The Iowa Latino Conference was founded in 1998 to explore the changing demographics and dynamics of Latino communities in Iowa, and to strengthen the responsiveness of policy makers, business leaders and community-based organizations. It has become a cherished gathering of Latinos and non-Latinos as a place to emphasize the strengths of Latino culture and to provide networking opportunities for Latino leaders who live and work in Iowa.

Celebrating its 14th year, the two-day conference is coordinated by a statewide planning committee. A very important part of the mission of the conference is placing the creation of the conference in the hands of the community. In previous years, the conference has been held in Marshalltown, Des Moines, Muscatine and Iowa City.