Ignite CR 2025: A Summer in Review
August 13, 2025 | Economic Development & Workforce
Young professional retention programs are a vital part of the Economic Alliance’s mission, addressing one of the region’s biggest workforce challenges: brain drain. Defined as the loss of educated talent to other communities, brain drain contributes to loss of human capital and expertise. With that in mind, Ignite CR was introduced in 2019 to give college students and interns a reason to picture their future here. By connecting them with local leaders, introducing them to their peers, and showcasing the opportunities available in Greater Cedar Rapids, the program helps them recognize the abundant possibilities in our region.
This summer’s group brought together an impressive mix of talent. Ignite CR’s Class of 2025 included 195 interns representing 31 companies, with two thirds of the group coming from outside Greater Cedar Rapids including communities across Iowa, Illinois, Florida, Michigan, and Texas. Each person brought a unique background and perspective, adding to the program’s energy and diversity. Across six events, interns got the chance to explore, learn, and connect. On average, 62 people attended each gathering, forming groups large enough to be lively but small enough to allow for real conversation.
The program kicked off June 12 with a lively evening at Big Grove Brewery. Interns were welcomed by James Klein, CEO of Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust and Chair of the Downtown District, before jumping into trivia, speed networking, and casual conversations. It set the tone for the rest of the summer—energetic, social, and full of opportunities to meet new people.
On June 17, the first Lunch & Learn session advised the group on how to make the most of their internships by developing the skills most in demand by today’s employers. From workplace communication to emotional intelligence, the discussion gave attendees tools they could use immediately and in their future. The next major outing took place in Uptown Marion, a booming suburb just north of Cedar Rapids. Mayor Nick AbouAssaly greeted the group before they launched into a scavenger hunt through local businesses and landmarks.
The program shifted gears with a Regional Mixer at Pinseekers Tiffin, bringing together interns from the Cedar Rapids and Greater Iowa City areas. The event highlighted the value of authentic connections through an interactive, improv-inspired session led by Alex Schulte while also offering food, drinks, and an opportunity to perfect their golf swings.
A week later, on July 17, the second Lunch & Learn took place. This time, the focus was on financial planning. The session, Your Life, By Your Design – Using Money as a Tool for Freedom, broke down the basics of budgeting and long-term planning in a way that felt relevant to those just beginning their careers. Attendees left with strategies for balancing financial responsibility with enjoying life in the present.
Summit & Sip was the summer finale, taking place on July 24. It began at Lion Bridge Brewing Company and ending with a scenic hike up Mount Trashmore. From the top, interns took in a view of the entire city- its established businesses, close-knit communities, and its ever-present heartbeat. RAYGUN provided the interns with Mount Trashmore tees, leaving them with a souvenir of their summer experience.
Intern feedback showed just how much the program resonated. One participant from out of state shared that the events helped them bond with their coworkers and feel more connected to the community. Another said, ‘College kids like myself appreciate the time and energy you put into this program. It is designed to help us succeed, and it has taught me so much this summer.’ Others emphasized the value of networking and skill-building alongside the social activities.
So, what did we take away from this year’s program? Our Workforce Program Manager, Laura Seyfer, sums it up best:
“While a job is the most pivotal aspect for anyone when deciding where to live, just as influential is the feeling of belonging and a sense of community. That is precisely what Ignite CR creates for these interns. They can unite with their peers, build connections, and have a little fun along the way. We want them to leave this summer thinking, ‘Wow, summer in Cedar Rapids was the best!’ And, I believe we were able to accomplish that.”
A special thank you to the companies that sponsored Ignite CR in 2025, including Downtown Cedar Rapids, Walmart, and WRH, Inc. Your support allowed a class of promising, ambitious young professionals to see a future for themselves in Greater Cedar Rapids.
If you or one of your interns would like to be involved in 2026’s Ignite CR program, please contact Laura Seyfer at lseyfer@cedarrapids.org.