Here are the answers to some common questions about the Iowa Soccer Development Foundation, the Pro Iowa Initiative and the project’s impact on the community.
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What is the ISDF?
The Iowa Soccer Development Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to leading the Pro Iowa campaign — an initiative designed to build on central Iowa’s position as a thriving, vibrant community through the development of a multiuse stadium and plaza. Together, the Pro Iowa Stadium and Global Plaza will energize Iowa’s economy, unite people through shared experiences and provide opportunities for underserved, at-risk youth to experience the global game of soccer. The ISDF will own the Pro Iowa Stadium and Global Plaza when the project is completed.
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How is the ISDF related to Pro Iowa?
The ISDF operates independently as a nonprofit focused on the development of a multiuse soccer stadium and plaza, while the Pro Iowa Initiative serves as a broader campaign to bring professional soccer to Des Moines.
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How will this project benefit the community?
The Pro Iowa Stadium and Global Plaza will bring more than professional soccer to Iowa — it will deliver lasting community, economic, and environmental impact. As part of the larger Stadium District, this project will create thousands of jobs, attract new visitors, support local businesses and provide a dynamic space for recreation, culture and year-round events.
The stadium and plaza are central to the Downtown DSM: Future Forward Vision Plan and Action Plan, the most inclusive, community-driven plan in our city’s history, shaped by input from nearly 8,000 residents. As a key catalyst within the plan, the project supports both immediate economic momentum and long-term regional growth.
In total, the stadium, plaza and surrounding district represent more than $500 million in public-private capital investment and transforms a long-vacant Superfund site into a welcoming gateway to our beautiful city.
Specifically, a detailed feasibility study conducted by Johnson Consulting concluded that over the next 20 years, the Stadium District is projected to generate $8.8 billion in total economic activity. Additionally, the project will create 6,800 temporary jobs and more than 2,000 permanent jobs across the district.
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Why is a public/private partnership important to this project?
The stadium and plaza are funded through a public-private partnership involving the ISDF, the city of Des Moines, Polk County Board of Supervisors, the Iowa Economic Development Authority and private donors. This model allows the stadium to showcase our state and serve as a community-focused, multiuse facility for the region, hosting national sporting events, concerts, festivals and more.
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What are the stadium features and timeline for development?
Now that we have closed the remaining funding gap, the development timeline will begin in spring 2026 with site infrastructure and ground preparation. This includes environmental work, utility installation, and grading and capping to prepare the former Superfund site for vertical construction. This initial phase is critical to ensure the site is properly stabilized and ready for long-term use.
Construction of the stadium itself will begin after this foundational work is complete. The ISDF will continue to provide updates as key milestones are reached.
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What is the stadium going to look like?
The ISDF is thrilled to have Krause+ as the developer of the Pro Iowa Stadium and Global Plaza. With leadership and experience in soccer, sports, entertainment and development, Krause+ will work closely with the ISDF to ensure the design is brought to life and that it meets all qualifications outlined by the USL.
Updated stadium and plaza renderings will be shared with the public once finalized. The ISDF will also notify the public when construction begins and looks forward to providing progress updates throughout the process.
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How do I stay connected and learn more about the project?
Stay connected by following the ISDF on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. For future soccer-specific updates, news and invitations, visit USLProIowa.com and join the movement's e-newsletter.
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How can I support this project?
There are several ways you can support the ISDF’s mission to bring the Pro Iowa Stadium and Global Plaza to life. Whether through donations, corporate sponsorships or volunteering, your involvement will make a lasting impact on this transformative project.