Siouxland Series Luncheon
Date and Time
Thursday Aug 13, 2026
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM CDT
Location
Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center
300 3rd Street
Sioux City, IA 51101
Description

Tourism & Economic Development: Driving Community Growth
Thursday, August 13
12:00 PM to 1:30 PM
Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center
300 3rd Street
Sioux City, IA
Featured Guest Speakers

Join us for the third installment of our Siouxland Series Luncheon as we explore the important relationship between tourism and economic development and the role they play in shaping communities.
This panel discussion will feature leaders from Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota who will share insights on how tourism and economic development work together to support community growth, attract visitors, and encourage long-term investment. Panelists will discuss successful initiatives from their respective states, the impact tourism has on local economies, and how businesses can help promote tourism and strengthen the region.
Attendees will also learn how tourism and economic development directly affect local businesses—regardless of industry—and why investing in quality-of-life amenities, attractions, and community experiences benefits the entire region.
Panelists include:
Iowa
- Debi Durham, Director, Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) | Iowa Finance Authority
- Amy Zeigler, State Tourism Manager and Team Lead, Iowa Tourism Office at Iowa Economic Development Authority
Nebraska
- Stacey Parr, Deputy Director, Nebraska Department of Economic Development
- Jenn Gjerde, Executive Director, Visit Nebraska
South Dakota
- Joe Fiala, South Dakota Governor's Office of Economic Development
- Kirk Hulstein, Senior Director of Industry Relations, Development & Research, Travel South Dakota
Cost is $40/person (includes lunch). The registration deadline is Friday, July 31st.