Unconventional Business Network

DSM City Connect with Dave Hataj
2025-02-27 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Dave Hataj!About the Speaker: Dave Hataj | President of Edgerton Gear, Inc
Dave Hataj is the second-generation president and owner of Edgerton Gear, Inc., a Wisconsin-based custom gear manufacturer, where has worked for over 35 years.
He is a Journeyman machinist, has a BA from University of California, Irvine, a Masters of Christian Studies from Regent College in Vancouver BC, and a doctorate from Bakke Graduate University, developing a curriculum called Craftsman with Character. The course introduces high school students to the trades and manufacturing as an excellent career path, while developing
character and soft skills. The U.S. Navy has recently partnered with Dave to expand Craftsman with Character nationally.
He is the author of Good Work: How Blue Collar Business Can Change Lives, Communities, and the World.
Event Details:
Join us for a truly unique gathering at UBN's City Connect Luncheon, an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn't just about networking—it's about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices.
Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals.
What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in guided conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN's City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.
Download Flyer Here

DSM City Connect with Natalie Born
2025-06-12 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Natalie Born!About the Speaker: Natalie Born | Consultant, Author, Speaker, Podcaster
Natalie Born is a trusted advisor to C-level executives, keynote speaker, and the host of two podcasts: Innovation Meets Leadership, a top 25 innovation podcast listened to in over 80 countries, and Thrive Today, dedicated to empowering women in leadership. She is the author of the book Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation.

With over 20 years of experience in product development, strategy, and innovation, Natalie has collaborated on two approved U.S. patents and led initiatives across 18 countries. Her expertise lies in helping organizations drive growth, create award-winning strategies, and foster innovation. Natalie is married to Aaron, and together they are proud parents of two wonderful daughters.
Event Details:
Join us for a truly unique gathering at UBN’s City Connect Luncheon, an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn’t just about networking—it’s about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices.
Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals.
What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.

Networking
CommunityPractical examples to do work differentlyIf you are a sponsor trying to register your guests please refer to the link provided in the sponsor flyer

Register HereDownload Flyer HereSponsor Registration & Flyer Here

DSM City Connect with Travis Shelton
2025-09-16 11:00 - 13:00 | Holiday Inn Des Moines Airport, 6111 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Travis Shelton!About the Speaker: Travis Shelton | Business Consultant, Speaker, Writer, Podcast Host
Travis Shelton is an executive financial coach, business consultant, speaker, writer, business owner, and host of the Meaning Over Money podcast. He engages in conversations about money and work through a different lens. His mission is to help individuals and businesses discover a more fulfilling and purposeful path by aligning their behaviors with their faith and core values.
Aside from running his own businesses, Travis has worked with dozens of businesses to help each unlock a more purposeful, profitable, and simpler operation. He also writes a daily blog called The Daily Meaning, which aims to provide its readers with a daily burst of insight and encouragement to start their day. He and his wife are blessed with twin nine-year-old sons, finding joy in family life and their local community.
Event Details:
Join us for a truly unique gathering at UBN’s City Connect Luncheon, an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn’t just about networking, it’s about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices.
Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals.
What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.

Networking
CommunityPractical examples to do work differently

DSM: Networking Event
2025-10-09 08:00 - 09:30 | Northbridge Event Center, 4530 E 46th St, Des Moines, IA, 50317, United States
Grow Your Professional NetworkEvent Details:
Come ready to connect, learn, and grow with fellow Christian professionals who are passionate about living out their faith in the workplace. We look forward to seeing you!
RSVP Here!

DSM City Connect: Doug Hundt
2026-02-19 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Doug Hundt!About the Speaker: Doug Hundt | President of Industrial Solutions at Vermeer Corporation
Doug Hundt serves as President of Industrial Solutions at Vermeer Corporation, a global manufacturer of industrial and agricultural equipment that makes a real impact in a progressing world. At Vermeer, Doug leads the company’s global industrial businesses and guides strategy across key markets including environmental, mining, pipeline, and utility installation.
What does stewardship look like in the boardroom? Doug Hundt reveals how biblical principles—excellence, integrity, and the Golden Rule—translate into strategy and performance. Don’t miss this inspiring, actionable session at Des Moines City Connect on February 19, 2026.
Event Details:
UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn’t just about networking—it’s about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices.
Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals.
What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.

