WEST DES MOINES, IA (May 30, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is extending the nomination period for Reignite CommUNITY 2025. Applications will be accepted until Friday, June 6, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.
“There are incredible individuals and organizations across Iowa driving real change,” said Kara Matheson, vice president of workforce development & culture for the WDM Chamber. “This extension gives more people the opportunity to highlight their impact and be recognized for their commitment to inclusion and community.”
Nominations will be judged on the following criteria:
Commitment to Inclusion for All
Empowerment of Community & Others
Alignment with WDM Chamber’s community statement
Leadership Involvement (only for Organization or Initiative categories)
Measurable Outcomes
Sustainability & Continuous Improvement
Supporting Statement or Document Submissions
The application enables individuals, organizations, and initiatives to showcase their efforts in building a more inclusive and welcoming community. Applicants must be located in Iowa. One supporting document may be submitted, such as a letter of recommendation or related media.
The 2025 Reignite CommUNITY Awards will honor outstanding contributions across ten categories: Small Business (1–49 employees), Medium Business (50–249 employees), and Large Business (250+ employees), as well as organizations in the Nonprofit, Government, and Education sectors. Individual honors include Leader of the Year (age 40+), Emerging Leader of the Year (39 & under), and Student Leader of the Year. Rounding out the categories is Best Inclusion Initiative, recognizing impactful efforts to advance inclusion in our community.
Those interested in nominating themselves or others for one of the award categories can apply at wdmchamber.org/reignite-community. Additional details about the Reignite CommUNITY Awards can also be found at that link.
Sponsors and partners
Reignite CommUNITY is made possible through the generous support of sponsors and partners dedicated to advancing an inclusive and welcoming community. Supporters include Wellabe, Google Fiber, IMT Insurance, NCMIC, Merchants Bonding Company, Holmes Murphy, MWH Law Group, Triplett Office Solutions, and FE Studios.
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About the WDM Chamber of Commerce
The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, established in 1924, is a dynamic organization dedicated to championing all things West Des Moines. With a focus on strengthening local businesses, providing personalized resources, and attracting a top-tier workforce, the Chamber aims to position WDM as the best suburban city in America. Celebrating a century of excellence, the Chamber boasts a diverse community of over 900 members, offering something for everyone. Explore the possibilities, learn more about the chamber, and discover how you can get involved in shaping the future of West Des Moines at wdmchamber.org.