Statewide "Business-for-Good" Journalism Contest Opens Door for Iowa Students

We cover Decorah because we love it. Show your love back — donate today. WINNESHIEK COUNTY — College students in Northeast Iowa have a new opportunity to tell meaningful local business stories through a new statewide journalism contest focused on "business-for-good." The Iowa Newspaper Foundation (INF), in partnership with the Drake School of Journalism & Mass Communication and the Zimpleman College of Business at Drake University, has launched the inaugural Iowa Business-for-Good Journalism Contest, inviting Iowa college students to explore how businesses create economic value while also serving communities. Students from Luther College, Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC), and other area institutions are encouraged to participate. The contest is designed as a cross-disciplinary collaboration, requiring each team to include one journalism or communications student and one business-related student, such as economics, accounting, or analytics. Team members may come from different Iowa colleges or universities. Stories may focus on a single local business or examine broader systems and trends, but all entries must demonstrate both a real economic component and a meaningful social impact, such as effects on workers, customers, communities, or the environment. DecorahNews.com publisher Lon Haenel said the contest presents a strong opportunity for area students to spotlight stories that often go untold. "I'd like to encourage our local students at Luther College, NICC, and beyond to dig into this opportunity," Haenel said. "Business is important to our area, with stories that aren't being told. We look forward to supporting local submissions by publishing them on DecorahNews.com." Local students or instructors with questions are encouraged to reach out to Lon directly at Lon@DecorahNews.com for support. Prizes and Recognition First place: $1,000 to the student team and $1,000 to their school Second place: $500 to the team and $500 to the school Third place: $250 to the team and $250 to the school Finalists and honorable mentions will also receive certificates, and winning entries may be considered for publication in the Des Moines Business Record. Deadlines and Requirements Submission deadline: May 1, 2026 Winners announced: By June 1, 2026 Entries must be original, unpublished work created between Sept. 1, 2025, and April 15, 2026, and run between 1,500 and 2,000 words. Submissions must include a full multimedia package, original data visualization, photography, and supporting documentation detailing reporting methods and team contributions. The contest was established through a gift honoring MaryAnne Vieregger and reflects a growing emphasis on journalism that examines both profits and purpose. Students seeking teammates can use the contest's "Connect with Students" tool available through the Iowa Newspaper Association website. For full contest details, submission instructions, and contact information, visit the Iowa Newspaper Foundation website or contact Jana Shepherd at 515-244-2145 or jshepherd@inanews.com. Get the inside scoop! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and receive local news, expert analysis, and stories that matter most—straight to your inbox.