Ames International Partner Cities Association
The mission of the Ames International Partner Cities Association (AIPCA) is to promote cultural and educational exchanges between the people of the City of Ames and those of its Partner Cities. Ames presently has two designated sister cities: Koshu City, Japan, and Podujeva, Kosovo.
AIPCA is a nonprofit organization that operates in partnership with the City of Ames and the Ames Community School District. Its bylaws state that four of the twelve members of the board of directors are appointed by the Mayor, four are appointed by the Ames Community School District Board, and four are selected by the AIPCA membership.
AIPCA in Action
AIPCA provides an opportunity to gain a greater knowledge of other cultures, customs, and ways of life. 
Members of AIPCA have the opportunity to join in visits to partner cities, hosting visiting delegates from partner cities, developing lasting friendships, and learning about other cultures, languages, and customs.
A newsletter providing information from the committees, cultural and educational information from all of our partner cities, as well as when and where AIPCA meetings are held is sent to members.
Recent Exchanges
Visiting Koshu City, Japan
AIPCA is organizing a trip for a youth delegation to visit Koshu City, Japan, this summer. The trip is scheduled for June 29 to July 6, 2026. Eligibility is limited to Ames residents in 7th or 8th grade.
Applications are due by February 6, 2026. Students attending Ames Middle School can submit applications to Mrs. Williams (H106) or Mrs. Brown (G111). Students who attend other schools should submit the application to AIPCA@cityofames.org. Download a copy of the application using the following link:
2026 Koshu City Trip Student Application(PDF, 5MB)
Hosting Visitors from Koshu City, Japan
The most recent visit was from a youth delegation in 2024. Click on the following link to learn more about the visit: 2024 Youth Delegation.
How to Get Involved
AIPCA can be a footstep to other worlds, new friends and a whole new way of thinking.
Ames residents who are interested in getting involved can apply for one of the Mayor-appointed spots on the board through the City's general boards and commissions application. Interested individuals can also join the organization directly as a member.
Membership Registration Form
Businesses or community groups interested in connecting with AIPCA can reach out to aipca@cityofames.org.
Newsletter
Check out the 2025 Newsletter:
Newsletters