Beyond Business: Principal® provides office space to Pi515
DES MOINES, Iowa– Principal Financial Group® welcomes Pi515 to its global headquarters through a lease providing the Des Moines tech-focused nonprofit in-kind office space. Beginning today, Pi515 will operate on the first floor of 710 9th Street on the Principal® campus.
“Principal is committed to cultivating a vibrant, thriving campus and downtown,” said Jo Christine Miles, director, Principal® Foundation and Principal Community Relations. “Providing space to Pi515 as an in- kind donation is a proactive, innovative approach to investing both in the fabric of downtown Des Moines and the future of the broader community.”
Repurposing office space demonstrates the commitment of Principal to expand access and adds youthful energy to the Principal campus and downtown core. Pi515 will have a rent-free space allowing them to focus financial resources on their mission and provides a well-equipped space to help prepare students for a variety of career opportunities in the emerging digital workforce.
"As Pi515 celebrates our 10th anniversary, it's humbling to transition into our new home. Here, we'll create even more opportunities for young people in Des Moines to thrive, equipping them with the skills needed for the future of work," said Nancy Mwirotsi, founder and executive director of Pi515. "A heartfelt thank you to Principal Financial Group - the kids and I are incredibly excited for this new chapter."
Pi515’s relationship with Principal began in 2021 with the creation of the Tech Mentorship Program. Through this collaboration, Principal hosts youth twice a week, for an entire school year in the Principal Community Learning Center on its downtown campus to learn from Principal employees who volunteer their time to teach the technology and professional skills necessary to succeed in a digital workforce. Each student also earns three college credits. Through this initiative, Principal plays a key role in empowering refugee and underserved youth in the Des Moines Metro while developing a talent pipeline for tomorrow’s STEM leaders.