The Iowa Business Council is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization whose 23 members are the chief decision makers of the state's largest employers. Since its establishment in 1985, the Council has worked to elevate Iowa's economy through global thought leadership, research, and advocacy. This unparalleled group of CEOs works together to identify opportunities to strengthen the state's workforce and overall economy, inform stakeholders by sharing data and insight, and network and engage to initiate change in the pursuit of prosperity for Iowa and Iowans. Ultimately, the Iowa Business Council's mission is to serve as a catalyst for economic vitality. During 2017 Iowa Business Council members: - Employed over 200,000 Iowans, with 1 in 6 jobs in Iowa tied to an IBC member- Paid over $8.5 billion in payroll to employees - Invested in Iowa's economy with $1.8 billion spent in capital investment- Spent over $1 billion on research & development- Made more than $87 million in charitable contributionsIBC members compile a global, nonpartisan perspective of the economy which ultimately drives its initiatives. The council's research provides insight on Iowa's business climate and how the state is competing nationally. This information serves as a great resource for policymakers, business leaders, and every day Iowans. Currently, the council releases two major pieces of research - the Economic Outlook Survey and Iowa's Competitive Dashboard. IBC member companies include: Ruan Transportation Management Systems; Vermeer Corporation; Iowa Bankers Association; Alliant Energy; Casey's General Stores; Collins Aerospace; Corteva Agriscience; Deere & Company; Fareway; FBL Financial Group; HNI Corporation; Hy-Vee; Kent Corporation; Mercy Health Network; Meredith Corporation; MidAmerican Energy Company; Pella Corporation; Principal; The Weitz Company; University of Iowa Health Care; UnityPoint Health; Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Iowa; & Wells Enterprises.