Erin Huiatt, an influential businesswoman from Des Moines, has been honored with the 2024 U.S. Small Business Administration Women in Business Champion of the Year title thanks to her remarkable impact on Iowa’s entrepreneurship community since she took over a parenting website in 2015.
Under Huiatt’s leadership, the website was transformed into a comprehensive resource for parents, significantly promoting the growth of small businesses in Iowa.
She currently presides over Des Moines Parent, a website that serves as a central guide for families in Iowa, with content that includes event listings, activity ideas, and resources. Additionally, Huiatt leads a networking group for female entrepreneurs, providing opportunities for business development and success.
Her innovative approach to commerce, coupled with her mission to empower women business owners across Iowa, has made her a true champion for entrepreneurship.
The business world in Iowa has responded warmly to Huiatt’s recognition by the SBA.
Erin Huiatt: Impacting Iowa’s business landscape
Jayne Armstrong, the Iowa District Director, regards Huiatt as a strong professional woman who positively impacts the local business landscape.
As the owner of Des Moines Parent, Huiatt has tremendously boosted its digital footprint, navigating the challenges of maintaining ad sales and financial stability by actively seeking out new strategies and considering various grants.
However, Huiatt’s vision extends beyond just numerical success. She aims to cultivate a community where families and businesses can thrive together.
On top of her business commitments, Huiatt is also involved in community activities. She created the Des Moines Beyond Business Conference in 2022 to inspire female professionals, and she also assists women as a certified postpartum doula.
As an author and a prominent board member for various nonprofit organizations, her influence in the community continues to grow.
Future projects in Huiatt’s pipeline include publishing a print directory of indoor family destinations in Iowa by 2025 and launching an online platform in 2026 to connect female entrepreneurs with potential investors and mentors.
Moreover, even with all her professional achievements and future plans, Huiatt remains a dedicated mom, committed to raising her daughters to become self-confident and compassionate adults.
Indeed, Erin Huiatt’s journey so far serves as a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and an unwavering belief in empowering women, and her recognition as a Champion of Women in Business is richly deserved.
