Join Greater Iowa City, Inc. and the University of Iowa John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center for our next Entrepreneurial Lunch!
This panel will explore how business support organizations can help at different stages of your entrepreneurial journey, from launching an idea and overcoming early challenges to planning for long-term growth. You'll gain a better understanding of what's available, when to access different types of support, and how to build a network of resources that can help your business thrive.
This event is free, but registration is required.
Panelists:
Tom Altman: Fractional Executive at Altus CXO and Business Resource Center Expert
Tom Altman is a fractional CIO and technology strategist with more than 25 years of experience helping organizations align technology with business strategy and long-term growth. Through his work with Altus CXO, he provides executive-level technology leadership focused on strengthening operational foundations, improving workflows, and guiding digital transformation initiatives. Tom specializes in helping organizations become AI-ready by building strong systems, clean data structures, and scalable processes that support automation, analytics, and emerging technologies. He also works with entrepreneurs and small businesses to develop practical technology strategies that connect directly to business outcomes. As a volunteer expert with Greater Iowa City, Inc.'s Business Resource Center, Tom provides guidance to entrepreneurs and business owners on technology planning and operational efficiency, helping them leverage technology to support sustainable growth.
Megan Brandt: Innovation Program Manager at the Iowa Economic Development Authority
Frederick Newell: Founder and Executive Director at Dream City
Frederick Newell is the Founder and Executive Director of Dream City, a community-powered nonprofit dedicated to strengthening families, developing leaders, and creating pathways to economic opportunities. Founded in 2012 to address father absence, Dream City has grown under Frederick's leadership into a dynamic community hub serving youth, families, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders across the Corridor area. Through youth leadership development, family support, workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and community-building initiatives, Dream City equips people with the relationships, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. Frederick is known for his visionary, collaborative approach to leadership and his belief that lasting transformation happens when people are empowered - not rescued. His work remains grounded in a clear mission: building stronger families, developing capable leaders, and creating thriving communities for generations to come.