The ISU Startup Factory is a startup incubator helping researchers and inventors develop a roadmap to realize the societal and economic impact of their high-tech innovations. Our goal is to help innovators and founders move from “tech-speak” to “business-speak.”

Who is the ISU Startup Factory recruiting?

Primary Criteria:

• Technology or innovation with commercial potential and a founder(s) willing to see it through
• Founders are currently based in Iowa

Ideal participants have:

• Already been awarded funding for their research  
• Completed a local ISU I-Corps program, or National NSF I-Corps program   
• A baseline understanding of customer discovery and have completed 20+ customer conversations.  
• A willingness to put in the effort to work outside of your comfort zone 
• A strong desire to be a part of an entrepreneurial community that seeks to change the world
• Special consideration offered to ISU faculty members, graduate students, or staff

Not sure if your innovative idea can be a business? Contact Peter Hong, ISU Startup Factory Director, at petehong@iastate.edu to brainstorm the possibilities!

Applications for Cohort XIII are open now! Apply below ⬇

Startup Factory Leadership:

Peter Hong, Director of ISU Startup Factory
Expertise: Biotech, Funding Strategies (including state and federal grants), Project Management

Hannah Kirkendall, Program Manager, ISU Startup Factory / Iowa G2M Accelerator
Expertise: Project Management, Program Planning and Execution

Donna Ramaeker-Zahn, Entrepreneur-in-Residence
Expertise: Global Ag & Biosafety, Food Policy, Strategy, Investing

Tim Neugent, Entrepreneur-in-Residence
Expertise: Investment, Strategic Planning, Marketing