The third annual JEFAS® Business Excellence Summit will take place Friday, September 4, 2026, at Drake University’s Olmsted Center in Des Moines.

Presented by JEFAS® Latinas in Business Magazine in partnership with the Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship Outreach at Drake University’s Zimpleman College of Business, the summit brings together entrepreneurs, business owners, professionals and community leaders from Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois and beyond.

This year’s program will include educational workshops, leadership development, networking, an exhibitor marketplace and stories from women building businesses throughout the Midwest. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from other professionals, make new connections and hear practical perspectives from people with experience building and growing businesses.

Award-winning author and speaker Leia Baez will deliver the keynote, “There’s Power in Your Story: How Authenticity Can Fuel Business Growth.” Through personal storytelling and interactive reflection, Baez will explore how entrepreneurs can use their lived experiences to strengthen relationships, build trust and create new business opportunities. Her session will connect authenticity with practical areas of business, including visibility, customer trust and professional relationships.

The summit is open to entrepreneurs, professionals, students, nonprofit and community leaders, aspiring business owners, resource providers and others who support the growth of Latina-owned businesses. Whether you are growing an existing business, exploring entrepreneurship or looking to expand your professional network, the summit offers a full day of learning, connection and business-focused conversation.

General admission is $100.

Click here to register