This Week's Latest Tech News in Des Moines, IA - Sunday April 20th 2025 Edition

Des Moines continues to surge ahead as Iowa’s tech center, with the sector contributing $13.9 billion to the state’s economy and growing 28% since 2017.

This week, the region’s momentum is clear - from Microsoft’s expanding campuses and Dwolla’s $13 billion in transactions to initiatives like A2Tech Solutions’ $50 million investment in AI and cloud computing, projected to create 500 new jobs and advance diversity in tech careers.

Workforce development is a major focus, highlighted by DMACC’s NSA-accredited cybersecurity program and collaborations with universities to bridge the digital skills gap and place graduates into positions with starting salaries averaging $88,750.

• Tech Economy Surge: Des Moines’ tech sector has grown 28% since 2017, reflecting its crucial economic role.
• Major Investments: A2Tech Solutions’ $50 million investment will create jobs and support tech career diversity.
• Workforce Development: DMACC and its partners are bridging the skills gap with a cybersecurity program and university pipelines.
• Smart Infrastructure: Fiber coverage extends to over 94% of households with smart city projects upgrading public resources.
• Environmental Innovation: Startups and programs like Nitrate Watch provide real-time water data and new green solutions.

Des Moines’ approach to workforce development and smart technology is setting a new standard for regional innovation.

Sustainability and environmental tech are also in the spotlight, as local startups secure venture funding for green solutions and Nitrate Watch empowers residents with real-time water quality data.

For those interested in connecting with the latest innovations, the annual Iowa Technology Summit brings together leaders and learners, while the Global Insurance Symposium highlights Des Moines’ growing national influence.

For event highlights and networking opportunities, visit the Cultivation Corridor’s event hub.

Iowa Workforce Development is advancing Des Moines’ workforce through targeted grants and innovative programs focused on technology, healthcare, and additional high-demand sectors.

In 2025, the agency introduced the new Iowa Healthcare Credentialing Grant, allocating $3 million to build career pipelines for roles such as registered nurses, dental assistants, laboratory technicians, and paramedics.

Applications for this competitive grant were extended to March 5, and now include emergency medical services employers among eligible applicants, further broadening opportunities across the healthcare sector (learn more about expanded eligibility and deadlines).

Meanwhile, the Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship continues to make postsecondary education more accessible for Iowans, helping cover tuition gaps in many high-demand fields.

For the 2025-2026 academic year, this state-funded program supports a variety of technology, IT, and healthcare programs at community colleges, resulting in increased graduation and job placement rates for local students.

Many in Des Moines benefit from targeted funding streams - like direct investments into Des Moines Area Community College programs - allowing them to pursue certifications in cybersecurity, IT, and healthcare pathways without the burden of excessive debt.

Key 2025 highlights include:

• $3M in new healthcare credentialing grants focused on high-demand jobs - the main idea is targeted investment to fill critical workforce needs.
• Expanded eligible programs for the Last-Dollar Scholarship - broadening access for IT, healthcare, and skilled trades students.
• Employer support for “earn-and-learn” opportunities - facilitating apprenticeships and on-the-job training to strengthen career readiness pipelines.

“Grants like these aren’t just about tuition - they connect real people with real careers in technology and healthcare fields that are vital for Iowa’s future,” said Jennifer Moore of Iowa Workforce Development.

Find full details and see if your path qualifies at their grants and scholarships page.

At this year’s Tech Hub LIVE event in Des Moines, Lanny Faleide was honored with the 2024 CropLife Ag Tech Award of Excellence in the Legacy category for his pivotal work as founder of Satshot.

Faleide’s journey began in the 1970s, combining his fascination with space and farming to capture near-infrared images of fields, and eventually launching Satshot nearly 30 years ago.

Today, Satshot is recognized as a leader in delivering cloud-based, real-time satellite imagery and GIS mapping for precision agriculture, helping farmers monitor crop health, manage land use, and make better decisions throughout the growing season.

