How Local Media and Networking Shape Iowa’s Business Future
When people picture Iowa, they often see an endless patchwork of cornfields, soybeans, and rolling farmland. Agriculture is indeed part of the state’s lifeblood — Iowa leads the nation in corn production and ranks second in soybeans — but that’s only part of the story. Beneath the rural landscape lies a vibrant business ecosystem, fueled by entrepreneurs, innovative companies, and leaders dedicated to making Iowa a great place to work and live.
One organization that’s been capturing, shaping, and amplifying that story for over four decades is Business Publications Corporation (BPC), the media company behind the Business Record, DSM Magazine, and Innovation Iowa. At the center of its operation is Jason Swanson, BPC’s Vice President, who joined The Germinate Podcast with host Joe Sampson to share his perspective on Iowa’s evolving business scene and the company’s role in it.
From Selling Ads to Shaping Stories
Swanson and Sampson go way back — to the early 2000s, when they both sold advertising for CityView, BPC’s arts and entertainment weekly. That experience, complete with tight deadlines and plenty of in-person sales calls, honed their sales and relationship-building skills.
Today, Swanson’s role has expanded well beyond ad sales. He oversees circulation, audience development, subscription sales, IT, and even contributes editorial pieces. His vantage point gives him a clear view of how BPC connects the dots between people, ideas, and industries across Iowa.
Iowa’s Identity: Agriculture and Beyond
While agriculture remains a cornerstone of Iowa’s economy, Swanson sees a broader picture. The state boasts a thriving insurance sector, an energetic startup culture, and an increasingly connected business environment, thanks in part to remote work opportunities. Iowa’s lower cost of living and educated workforce make it attractive to both employers and employees.
And yet, as Swanson points out, “Everything in Iowa is tied to agriculture in some way.” Whether it’s manufacturing equipment, developing ag-tech solutions, or supporting the food supply chain, agriculture remains a thread that runs through many industries here.
The BPC Approach: Find the Need, Fill the Need
BPC’s success lies in its focus. Rather than trying to be everything to everyone, the company produces highly targeted content for Iowa’s business community. The Business Record covers issues specifically through a business lens — avoiding partisan politics and instead asking, What does this mean for Iowa’s companies and leaders?
This approach has earned BPC a loyal readership, with many CEOs, executives, and entrepreneurs setting aside time each week to read its publications.
The Power of Networking
One of BPC’s most valuable offerings isn’t a publication — it’s connection. With over 40 annual events, including panels, awards, and networking gatherings, BPC creates opportunities for decision-makers to meet face-to-face.
Deals, partnerships, and ideas often start in these rooms. As Sampson notes, “The number of deals I’ve done on a napkin in a lobby bar over a cocktail… it’s gold.”
A Tribute to Connie Wimer
No discussion of BPC would be complete without mentioning founder Connie Wimer. Now 92, Wimer still comes to work daily. A trailblazer in business, she’s known for calculated risk-taking, vision, and empowering leadership.
Her fingerprints are all over Des Moines — from launching Wine Fest and Restaurant Week to championing women in business. As Swanson recalls, Wimer’s approach is deliberate: remove emotion from decision-making, think things through, and act with purpose.
Looking Ahead: Local Media’s Resurgence
Despite the challenges facing journalism, Swanson sees a renewed interest in high-quality, locally produced news. In an era of polarized national media, BPC’s community-focused approach offers something rare: trust.
The company is exploring new ways to distribute its content — including expanding its reach beyond Des Moines — while maintaining its niche focus. Swanson also believes AI will have a role in media, but human storytelling and local insight will remain irreplaceable.
Key Takeaways for Businesses Everywhere
While this conversation centers on Iowa, its lessons apply anywhere:
Know your niche and serve it relentlessly.
Prioritize networking — relationships often drive growth.
Stay adaptable — technology and audience habits will keep changing.
Build trust by staying true to your mission and audience.
If you want to learn more about BPC, explore:
Business Record
Innovation Iowa
And if you’re in Iowa’s business community, don’t just read about the news — be part of it.
