In this episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast, host Kaylee welcomes Julie Pearce, co-chair of the 12th Global Insurance Symposium, to preview this year’s event happening April 14–15 at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. The program is designed by industry executives for industry professionals. Making the theme “Insurance in an Era of Possibilities,” revolve around the balancing cutting-edge innovation with real-world priorities across P&C, life and health, risk management, and reinsurance. Furthermore, expect deep dives into AI’s impact on talent and operations, global regulatory perspectives (including digital assets and payments), and a must-see CEO panel moderated by Terri Vaughan. The symposium has evolved into a focused, day-and-a-half format that maximizes high-value networking with more than 500 executives and regulators from Iowa and around the world.
During the episode, Julie also spotlights two signature features: the Future of Insurance Showcase on day one—where startups deliver three-minute pitches, meet decision-makers at dedicated tables, and compete for Best in Show—and the Global Insurance Accelerator cohort’s demo day on day two. Beyond founders, the event is a strong fit for young and mid-career insurance professionals, with programming shaped directly by carriers and brokers to address timely topics like bolt-on products and private credit. A Student Case Competition brings fresh thinking from universities nationwide, reinforcing the symposium’s role in talent and ecosystem development. Additionally, tickets, sponsorships, and showcase applications are available on the GIS website. Innovators and sponsors can also connect with co-chair Cory McAnelly of Principal Financial Group.
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Global Insurance Accelerator Event:
- Dates: April 14–15
- Location: Iowa Events Center, Des Moines
- Theme: “Insurance in an Era of Possibilities”
- Audience: 500+ executives, regulators, innovators, and global speakers
What’s new and notable:
- AI front and center: Sessions explore how AI will reshape talent, HR, and day-to-day collaboration between technology and insurance professionals.
- GIA Demo Day: Six startups from the Global Insurance Accelerator’s 100-day program deliver 6–7 minute pitches on Day 2, supported by a robust mentor network in Des Moines and beyond.
- Future of Insurance Showcase (Day 1): Rapid 3-minute pitches on stage, exhibitor tables, and structured networking with decision-makers. All Showcase participants are eligible for the Best in Show award—decided by attendees and peers.
- CEO panel finale: A crowd favorite returns, moderated by Terry Vawn, featuring a mix of global and Iowa-based leaders.
Why attend:
- Curated by the industry, for the industry: A 25-person planning committee of executives, brokers, law firms, and carriers shapes the agenda.
- Built-in networking: Dedicated breaks, soft seating, and meeting spaces make it easy to connect and demo solutions.
- Student Case Competition: Undergraduate teams from across the U.S. (and abroad) pitch fresh solutions—often sparking recruiting and collaboration opportunities.
Get involved:
- Register on the GIS website (two-day pass approx. $550; add-on team member for Showcase approx. $200)
- Apply for the Future of Insurance Showcase
- Explore sponsorships via the website or connect with co-chair Cory at Principal Financial Group