DES MOINES, Iowa — The fifth annual Iowa Family Business Conference will tee off with a lineup of family business stories that are as candid as they are inspiring. Dave and Ryan Austad, father-and-son leaders of Austad’s Golf, will provide a lunchtime keynote with a powerful conversation on succession, resilience and legacy. As stewards of a third-generation family enterprise, the Austads will share how they’ve weathered conflict and crisis, redefined leadership, and expanded their impact.

“Nothing rewarding comes without significant challenges,” said Ryan Austad, president, chief operating officer and third-generation owner of Austad’s Golf. “Family business is one of the most challenging things one can take part in. By extension, it can be the most rewarding. We approach our ups and downs with humor, humility, direct conversation and of course, a round of golf. We are excited to share those stories with you.”

Hosted by the University of Northern Iowa’s Family Business Center, the conference is the only statewide event dedicated exclusively to multigenerational family-owned businesses. Whether you're a founder seeking succession insight, a next-gen leader navigating transition, or a cousin consortium looking to strengthen alignment, the conference offers a full day of peer learning, strategic guidance, and celebration.

This year’s programming includes breakout sessions on governance, conflict resolution, leadership development and family dynamics — each designed to equip attendees with practical tools for business growth and legacy preservation.

“Family businesses are the backbone of our economy and our communities,” said Jayne Kielman, program manager at the UNI Family Business Center. “We’re excited to welcome the Austads and offer a space for families to share candid stories, make meaningful connections and leave with renewed momentum for the road ahead.”

The conference will take place at The River Center in Des Moines on Thursday, Nov. 6. Registration is now open, with early bird prices running through Aug. 31.

Learn more and register at unifamilybusinesscenter.com/2025-conference.