DSM Networking Event
2026-05-07 08:00 - 09:30 | New Hope, 4425 70th Street, Urbandale, IA, 50322, United States
Many Christian professionals carry a quiet question into their workday: How do I live my faith with integrity in my workplace, without compartmentalizing who I am?

This gathering is designed for those asking that question—and looking for others who are, too.

On May 7, join a group of professionals in Des Moines for a well-facilitated, intentional morning focused on connection, conversation, and shared purpose. Whether you’re early in your journey or have been integrating faith and work for years, you’re welcome here.

Our aim is simple and honest: to make it easier to meet other Christian professionals whose desire is to live and lead with faith shaping their work. This is a space to build relationships, exchange perspective, and experience community with others walking a similar path.

If you’ve been looking for a setting that feels grounded, sincere, and aligned with your values, we invite you to join us.

DSM City Connect: Jenni Catron
2026-06-11 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Jenni Catron! About the Speaker: Jenni Catron | Founder and CEO of The 4Sight Group
Jenni Catron is a leadership expert, author, and speaker based in Neenah, Wisconsin. As the Founder and CEO of The 4Sight Group, she specializes in developing healthy leaders and thriving organizations. With over 25 years of experience in both corporate and non-profit sectors, Jenni has held significant roles, including Executive Director at Cross Point Community Church and Executive Pastor at Menlo Park Presbyterian Church. She is the author of Clout: Discover and Unleash Your God-Given Influence and The 4 Dimensions of Extraordinary Leadership, and she frequently speaks at conferences nationwide. Jenni holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Middle Tennessee State University and enjoys hiking and reading in her free time.
Event Details: UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn’t just about networking—it’s about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices. Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals. What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.

DSM City Connect: Barry Rowan
2026-09-24 11:00 - 13:00 | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
Join us for this special luncheon event with Barry Rowan!About the Speaker: Barry Rowan | Executive, Mentor, Author
Barry Rowan is a seasoned executive and trusted advisor with decades of C‑suite leadership experience across technology and communications companies, including Gogo, Vonage, Nextel Partners, and Fluke Corporation. Over his career, he has helped build and transform eight businesses through hypergrowth and turnaround, including the sale of a company for $10 billion. A Harvard Business School graduate and author of The Spiritual Art of Business, Barry is widely respected for his character‑driven leadership and commitment to developing the next generation of leaders through board service, mentorship, and community engagement.
As we gather for our City Connect in Des Moines, Barry’s depth of executive experience and passion for integrating purpose, leadership, and community offer a meaningful voice for conversations about building thriving organizations and cities where people and leaders can flourish.
Event Details:
UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is an opportunity for faith-driven business leaders to come together over a meal, share insights, and inspire one another. This luncheon isn’t just about networking—it’s about connecting like-minded, faith-forward entrepreneurs and professionals who believe in integrating purpose with business practices.
Gather with a community that values both excellence in business and a commitment to values that guide and uplift. Each event combines the chance to share a meal with meaningful discussion and a faith-driven keynote whose talk is designed to build connections and offer practical insights that align with your faith-centered goals.
What to Expect:

Faith-Driven Networking: Engage in conversations with other business owners who share your commitment to purpose-driven work.
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from faith-centered business leaders and thought leaders who offer wisdom on navigating the intersection of faith and professional growth.
Takeaway Resources: Leave with ideas and tools to integrate faith principles into your business approach and strengthen your network of like-minded peers.

UBN’s City Connect Luncheon is ideal for business owners, executives, and leaders seeking to deepen their faith connections in the business community. Experience an environment that refreshes your spirit, sharpens your insights, and empowers you to grow your business with purpose.

DSM Networking Event
2026-10-15 08:00 - 09:00 | TBD
