professionals will be in attendance.
CITR Travel Iowa Marketplace Familiarization Tour, November 1, 2023: In conjunction with the CITR Travel Iowa Marketplace, Indianola was also selected to host the Central Iowa Travel Marketplace FAM (Familiarization) Tour. This exclusive tour will provide influential meeting planners, and industry insiders with an immersive experience of Indianola's hidden gems, cultural treasures, and captivating experiences. Participants will have the opportunity to experience Indianola and all that it has to offer, gaining firsthand knowledge to promote Indianola as a must-visit destination.
Iowa Association of Chamber of Commerce Fall Conference, October 2025: Indianola has been selected as the destination for the prestigious Iowa Association of Chamber of Commerce Fall Conference for 2025. This premier gathering will bring together chamber executives, business leaders, and professionals from across the state to share best practices, engage in informative sessions, and network with like-minded individuals. The convention, hosted at Simpson College, will offer a diverse range of keynote speakers, workshops, and panel discussions, and bring an expected seventy attendees into the community for a special event.
Mayor Stephanie Erickson expressed her enthusiasm at Indianola being chosen as the host city for these significant group events. She stated, "We are thrilled to welcome participants from across Iowa and beyond to our remarkable city. Indianola's warm hospitality, amazing visitor assets, and ideal convention facilities make it an ideal choice for these sizes of events. We are eager to showcase our vibrant community and provide an unforgettable experience for all attendees."
Amanda Zwanziger, President of the Indianola Chamber of Commerce, indicated that this is just the beginning of what will be big business for Indianola, “So far, we are three for three in winning Requests for Proposals for group events and that goes to show how much interest there is in visiting Indianola. Combining that interest with our strong partnership with Simpson College, it makes us the perfect fit for the small and medium-sized group event industry. I spent years in the corporate event business, and I know that we have what it takes to continue to appeal to the meetings and events industry.”
Ben Nielsen, General Manager of Simpson College’s Dining and Conference Services elaborated, “We are excited to welcome these groups to Simpson College and believe that the experience we will create for these visitors will leave as lasting of an impression as the community of Indianola. We look forward to our continued partnership with the Indianola Chamber to bring more of these group events here.”
Zwanziger went on to share how important these types of events are to our community, “When we have visitors coming to this community, spending on hotel stays and, in our businesses, it not only supports the local business community, but the taxes we collect pour right back into our economy. If we continue to build in this niche market of group events, we will be able to reinvest that spend back into making our community better.”
For more information on Indianola, the upcoming events, and visitor resources, please visit www.indianolachamber.com.
About Indianola:
Indianola is a vibrant and inviting city nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Iowa, offering visitors a captivating experience that blends small-town charm with big experiences. With a welcoming community and a host of exciting events and activities, the city provides an immersive escape for all. Explore the historic downtown, filled with boutique shops, quaint cafés, and local libations that showcase the city's flavors and hospitality. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Indianola through its parks, trails, and Lake Ahquabi, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers. Or experience one of Indianola’s remarkable events that is sure to leave a lasting impression, including the breathtaking National Balloon Classic, world-renown Des Moines Metro Opera festival, thrilling TruBank Des Moines Disc Golf Challenge, the state’s best county fair, the excitement of Simpson College athletics, as well as other cultural and community celebrations, Indianola promises an unforgettable adventure where locals and visitors create cherished memories together.
Contact: Amanda Zwanziger
515-961-6269
amanda@indianolachamber.com
INDIANOLA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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while enhancing the overall quality of life in our community.
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