LUNCH & LEARNS
Explore, Learn, Connect – One Lunch at a Time
ICOG is excited to offer a series of virtual Lunch & Learn sessions, spotlighting a wide range of topics that reflect the impactful services we provide and the success of our ongoing projects. These sessions are open to all Councils of Governments and anyone interested in learning more about our work across Iowa.
Below is a list of upcoming and past Lunch & Learn events. Stay tuned—more insightful sessions are on the way!
Featured Sessions
Topic: The Data Center Boom - Understanding Opportunites, Infrastructure, and Regional Impact
Presenter: Joe D'Antonio
Date: September 30, 2026
Presentation Highlights: As AI and internet use continue to grow, data center construction is booming — especially in rural areas. Join Joe D'Antonio of the National Association of Development Organizations for a Lunch and Learn covering how data centers operate, what infrastructure they require, and what regional development organizations should consider when evaluating a data center project.
PowerPoint Presentation PDF: Click HERE
Recording Link (advance forward by 16 minutes for start of session; Passcode: T!==3Cp$): Click HERE
Topic: Communicating Data Insights: Building Clear Data Narratives
Presenter: Kayla Lyftogt, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
Date: April 29, 2026
Presentation Highlights: Communicating data effectively is increasingly important in planning, policy, and community development work. This session introduces a practical approach to data storytelling, focusing on how to turn analysis into clear and meaningful insights for decision-makers.
Participants will learn how to define the purpose of their communication, identify the key audience, and clarify the main message they want that audience to understand. The session also introduces a simple narrative structure that helps organize data into a clear flow—from context and patterns to insight and implications.
The goal is to help participants communicate data in ways that improve understanding, strengthen decision-making, and make reports and presentations more effective.
PowerPoint Presentation PDF: provided upon request
Topic: Legislative Training
Presenter: Jon Murphy, Cope Murphy + Co.
Date: December 9, 2025
Presentation Highlights: Participants will gain insight into Iowa’s distinctive legislative process, including strategic points for advocacy and engagement. He will then cover major issues expected to dominate the 2026 session, along with ICOG’s specific legislative priorities, and review the timeline for these priorities to be addressed.
PowerPoint Presentation PDF: provided upon request
Topic: Grant Writing 101
Presenter: Julie Smith, Community & Economic Development Planner, Metropolitan Area Planning Agency
Date: October 29, 2025
Presentation Highlights:
- Understanding the Basics: Learn what grants are, who offers them, and how they can support your organization’s goals
- Key Components of a Grant Proposal: Discover how to craft compelling narratives, budgets, and supporting documents
- Tips for Success: Get expert advice on common pitfalls to avoid and strategies to strengthen your proposals.
- Q&A Opportunity: Bring your questions! We’ll wrap up with a live Q&A to address your specific challenges and interests.
Recording Link: provided upon request
PowerPoint Presentation PDF: Click HERE
Topic: Homes for Iowa
Presenter: Stephanie Nagrocki, Homes for Iowa Project Manager
Date: May 21, 2025
Presentation Highlights:
- The innovative history behind Homes for Iowa
- Key statistics on homes built and placed across the state
- How to purchase an affordable HFI home
- Promoting the hiring of skilled workers
Recording Link: Click HERE