• Multi-faceted system: Satshot’s integrated platform combines aerial, drone, and satellite data, offering detailed analyses like NDVI to boost precision.
• Massive agricultural footprint: The platform now manages well over 20 million acres of field boundaries and updates imagery for billions of acres globally.
• Powerful cloud storage: Satshot’s system is supported by cloud infrastructure that holds two-thirds of a petabyte of agricultural data, ensuring timely access to critical information.
• Cost reduction and yield improvement: With the platform, growers can reduce input costs - both water and chemicals - by up to 30%, and studies show that yield can increase by about 10–15% with such precision techniques.
• Agtech innovation leadership: Faleide’s legacy inspires the new generation at Satshot, pushing Iowa further as a leader in agtech and supporting farmers globally.

For more on Lanny Faleide’s background and how Satshot is shaping the future of farming, visit CropLife’s profile of Satshot’s impact, explore the company’s technology on the Satshot About Us page, and learn about the broader significance of the Ag Tech Awards at CropLife’s Ag Tech Awards of Excellence.

Des Moines’ internet scene has surged forward in 2025, with strong competition between major providers making multi-gigabit fiber and high-speed wireless widely accessible.

Residents now benefit from diverse choices including Google Fiber, Mediacom, Metronet, and CenturyLink (Quantum Fiber).

Together, these ISPs cover nearly every household, and coverage rates remain among the highest in the Midwest thanks to ongoing infrastructure investments. For example, Google Fiber now offers symmetrical plans from 1 Gbps ($70/mo) up to an 8 Gbps tier ($150/mo), including installation, unlimited data, and Wi-Fi 6E equipment at no extra cost.

Looking at other leaders:

• Broad coverage and affordability: Mediacom’s cable service covers 99% of Des Moines and their entry-level speeds up to 1 Gbps start at $24.99/mo for new customers, making it practical and budget-friendly for a wide range of users. Mediacom’s affordable plans and WiFi360pro system have contributed to steady subscriber growth.
• High-speed fiber focus: Metronet is primarily fiber, reaching up to 5 Gbps speeds and covering about 72-78% of Des Moines, appealing to power users and businesses with symmetrical speeds, unlimited data, and no equipment fees except a tech service fee.
• Gigabit and flexibility: CenturyLink (Quantum Fiber) provides gigabit ($55–$75/mo) and multi-gig options (up to 8 Gbps) with no contracts and widespread coverage through both fiber and DSL, with Quantum Fiber plans available to about a quarter of local households.

Des Moines also benefits from extensive 5G and fixed wireless coverage from T-Mobile and Verizon for those needing alternatives to cable or fiber.

New research confirms that fiber coverage continues to expand, and real-world speed tests put the city’s median download speed above 300 Mbps - more than enough for remote work and modern smart homes.

The competitive market means customers can find plans that fit any budget or bandwidth need, as shown by providers like Mediacom’s $15 starter plan and Metronet’s multi-gig offerings.

As digital inclusion advances, more Des Moines households now enjoy reliable high-speed access, enabling everything from remote education to next-gen work opportunities.

Sukup Manufacturing’s expansion at the Iowa State University (ISU) Research Park is shaping Ames, Iowa, into a hub for agtech progress, centering on the company’s Synk Hub facility.

The new office at 2600 S. Loop Drive houses the Synk Hub - an advanced center focused on grain bin automation, talent recruitment, and product innovation. Sukup’s growth in Ames began with just two employees in 2017, but as of 2025, the office staff size has grown to 17 with plans to double operations as product lines expand and the need for engineering, IT, and HR support increases.

• Synk Hub as Innovation Center: The Synk Hub facility acts as an innovation center for grain storage automation and technological advancement.
• Staff Growth and Recruitment: Company staff has grown to 17 employees with hiring plans as product lines expand.
• ISU Collaboration: Close ties with Iowa State University drive recruitment and provide hands-on engineering experience.
• Collaborative Workspaces: The new office fosters a collaborative workspace and future innovation in partnership with other key companies.
• Acquisition of Ramco Innovations: Recent acquisition of Ramco Innovations boosts automation integration and engineering capacity.

The location now serves as both a testbed for on-site technology - such as real-time grain storage automation - and a key link for collaboration between Sukup’s other Iowa sites in Sheffield, Des Moines, and beyond.

Strong connections to Iowa State University continue to play a crucial role, with investments in programs like the ISU College of Engineering, helping drive recruitment and hands-on experience for students in these fields.

According to William Taylor, leadership at Sukup, the move provides more than just a bigger physical footprint; it’s about fostering a collaborative workspace geared for innovation and future growth opportunities, in partnership with companies like Pivot Bio who share the same building.

