The Immigrant Entrepreneurs Summit has announced its 18th annual National Summit, schedule for Nov. 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny. The event will convene hundreds of attendees representing 50 countries of origin to celebrate and empower the growing community of immigrant entrepreneurs, business owners and community advocates, a news release said. The summit features 21 breakout seminars across multiple business tracks, an exhibitor hall featuring business resources and services, a business pitch competition and an awards luncheon. The summit’s awards honor outstanding contributions and success stories within the immigrant entrepreneurial community. “The summit is a unique opportunity to highlight the incredible achievements of immigrant entrepreneurs to show that we recognize their contributions,” Catherine Tran, executive director of IES, said in a prepared statement. “For those just beginning their journey, we provide the tools, connections, and inspiration needed to thrive – and beyond that – to belong.”
The 2025 award honorees include:
- Rev. Eugene Kirahura, Shalom Community Impact Center – Immigrant Entrepreneur Leadership Award
- Kha Phan, Bright Technologies – Outstanding Immigrant Business Award
- Ambassador Kenneth M. Quinn – Karen L. Evans Immigrant Champion Award
- Manish Nathwani, Shazam – Immigrant Spirit Award