Iowa Center for Employee Ownership (IA-CEO)
Welcome
The Iowa Center for Employee Ownership (IA-CEO) is the state's premier resource hub dedicated to promoting and expanding employee ownership across Iowa. As a central point of connection, we provide education, resources, and support for businesses interested in exploring employee ownership models, particularly Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), Worker Cooperatives and Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs). Our goal is to empower Iowa businesses, employees, and communities with the knowledge and tools to transition to, or strengthen, broad-based employee ownership.
IA-CEO is proud to be the 21st state center in the Employee Ownership Expansion Network (EOX), a national initiative committed to increasing awareness of the benefits of employee ownership. We operate under the leadership of the University of Northern Iowa's (UNI) Advance Iowa, a program with a strong history of supporting Iowa businesses to achieve their goals.
At the heart of our mission is a commitment to enhancing economic prosperity throughout the state. We believe that by expanding employee ownership, we can help secure the future of Iowa businesses, preserve jobs, and create wealth-building opportunities for workers, all while keeping local economies vibrant and competitive. Through educational programming, expert guidance, and a network of industry professionals, IA-CEO is here to support businesses every step of the way as they explore and implement employee ownership solutions.
Employee Ownership Impact
In this video, learn about the powerful benefits of employee ownership. Discover how employee ownership not only serves as an effective succession plan for business owners but also strengthens local communities by promoting economic resilience. The Iowa Center for Employee Ownership (IA-CEO) is a key resource, providing expert guidance for companies considering the transition to employee ownership. Explore how this model can secure your business's future while empowering employees and contributing to a stronger economy in Iowa.
Video credits: Weicks Media
IA-CEO receives Ford Foundation Grant
Employee Ownership - BY THE NUMBERS
According to a 2023 report published by the NCEO, the average employee at a 100% ESOP-owned S corporation stays with the company for 7.1 years.
2025 Employee Ownership Conference
Mark your calendar now for the 3rd Annual IA-CEO 2025 Employee Ownership Conference! Enjoy the benefits of becoming an event sponsor.
Achieving More Together!
The Iowa Center for Employee Ownership (IA-CEO) has received a significant grant from the Ford Foundation to support its mission of expanding employee ownership across Iowa. This funding will allow IA-CEO to provide more resources, outreach, and education to businesses interested in transitioning to employee ownership models, such as ESOPs. With the Ford Foundation's support, IA-CEO aims to create a more inclusive economy by helping businesses empower their employees and strengthen their communities through shared ownership.
Consortium on Employee Share Ownership
“We recognize growing interest and new generations of scholars, policymakers and practitioners interested in employee share ownership,” said Joseph Blasi, J. Robert Beyster Distinguished Professor and Director of the Rutgers Institute.
Iowa Center for Employee Ownership recognizes, promotes vital role of ESOPs across the state
Recognizing the role employee ownership can play in the vitality of Iowa communities led to the launch in May of the Iowa Center for Employee Ownership (IA-CEO), aimed to support and promote employee ownership among Iowa businesses. ADVANCE IOWA manages IA-CEO operations.
Business Succession Seminar
Succession planning is a critical component of any business's long-term success, yet many business owners and employees often overlook its importance. By developing a strategic plan for transferring ownership and leadership responsibilities, companies can ensure a smooth transition when key stakeholders retire or leave the organization.
During this event, we will discuss the importance of succession planning, hear insights from experts in the field and a panel of business owners who have successfully navigated the process.
Enrollment: Cost to attend is free. A light breakfast and lunch will be included.
Upcoming Events
2025 IA-CEO Employee Ownership Conference
Thu, Oct 23 2025
8:00am - 4:30pm
FFA Enrichment Center - DMACC Campus - 1055 SW Prairie Trail Pkwy - Ankeny, IA 50023
Let's Talk
8120 Jennings Drive | Cedar Falls, IA 50614
Phone: 319-273-4692
Email: info@IA-CEO.org
Stacy.Mullinex@uni.edu 
| Deborah.Giarusso@uni.edu 
| Judy.Butler@uni.edu 