This Week's Latest Tech News in Des Moines, IA - Sunday April 13th 2025 Edition

Des Moines is experiencing an unprecedented tech boom, with a significant 8.9% job growth adding over 2,500 tech positions in 2025.

The city's tech evolution is further amplified by Cielo Digital's proposed $3 billion data center project, featuring seven massive buildings spanning 333,000 square feet each.

The average tech salary sits at $88,750, with cybersecurity professionals earning up to $118,827 and cloud architects reaching $160,000. Major players like Principal, Dwolla, and Susan White are actively hiring, while the upcoming Iowa Technology Summit 2025 promises to showcase cutting-edge innovations in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

The city's tech landscape offers diverse opportunities, from software development to cloud computing, with companies like OpenLoop growing from 5 to over 300 employees.

Tech professionals are drawn to Des Moines for its cost of living (12% below national average), robust mentorship programs, and thriving startup ecosystem. The city's commitment to innovation is evident through initiatives like PowerPollen's $40 million raise and Charles Williams's $32.6 million investment in software development facilities.

This momentum, combined with a low 2.9% unemployment rate, positions Des Moines as an emerging tech powerhouse in the Midwest.

The launch of InnovateDSM Tech Incubator is transforming Des Moines into a legit tech hotspot, following the model of successful programs like top-tier accelerators across the USA.

Taking inspiration from Wells Fargo's Innovation Incubator, which just dropped $1 million in funding for seven game-changing projects, InnovateDSM is already crushing it with 25+ startups under its wing in just three months.

What's super cool is how they're hooking up entrepreneurs with everything they need - from decked-out coworking spaces to connecting them with industry mentors who know their stuff.

The incubator hosts monthly pitch events that have pulled in over $5M in VC funding, which is pretty epic for Des Moines. They've got this whole ecosystem going with high-speed internet, pro meeting rooms, and workshops covering the latest in tech - we're talking AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

The best part? It's not just about throwing money at startups - they're building this community where founders can learn from over 50 experienced mentors who've been there, done that.

Plus, being right in Des Moines gives these startups direct access to Midwest markets that are often overlooked by coastal tech hubs. Startup founder James Wilson keeps it real when he says InnovateDSM isn't just another incubator - it's basically rocket fuel for getting your startup off the ground, especially with all the connections and expert advice you wouldn't find anywhere else.

Between the state-of-the-art facilities and the serious mentor network, InnovateDSM is straight-up changing the game for tech entrepreneurship in Iowa.

AgriFi Solutions is making waves in Des Moines' tech scene with its $15 million Series B funding round. The company's evolution goes beyond traditional agritech, now incorporating blockchain technology for enhanced traceability and supply chain solutions.

What sets AgriFi apart is its comprehensive approach to agricultural innovation, including cold chain improvements and post-harvest loss reduction strategies, which have shown promising results in international markets.

The platform has expanded to offer customized financial services and tech-driven solutions for farmers, featuring digital documentation and rapid loan approvals within two working days.

• Enhancing AI-driven analytics: The $15 million investment is strategically allocated towards improving AI-driven analytics for crop monitoring and disease prediction.
• Research center creation: Establishing a new research center in Des Moines that will create over 50 local tech jobs.
• Partnerships for education: Developing partnerships with local universities to advance agritech education.

CEO David Johnson's team is implementing blockchain-based tracking systems and digital banking solutions that could increase regional agricultural productivity by 25% over the next five years.

The company's focus on combining financial technology with agricultural innovation positions Des Moines as an emerging hub for sustainable farming solutions. Their digital platform now enables farmers to access credit lines instantly and manage operations through a user-friendly interface, marking a significant shift in how agricultural businesses operate in the Midwest.

The Iowa Technology Summit 2025, held at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center in Des Moines, brought together over 500 tech professionals for a groundbreaking two-day event this April.

The summit kicked off with Dan Chuparkoff's keynote on "AI & The Future of Teams," which changed how attendees viewed workplace AI integration. Along with five major tracks covering cybersecurity, data, innovation, leadership, and transformation, the conference featured real-world applications that got everyone talking.

The Digital Government track showcased how AI is reshaping public services and fostering collaboration across different sectors.

A highlight was the "Summit Sandbox" - an interactive space where attendees could test drive emerging tech and network with industry leaders. The summit also featured innovation in action, with companies like A2Tech Solutions announcing their $50 million AI investment and plans for a new innovation lab that's expected to create 500 tech jobs.

What made this year's summit extra special was the focus on practical, hands-on learning - from interactive presentations on GenAI to deep dives into quantum computing.

The mix of local success stories and global tech trends really showed how Des Moines is stepping up its game in the tech world.

• Cybersecurity insights: Participants gained valuable knowledge on keeping their systems secure.
• Data analytics workshops: These workshops provided deep insights into effective data usage.
• Networking: Attendees had the chance to connect with other tech enthusiasts, enhancing their professional network.

