Mark your calendars and join us for CMC’s third annual Immigration & Business Luncheon! This inspiring event celebrates the invaluable contributions of refugees and immigrants to our local business community and workforce, as well as the organizations dedicated to supporting their success. Don’t miss it—March 6, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Cedar Rapids!
Event registration opens January 15, 2025. Stay tuned for more details!
Check-in: 8:45 am | Start Time: 9:00 am | End Time: 11:00 am
Prior to the luncheon, join us for a refugee simulation to learn what it means to be a welcoming neighbor and ally! This immersive experience is designed to help participants better understand some of the difficult choices that refugees may face on their resettlement journey.
This is a free event for all ages; donations are appreciated to help offset the cost of hosting the event.
Start Time: 11:30 am | End Time: 1:00 pm
The main event! Join us for this annual fundraiser featuring a keynote address, a program celebrating the contributions of refugees and immigrants, and the presentation of the 2025 Immigration & Business Awards. Together, we’ll honor individuals and organizations making a difference and reflect on the vital role refugees and immigrants play in strengthening our business community, workforce, and economy.
Do you know an individual or business that deserves recognition for their outstanding contributions to creating a welcoming workforce? Nominations are open now for the 2025 Immigration & Business Awards!
To submit a nomination, please complete the online award nomination form by the January 17, 2025 deadline. Nominees must be employed or have a place of business within a 100-mile radius of Cedar Rapids. Self-nominations are welcome!
Innovation in Business Award
Awarded to a business with innovative solutions in hiring and working with refugees and immigrants.
Emerging Employee Award
Awarded to a refugee or immigrant who demonstrates exemplary service and dedication in their role within an organization.
Outstanding Business Leader Award
Awarded to a refugee or immigrant who demonstrates leadership in the business arena.
Young Entrepreneur & Leader Award
Awarded to a refugee or immigrant under the age of 30 who demonstrates leadership in the business arena.
Emerging Community Leader Award
Awarded to a community leader in the ECBO, nonprofit, or community organization realm who demonstrates commitment to amplifying the voices of refugees and immigrants.
Youth Leader Award
Awarded to a youth under the age of 18 who demonstrates commitment to promoting a welcoming community.
See a list of past year’s awardees and event highlights below:
2024 Immigration & Business Luncheon
2023 Immigration & Business Luncheon
This event offers a variety of sponsorship opportunities to boost recognition of your organization while showcasing your support of the Catherine McAuley Center’s mission! If your organization is interested in sponsoring this event, please contact Haley Rosendahl, Resource Development Manager, at [email protected] or (319) 200-5070.