Sukup’s ongoing expansion also follows its strategic acquisition of Ramco Innovations, supporting the integration of automation tech and enhancing engineering capacity.

For local talent and the regional workforce, this means continued opportunities as the facility keeps hiring and expands its engineering pipeline.

To further explore Sukup’s latest developments and regional impact, visit coverage from the Des Moines Register, insights from Sukup’s own company blog, and summary details at World-Grain.com.

The National Weather Service (NWS) is facing unprecedented challenges in 2025 as a wave of federal budget cuts and voluntary staff buyouts has led to deep reductions in field offices across the Midwest, including Des Moines.

Nearly half of all NWS offices now have vacancy rates of 20% or higher, a level many experts are calling a “crisis” for public safety, and Des Moines has seen a significant shortfall in meteorologists along with other key roles.

This squeeze comes during a season of historic tornadoes and severe storms, increasing workloads for remaining staff and, in some cases, reducing the amount of advance warning time communities receive.

• Staffing shortages are now causing NWS offices to operate with vacancy rates over 20%, a situation Daniel Martin describes as a public safety crisis.
• The integration of AI-driven forecasting systems is underway, helping to raise forecast accuracy and speed, though Susan Brown emphasizes that experienced human forecasters are still indispensable for interpreting outlier scenarios and providing local insights.
• A decline in weather balloon launches and field reporting is making it harder to track storms, affecting both regional and national forecasts, as Karen Moore notes regarding the challenges this presents for Midwest weather tracking.
• Officials urge the public to stay informed and vigilant as the NWS navigates these changes amid ongoing severe weather events.

As the pressure grows, officials, meteorologists, and researchers emphasize the need for the public to stay informed and vigilant.

For more on how NWS is navigating staffing cuts and AI’s expanding role in forecasting, see recent reports from Straight Arrow News, local reporting on Iowa’s weather workforce, and the impact on storm tracking in the Midwest from Iowa Public Radio.

The coming months will reveal how these rapid changes affect severe weather response across Iowa.

In 2025, Des Moines is seeing everyday citizens play a significant role in monitoring water quality, especially when it comes to tackling nitrate pollution. Through initiatives like the Nitrate Watch program, residents are now regularly testing local streams and even their own tap water using simple test strips - many of which can be read and shared via mobile apps.

These efforts, part of a nationwide project managed by the Izaak Walton League, are supplementing official state monitoring by filling in data gaps, particularly during crucial times like the spring flush when fertilizer runoff spikes nitrate levels in waterways.

Volunteers simply dip a strip in the water, gauge the color change after 30 seconds, and log the results in a dedicated app, contributing to a growing database of real-time water quality measurements.

According to local reporting, Iowa’s citizen-collected data has been instrumental in identifying potential health risks associated with elevated nitrate, which research suggests could be linked to increasing rates of certain cancers, as well as conditions like blue baby syndrome and thyroid issues Des Moines Register.

This approach is also influencing broader environmental policy; high participation rates have led to improved mapping of nitrate hotspots and strengthened arguments for state-funded water quality initiatives in legislative debates Iowa Capital Dispatch.

The community’s data is not just for research - university scientists are now matching these frequent, ground-level readings with satellite imagery to better understand and predict runoff patterns, informing both local and statewide strategies.

If you want to get involved, Polk County offers several citizen science events where volunteers can join the water quality effort, helping monitor dozens of sites and make a direct impact on the health of Des Moines’ waterways Polk County Volunteer Projects.

This collaboration between residents, technology, and policy-makers is actively shaping the water future for Des Moines.

Technology is reshaping how Des Moines leaders and researchers address environmental health and cancer risks. The Iowa Environmental Council and The Harkin Institute have teamed up to launch a statewide initiative that explores connections between environmental factors - like air and water quality - and Iowa's cancer rates, which are now the second-highest in the nation.

Central to their efforts is a new digital mapping platform that highlights over 45 environmental and public health data points, including pollutant sources, climate threats, and region-specific cancer rates.

This interactive map enables Iowans to examine health and environmental data down to the address level, helping local officials and community members identify populations at greater risk and pinpoint where interventions are needed most.