Whether you were there for the cybersecurity insights, the data analytics workshops, or just to connect with other tech enthusiasts, the summit delivered major value and proved that Des Moines is becoming a legit tech hub in the Midwest.

Des Moines continues to advance its urban infrastructure through the $13 million transportation grant awarded for comprehensive traffic improvements.

The 2025 initiative includes the installation of smart traffic systems, with a significant focus on the Citywide Traffic Calming Improvements project along Pleasant Drive and other key corridors.

• Smart Traffic Systems: The program encompasses the deployment of speed-feedback signs, retroreflective traffic signal backplates, and 3.3 miles of corridor enhancements.
• Infrastructure Enhancements: A key component includes the installation of Portland Cement Concrete pavements, HMA speed humps, and enhanced traffic signage, scheduled for completion by August 2025.

This initiative aligns with Des Moines' broader $50 million digital enterprise program, which integrates smart city capabilities including AI-powered traffic management systems.

The project specifically targets safety improvements through raised crosswalks, which must be completed within twenty calendar days of road closure.

These enhancements are expected to reduce commute times, improve pedestrian safety, and optimize traffic flow throughout the city.

The initiative represents a significant step in Des Moines' evolution into a tech-forward metropolis, with particular emphasis on creating safer, more efficient urban transportation networks.

Construction will begin upon City Council approval, with specific provisions for minimizing disruption to daily traffic patterns while maintaining project momentum.

CyberCore Technologies, recently acquired by HP, is establishing a significant presence in Des Moines, bringing its expertise in secure supply chain and IT services to Iowa's growing tech scene.

Building on their success with their 83,000-square-foot headquarters in Elkridge, MD, CyberCore's Des Moines facility will specifically focus on cybersecurity solutions and mission engineering services.

The expansion aligns perfectly with Des Moines' projected 27% growth in cybersecurity jobs by 2024, where professionals can expect competitive salaries averaging $118,827 annually.

The company's timing couldn't be better, as Des Moines is experiencing an 11% increase in malware attacks, creating urgent demand for cybersecurity expertise.

Local tech professionals can look forward to engaging with industry leaders at the upcoming Des Moines CyberSecurity Conference in September 2025, where CyberCore will showcase its innovative security approaches and risk management strategies.

This expansion represents a significant boost to the local economy, with particular impact in the finance and healthcare sectors, which are projected to see cybersecurity job growth of 18% and 22% respectively.

The company's presence is expected to help address the current tech talent shortage, where only 83% of cybersecurity positions are currently filled in the region.

Des Moines is crushing it in the tech scene, with the sector now contributing $13.9 billion to Iowa's economy, showing a massive 28% growth since 2017.

The investment landscape is super diverse, with eighteen fintech startups alone raising over $217 million in funding. Companies like Dwolla are leading the charge, processing $13 billion in transactions, while Microsoft keeps expanding with nine campuses across the area.

A2Tech Solutions is dropping $50 million into AI development and creating 500 new tech jobs.

The startup scene is getting a major boost from initiatives like LaunchDSM's business incubator, which is helping new companies get off the ground with a killer five-module program.

Local success stories are popping up everywhere - OpenLoop grew from just 5 employees to over 300 in a few years.

The city's also going all-in on innovation with a $50 million digital enterprise program that's bringing smart city tech to everything from waste management to traffic systems.

What makes this growth sustainable is Des Moines' focus on education and talent development.

DMACC's new NSA-accredited cybersecurity program is addressing the skills gap head-on, with grads starting at $54,000 annually.

The tech community is particularly hyped about blockchain adoption, with 45% of local businesses getting involved, especially in finance and healthcare sectors.

All this investment and growth is making Des Moines a serious contender in the national tech scene, and the momentum shows no signs of slowing down.

Des Moines is transforming into a dynamic tech education hub in 2025, with innovative partnerships between educational institutions and industry leaders driving unprecedented growth.

The University of Iowa, ranked 98th among national universities, has established robust engineering and computer science programs, with graduates commanding impressive starting salaries of $89,577.

Meanwhile, Iowa State University's nearly 100 research centers are fostering groundbreaking developments in computer engineering and digital health. The city's educational landscape is further enriched by tech sector contributions exceeding $13.9 billion to Iowa's economy, marking a 28% growth since 2017.

Drake University's Zimpleman College of Business has integrated cutting-edge digital marketing and business analytics programs, while DMACC's cybersecurity program boasts over 319 IT degree completions in 2023.

Simpson College's impressive 94% career placement rate demonstrates the effectiveness of business training partnerships between educational institutions and local employers.

These collaborations are strengthening Des Moines' position as a tech education powerhouse, with institutions like Grand View University offering specialized programs in Python coding, cloud computing, and SQL, directly addressing industry needs while maintaining competitive tuition rates starting at $193 per credit hour for residents.

