CEDAR FALLS, Iowa — Vernon Research Group (VRG) announced the acquisition of assets of the Horizon Group, respected Des Moines-based research and consulting firm, marking a significant step in VRG’s continued growth and expansion across Iowa.
The transition will begin July 1, with Horizon Group’s clients and research panel members invited to join Vernon Research Group and the Iowa Opinion Panel.
“This is the perfect next step for Horizon Group’s clients and research panel,” said Jackie Norris, president and owner of Horizon Group. “In working with VRG, we know this will be a smooth transition, and we’re excited about this new chapter. Their commitment to quality research and client service aligns closely with the work we’ve built over the years.”
Founded in 1984 as State Public Policy Group (SPPG), Horizon Group has built a reputation for connecting research, strategy and action to help organizations create meaningful change. In 2017, it acquired Essman/Research and has assisted hundreds of clients in using data to inform their decision-making process. Horizon Group will formally close in Fall 2026.
Vernon Research Group is a full-service market research firm specializing in custom survey design, data analysis and qualitative and quantitative research. Based in Iowa, VRG helps organizations gain deep, data-driven insights that support confident decision-making and strategic growth.
“The growth of VRG is exciting to see,” said Bryan Earnest, owner of Amperage, LLC. “This acquisition represents an outstanding opportunity to expand our presence in Central Iowa while building on the strong relationships and reputation Horizon Group has established. Jackie and her team share values and approaches that make this a natural fit and we look forward to ensuring a seamless transition for clients and panel members alike.”
VRG owns and manages the Iowa Opinion Panel, a statewide research panel that provides clients access to a broad, diverse and actively engaged pool of respondents. Through this transition, Horizon Group’s panel members will be invited to join the Iowa Opinion Panel, strengthening its reach and representation across Iowa.
“This is an exciting opportunity for us to expand our panel’s reach across the state, said Robin Frost, managing director of Vernon Research Group. “By welcoming Horizon Group’s panel members, we’ll bring in new voices and perspectives from communities throughout Iowa, helping us deliver even richer insights and more representative research for our clients.”
Vernon Research Group is owned by Amperage, LLC, which also owns and runs Amperage Marketing + Fundraising.
To learn more about VRG, visit VernonResearch.com.
Vernon Research Group is a market research firm that delivers custom survey design, data analysis and qualitative and quantitative research. VRG’s team of experts help empower businesses, nonprofits, government agencies and political organizations with custom market research solutions. Since 1987, VRG’s mission has been to help clients gain deep, data-driven insights that lead to confident, strategic decisions. Find out more at VernonResearch.com.