As we do each year, we asked our readers to cast votes for what Des Moines has to offer in a variety of business-related categories. These businesses make up an ecosystem in our region that supports a strong and vibrant community.

Here’s how it worked: You voted. We checked the data, removed any suspicious or erroneous votes and then tallied the results for all 66 categories. All Greater Des Moines businesses, people and organizations are eligible to win categories. In other words, there was no cost to be listed as an option due to the survey being open-ended. You can’t pay to win a category.

Best Thing to Happen to Central Iowa in the Past Year winner NCAA Tournament
runner-up ICON Water Trails

Best Thing that Will Happen to Central Iowa in the Upcoming Year winner ICON Water Trails
runner-up Topgolf
runner-up Pro Iowa Soccer

To read the full article, visit the Business Record.