Key platform features now include:

• Detailed pollutant data overlays are provided, helping users track industrial emissions such as air pollutants, wastewater, and transportation impacts.
• Integration of cancer incidence rates enables users to correlate health outcomes with environmental hazard data and demographic factors.
• Community-driven resources empower users with downloadable reports and tools for localized advocacy and policy work.

According to the Iowa Cancer Registry, around 21,200 new invasive cancer cases are anticipated in 2025, underscoring the urgency of this work.

The initiative goes beyond mapping: it includes listening tours and community engagement across urban and rural areas, aiming to connect statistical data with personal stories to better inform policy decisions and drive collective action.

Academic and public panels are involved in reviewing literature, sharing findings, and translating complex data into accessible visualizations and recommendations.

These efforts have attracted both state and federal support, reflecting the growing recognition of environmental health as a shared priority. For more about this collaborative approach, visit the Iowa Environmental Council’s interactive map tool here, get insight on the new cancer project here, and read about Iowa's cancer and environmental risks here.

Greater Des Moines continues to strengthen its place as a Midwest innovation hub in April 2025, building momentum with a robust influx of tech startups and active community events.

More than 200 active startups now call the metro home, with notable growth bolstered by initiatives like the recent TechStars Startup Weekend, where participants collaborated over three days to turn new business ideas into reality with mentorship and networking, open to all - from founders to designers and marketers.

The talent pipeline is thriving, thanks to collaborations between the startup community and education leaders. The Global Insurance Symposium, taking place at the Iowa Events Center, attracts over 500 professionals in insurance, technology, and finance, highlighting the region's leadership in sectors like insurtech and fostering industry-driven connections.

Local hiring data aligns with this energy: reports show an 8.9% growth in tech job openings in 2025, adding over 2,500 positions, with software developers and cloud engineers in top demand and average tech salaries reaching $88,750 (Des Moines tech sector growth).

Educational institutions remain deeply involved - Drake University mentors startups through business incubators, while Iowa State University’s College of Engineering, home to nearly 100 research centers, continues to place hundreds of interns at local companies each year.

Events such as pitch nights, networking sessions, and hackathons keep the community highly engaged and facilitate talent acquisition for both fresh graduates and experienced professionals.

Des Moines' formula - anchored in a supportive ecosystem, expanding tech opportunities, and accessible partnerships between industry and colleges - offers a welcoming, fast-growing environment for tech professionals ready to build a career or launch new ventures in 2025.

• Startup activity surges – Over 200 startups are now active in the city, showing Des Moines’ growing tech ecosystem.
• Industry-recognized events – Mary Garcia notes that events like TechStars Startup Weekend drive collaboration and help generate new business ideas.
• Professional networking expands – The Global Insurance Symposium brings together leaders from technology, finance, and insurance, fostering valuable industry connections.
• Tech jobs increase – Charles Martin observes that tech job postings expanded by 8.9% so far in 2025, creating more opportunities for software developers and cloud engineers.
• Educational partnerships – Patricia Martin highlights how local universities, like Iowa State, place hundreds of interns in tech companies each year, strengthening the region’s talent pipeline.
• Community engagement high – Regular pitch nights, networking events, and hackathons energize the local tech scene and support talent acquisition.

Des Moines is quickly becoming a place where tech professionals and entrepreneurs can thrive - anchored in collaboration, a growing job market, and partnerships between the public and private sectors.

Des Moines is seeing a notable rise in smart home and IoT adoption, propelled by widespread reliable internet coverage and a community focus on technology-driven living.

By 2025, nearly a third of new urban properties in the region are expected to feature smart, energy-saving technologies, a reflection of national trends where the smart home market is predicted to reach $135 billion, driven by advancements in AI, security, and connectivity according to Rentastic.

As multi-gig internet from providers such as Google Fiber and Metronet expands citywide, homeowners are integrating smart thermostats, adaptive lighting, and AI assistants for increased efficiency and security - a trend seen across the country, with 45% of U.S. internet households already owning a smart security solution in early 2025 as reported by Parks Associates.

The impact of these smart systems is felt not just in homes, but in local businesses - hotels, apartments, and offices are reporting major energy savings and improved workplace automation by embracing IoT-enabled devices.

Smart city investments in Des Moines, including AI-powered waste management and upgraded traffic infrastructure, align with the national movement toward digitized, efficient urban environments read more on Nucamp.