Des Moines is rapidly establishing itself as a pioneer in the sustainable tech arena. Edged's new ultra-efficient data center highlights this commitment, featuring 13.2 MW of eco-friendly capacity and innovative waterless cooling technology for AI workloads.

The surging tech sector, now contributing $13.9 billion to Iowa's economy, is increasingly focused on green initiatives. The Iowa Technology Summit 2025 is showcasing this transformation through dedicated tracks on innovation and sustainability, bringing together industry leaders to share solutions.

Local companies like Ecolyte Innovations are leading the charge with their SmartGrid Optimizer, achieving a 30% increase in energy efficiency for participating households.

The city's commitment extends to public infrastructure, with a $50 million digital enterprise program implementing smart city capabilities including AI-driven waste management and energy-efficient traffic systems.

Community solar programs have resulted in a 15% reduction in utility costs over the past two years, while new construction projects must meet strict sustainability standards.

This strategic evolution positions Des Moines as a model for sustainable urban development, with measurable improvements in air quality indices and growing investment in green technology solutions.

The city's environmental initiatives have attracted significant venture capital, with local tech startups raising over $217 million in recent funding rounds, much of it directed toward sustainable innovation projects.

“Des Moines is setting a standard for how cities can integrate technology and sustainability,” said Robert Brown, a local tech entrepreneur.

Des Moines is powering up its cybersecurity game in 2025, and it's way more than just firewalls and patches. The city is hosting the Iowa Technology Summit 2025, where cybersecurity leaders are tackling everything from AI-driven threats to building cyber-resilient organizations.

Local companies are bringing serious innovation to the table - DataGuard Solutions is crushing it with their new encryption tech, while SecureWave Technologies is leveling up intrusion detection systems for government and enterprise networks.

The Des Moines Cybersecurity Conference in September is set to be huge, bringing together CISOs and security pros to share the latest defensive strategies and tackle emerging threats head-on.

The city's tech scene got even more interesting with CyberCon Summit joining the mix, focusing on risk management and innovation in the digital space.

What's really cool is how Des Moines companies are shaping national cybersecurity standards - they've contributed six key recommendations to the NIST guidelines, especially around cloud security and IoT devices.

The local cybersecurity sector is projected to grow 25% by 2026, creating tons of opportunities for tech professionals. With DataGuard's adaptive encryption, SecureWave's real-time threat detection, and NetSafe's zero-trust architecture leading the charge, Des Moines is definitely making its mark on the national cybersecurity map.

Des Moines is transforming into a tech talent powerhouse through innovative youth-focused initiatives. Pi515's tech mentorship program leads the charge, providing free technology training and professional development to high school students from diverse backgrounds.

The program's hands-on approach, meeting twice weekly for six months, connects aspiring tech professionals with industry leaders, creating valuable networking opportunities and real-world experience.

Meanwhile, DMACC's Youth Tech Camp offers specialized courses in video game design, robotics, and AI programming, preparing younger students for future tech careers.

The camps' popularity reflects growing interest in STEM education, with enrollment increasing 52% since 2024. Oak Studio Teen Tech Center, powered by Wellpoint and Best Buy, provides cutting-edge technology access and mentorship to teens across Polk County.

Located in the Mainframe Studio Building, it offers programs in art production, mobile app development, and photography, serving as Iowa's first Best Buy Teen Tech Center.

Through these initiatives, Des Moines is building a robust pipeline of tech talent, with over 500 students participating in structured tech education programs annually.

The city's commitment to youth tech education is further demonstrated by multiple coding bootcamps, hackathons, and STEM workshops scheduled throughout 2025, creating accessible pathways for students to enter the growing tech sector.

Des Moines has transformed into a powerhouse tech hub in 2025, with the tech sector contributing $13.9 billion to Iowa's economy, marking a stunning 28% increase since 2017.

The city's growth is exemplified by major developments like Cielo Digital's proposed 500-megawatt data center project, a $3 billion investment that will create seven massive buildings on the south side.

The upcoming Iowa Technology Summit 2025 on April 7-8 will showcase the region's innovation across cybersecurity, data, and transformation tracks, bringing together industry leaders and entrepreneurs.

Companies like Q2 are revolutionizing mobile banking, with 1 in 10 digital banking customers now using their platform, while John Deere's autonomous tractors are achieving 9% higher crop yields while slashing fertilizer costs by 60%.

The landscape is further enriched by Dwolla's fintech innovations and PwC's investments in AI, projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030.

With 18 fintech startups raising over $217 million and companies like Trility Consulting maintaining a 98% employee satisfaction rate, Des Moines is cementing its position as a prime destination for tech talent.

The city's commitment to innovation is evident in its $50 million digital enterprise program, which includes smart city initiatives and extensive public Wi-Fi networks.

As local educational institutions report high career placement rates and the blockchain adoption rate reaches 45% across industries, Des Moines stands ready to shape the future of technology in the Midwest and beyond.