McKinsey Expert to Speak on AI’s Economic Impact at 2026 Greater Des Moines Regional Summit

Des Moines, IA — May 26, 2026 — The Greater Des Moines Partnership has announced Dominic Williams, a senior expert at McKinsey & Company’s Institute for Economic Mobility, as the keynote speaker for the 2026 Greater Des Moines Regional Summit, scheduled for October 8, 2026 at the EMC Expo Center. Williams will deliver a forward-looking address on artificial intelligence (AI) and its transformative role in regional economic growth, drawing on McKinsey’s latest research on generative AI and its implications for workforce competitiveness.

The summit, an annual convening of public, private and nonprofit leaders, will explore how AI adoption can reshape economic development across Greater Des Moines—spanning urban, suburban, and rural communities. Beyond Williams’ keynote, the event will feature dedicated programming tracks on minor business innovation, inclusive talent development, and economic resilience. The Partnership will honor recipients of its annual Economic Impact Awards, recognizing organizations driving measurable progress in the region.

Why AI is the Focus of This Year’s Summit

AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a practical driver of economic opportunity for businesses and communities. According to McKinsey’s 2025 Global AI Adoption Index, regions that prioritize AI integration in workforce training and sector-specific applications see up to 1.2x faster productivity growth within five years. For Greater Des Moines, where industries like agriculture, healthcare, and logistics are critical, AI presents both challenges and untapped potential.

Williams’ presentation will likely address:

• Generative AI in local industries: How tools like large language models (LLMs) and automation can optimize supply chains, enhance customer service, and reduce operational costs.
• Workforce adaptation: Strategies for upskilling employees to work alongside AI, bridging the gap between technological advancement and labor market needs.
• Regional competitiveness: Case studies of cities that have leveraged AI to attract investment and foster innovation clusters.

For leaders in attendance, the discussion will serve as a roadmap for actionable AI adoption, moving beyond theory to tangible implementation.

Who Should Attend?

The summit is designed for:

• Business executives seeking to integrate AI into their operations.
• Economic developers focused on attracting AI-driven industries to the region.
• Nonprofit leaders working on workforce development and digital inclusion.
• Policy makers exploring AI’s role in public sector efficiency.

Registration details and the full agenda will be available on the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s event page.

Key Takeaways for Businesses and Communities

Based on McKinsey’s research and recent trends, here’s what attendees can expect to learn:

AI adoption is not optional—it’s a competitive necessity. Regions that delay investing in AI risk falling behind in attracting talent, securing funding, and maintaining relevance in global markets.

• Small businesses can start small: Low-code AI tools and partnerships with tech hubs (e.g., Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Innovation Accelerator) can democratize access to AI capabilities.
• Workforce development must evolve: Traditional education models are insufficient. Hybrid programs combining vocational training with AI literacy are critical.
• Data privacy and ethics will be front and center: As AI systems handle sensitive information, transparency and compliance will define trustworthy implementation.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Greater Des Moines?

The 2026 Regional Summit arrives at a pivotal moment. With AI reshaping industries globally, Greater Des Moines has an opportunity to position itself as a leader in AI-driven economic growth. Williams’ keynote will likely serve as a catalyst for:

• New public-private partnerships to fund AI research and pilot programs.
• Expanded education initiatives to prepare the workforce for AI-augmented roles.
• A regional AI strategy that aligns with national trends while addressing local priorities.

For businesses and communities, the message is clear: AI is not just a tool—it’s a lever for economic transformation. The question is no longer if Greater Des Moines will adopt AI, but how quickly and strategically it will do so.

FAQ: What to Expect at the Summit

Q: Who is Dominic Williams, and why is he speaking?

A: Dominic Williams is a senior expert at McKinsey & Company’s Institute for Economic Mobility, where he leads research on AI’s impact on labor markets and regional economies. His expertise in generative AI and economic mobility makes him a compelling voice for discussing how technology can drive inclusive growth. McKinsey’s Institute for Economic Mobility focuses on bridging gaps between technological advancement and workforce readiness—key themes for Greater Des Moines.

Q: Will there be opportunities to network with AI experts?

A: Yes. The summit will include dedicated networking sessions with AI practitioners, policymakers, and technology providers. Attendees are encouraged to engage in breakout discussions on AI adoption challenges and solutions.

Q: How can small businesses participate in AI initiatives?

A: The Partnership will highlight low-cost AI adoption programs, including grants, mentorship, and access to pilot tools. Specific resources will be announced during the summit, with some available immediately via the Partnership’s website.

Q: Is this summit only for large corporations?

A: No. While corporate leaders will be in attendance, the summit is designed to be inclusive, with tracks tailored to small businesses, nonprofits, and local governments. The focus is on collaborative solutions that benefit the entire region.

Final Thoughts: A Call to Action

The 2026 Greater Des Moines Regional Summit is more than an event—it’s a call to action. As AI continues to redefine industries, the region’s ability to adapt will determine its economic future. Williams’ keynote will provide the insights needed to turn AI from a buzzword into a strategic advantage.

For those unable to attend, the Partnership will share key takeaways and actionable resources post-event. The time to engage with AI is now—Greater Des Moines is ready to lead.