The first Vocal Jazz competition was held in 2007 and was titled "The Best Of Iowa Jazz Choir Showcase".  In 2010 the name was changed to the Iowa Vocal Jazz Championships.

The event was to help promote the growth of vocal jazz in Iowa by providing a venue where jazz choirs of all classes could perform representing the best vocal jazz programs in their respective classes.  Over the years, schools considering the addition of vocal jazz grew and many districts added programs for students.

In 2017, 32 ensembles from school districts around the state of Iowa were represented at the Championships.  The event continues to grow and recognize the outstanding student musicians and directors in the state who devote their time and talents to vocal jazz.