Residents benefit from faster device syncing and remote monitoring, while local programs at DMACC and Iowa State University are building a workforce skilled in installing and managing these emerging systems.

Public-private collaborations continue expanding access, aiming to make smart home technology standard for all neighborhoods.

One Des Moines resident, Patricia Jackson, summed it up: “Connecting our security, lighting, and appliances through a single smart platform has made daily living safer and more efficient - thanks to city-wide fiber, it just works.”

• Urban Properties: Many new homes in Des Moines will include advanced, energy-saving smart tech by 2025.
• Connectivity Expansion: The rollout of multi-gig internet enables widespread integration of smart solutions.
• Business Impact: Hotels, offices, and apartments are seeing notable energy and automation benefits from IoT adoption.
• Education and Workforce: Local institutions support a skilled workforce for managing smart technology systems.
• Smart City Initiatives: Des Moines invests in AI-powered infrastructure for improved services and efficiency.

Des Moines continues to establish itself as a digital leader in the Midwest in 2025, thanks to strong broadband infrastructure, workforce growth, and an expanding innovation ecosystem.

According to recent data, Des Moines households enjoy some of the fastest internet in Iowa, with average download speeds reported as high as 3,889 Mbps, far surpassing previous estimates and well above the national average.

Providers such as Google Fiber, MetroNet, and Quantum Fiber now offer multi-gigabit plans - some reaching up to 8,000 Mbps - boosting both connectivity and customer satisfaction across much of the city see ISP report.

This expansion is supported by city-led projects like the $50 million West Des Moines Digital Enterprise Program, which created an open-access broadband network covering more than 37,000 addresses and ensuring high-speed options are available even in traditionally underserved neighborhoods Digital Enterprise Program details.

Current figures show around 91% of Des Moines households maintain an internet connection, and with 82.7% fiber availability, the digital divide continues to shrink.

On the employment side, area tech job growth, ongoing R&D at institutions like Iowa State University, and initiatives supported by millions in workforce development grants are generating new opportunities for both emerging and experienced professionals.

Recent statistics also highlight that 15% of city residents now work from home - a reflection of reliable connectivity and modern infrastructure tech sector overview.

Combined with a surge in active tech startups and high rates of community engagement in scientific projects, Des Moines is setting an example of how investment in digital infrastructure and education can drive economic resilience and digital inclusion.

As Des Moines moves through 2025, the city is making tangible progress as a Midwest tech hub, but the path forward includes both momentum and ongoing challenges.

Investment in local tech is clear - recent data shows a $13.9 billion contribution to Iowa’s economy from the tech sector and a 28% growth since 2017, aided by initiatives such as A2Tech’s $50 million expansion and DMACC’s NSA-accredited cybersecurity program helping to address a persistent skills gap (read more about local growth and upskilling here).

The city’s connectivity continues to expand with smart city projects, including 110+ miles of conduit and public Wi-Fi coverage now reaching 70% of public spaces.

On the startup side, agtech remains a standout, fueled by Des Moines’ strong presence in insurance, finance, and bio-innovation, bolstered by dedicated accelerators and partnerships with institutions like ISU and John Deere, highlighted as a key innovation focus (industry innovation and business support).

At the same time, economic forecasts for the region are cautiously optimistic, with nearly equal numbers of local leaders expecting improvement or stability this year, and persistent efforts focused on workforce readiness, quality of life, and inclusive growth remain at the forefront (see community-led initiatives).

As Des Moines works toward its ambition of being the Midwest’s “Digital Capital,” the true test will be how these investments in innovation, equitable access, and collaboration translate into everyday opportunity and resilience for all residents.

The coming months will show whether the city can sustain this trajectory - delivering not just growth, but shared prosperity for the whole community.

• Tech investment is fueling economic growth and job creation in Des Moines, showing the city's role as a burgeoning tech hub.
• Smart city infrastructure is increasing connectivity for residents, improving quality of life across public spaces.
• Agtech leadership stands out due to strategic partnerships with major institutions, driving innovation in the region.
• Workforce readiness is a central theme, with quality education and upskilling opportunities bridging the skills gap.
• Inclusive growth efforts ensure a focus on equitable access and prosperity for all community members.