Events Calendar

Entrepreneurial Lunch: Growing Your Network, Growing Your Business

Thursday, February 12, 2026 (11:30 AM - 1:00 PM) (CST)

Description

Join Greater Iowa City, Inc. and the University of Iowa's John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center for our next Entrepreneurial Lunch! 


This Entrepreneurial Lunch will feature a panel discussion on networking, relationship-building, and the role connections play in career growth. Hear from community professionals with diverse experiences in fostering meaningful relationships across industries. You will leave with practical ways to build your network, improve your networking skills, an strategies to leverage your network.


Moderator:

DaLayne Williamson - CEO of Dalayne.com
DaLayne is the CEO of Dalayne.com, a professional consulting firm providing business strategy, human resources, talent acquisition, and career-growth services. As an HR and business strategy consultant, she helps organizations build strong teams, improve workplace culture, and navigate growth by partnering with leaders and entrepreneurs to create people-centered strategies that drive business success and support employee well-being. 


Panelists:

Nate Scheib - Director of Community + Employer Engagement at the University of Iowa Pomerantz Center
Nate serves as Director of Community & Employer Engagement at the University of Iowa, where he connects employers, students, and community partners. His work focuses on building meaningful relationships that support talent development, career pathways, and regional workforce growth.


Ashley Bermel - Realtor at Urban Acres Real Estate

Ashley is a seasoned real estate agent with over 20 years of experience helping buyers and sellers navigate the Iowa City, North Liberty, and Cedar Rapids markets with personalized care and expertise. She’s deeply committed to creating meaningful client experiences and strengthening community connections through service and genuine support.


Alex Taylor - Director of Entrepreneurship at NewBoCo

Alex is the Director of Entrepreneurship at NewBoCo, where he supports founders and small businesses through education, programming, and community-driven initiatives. He is passionate about fostering inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems and helping innovators turn ideas into sustainable ventures. Alex brings a collaborative, people-first approach to growing Iowa’s startup community. 


Brian Leibold - Director of Business Development at TrueNorth Companies

Brian is the Director of Business Development at TrueNorth Companies, where he focuses on strategic partnerships and growth within the insurance and risk management industry. He is also a current North Liberty City Council member, bringing a strong commitment to public service and community development. Based in North Liberty, Iowa, Brian combines private-sector leadership with civic engagement to support regional economic growth.


This event is free, but 
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. 



MERGE
136 S. Dubuque St.
Iowa City, IA United States
Event Contact
Lexie Rudolph
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Thursday, February 12, 2026 (11:30 AM - 1:00 PM) (CST)
Categories
Speed Networking
Networking
Registered Guests
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