1 Million Cups Cedar Rapids is a weekly gathering where entrepreneurs, business leaders, and the community come together to learn, connect, and share ideas over coffee. Each free Wednesday morning event features a founder story, expert insight, or candid conversation, followed by a thoughtful Q&A that sparks collaboration and honest feedback. Open to everyone and always welcoming, 1MC is where we explore challenges, learn lessons, and move ideas forward together. Learn more about 1 Million Cups.
This Week’s Featured Presenter: Rob Sand
Join us for a unique 1MC conversation featuring Iowa State Auditor and Gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand. This focused discussion will connect local innovators with state leadership, followed by a look at new community initiatives from Monica Vernon and the Czech Village New Bohemia SSMID.
Full Event Details
This session is designed to give Cedar Rapids entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners direct access to critical conversations shaping Iowa’s economic landscape.
Featured Speaker: Rob Sand, Iowa State Auditor & Gubernatorial Candidate
A focused, interactive 30-minute discussion addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing Iowa’s entrepreneurial community.
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Submit your question for Rob. (One question per person, focused strictly on small business/economic topics).
Main Street Updates: Monica Vernon, Executive Director, Czech Village New Bohemia Main Street District
Working to “set the table” for these historic, vibrant, and unique neighborhoods, Monica will share an update on the SSMID’s efforts, including new floral and seasonal displays, seasonal lighting, public art, and infrastructure improvements like new benches and waste cans.
Event Schedule:
- 8:00-8:30 AM: Morning Networking & Coffee
- 8:30- 9:00 AM: Small Business Roundtable with Rob Sand
- 9:00-10:00 AM: 1MC Program Introduction & District Updates with Monica Vernon
Event Logistics
- Location: African American Museum of Iowa, 55 12th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
- Parking: Ample free parking available at the museum lot and on the street
- Admission: FREE (Please Note: Registration is required)
- Capacity: Limited to 100 attendees