Hosted by America’s Cultivation Corridor
The “Grow in Iowa” webinar series will provide an inside look at Iowa’s leading ecosystem for agriculture and bioscience innovation, featuring case studies of successful startups and conversations with business, university and regulatory leaders to share resources and answer questions.
Each session will be moderated by Billi Hunt, executive director of America's Cultivation Corridor. Register for all three sessions and bring your questions for interactive conversations about how your business can thrive and Grow in Iowa.
Session One: Collaborating in Iowa’s Ecosystem
Wednesday, September 10
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CDT
Register here for Session One
Iowa is the epicenter of global agricultural production and research, and home to a vibrant network of resources to speed the development of the next generation of ag innovations. Session One will feature three experts with unique perspectives on the collaborations and partnerships that can only happen here.
Learn about the dynamic hub of entrepreneurship and innovation that has been created at the Iowa State University Research Park and the network of resources and grant support available to new and growing businesses and hear from an experienced entrepreneur about his experiences with two startups and building the Ag Startup Engine into a world-class community that bridges ag rounders, industry partners and investors.
Panelists include:
Session Two: Navigating the Regulatory Landscape
Wednesday, September 24
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CDT
Register here for Session Two
Navigating the U.S. regulatory landscape can present challenges for even the most experienced entrepreneur. Whether you are an international startup or a growing U.S.-based business, Session Two will provide valuable insights on the opportunities and pathways for bringing new products and technologies to market.
Hear from Iowa’s Department of Agriculture about how state-level agencies function across animal and plant sectors and coordinate across the government, including with Department of Natural Resources. An expert in regulatory, licensing, IP and corporate law will examine differences between state and federal systems and best practices, and a startup founder will share firsthand perspectives and real-world lessons in local, state and multi-state projects.
Panelists include:
Session Three: Startup Success Stories
Wednesday, October 8
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CDT
Register here for Session Three
Session Three spotlight innovative Iowa-based startups that have successfully scaled by leveraging local resources, university research, talent pipelines, and strategic partnerships to scale and succeed. Bring your questions and join the interactive conversation about pathways for startup growth, collaboration with Iowa State, and real-world examples of navigating challenges from idea to market.
The session’s panelists will bring a wealth of experience in animal, plant and digital agriculture and unique insights on tapping into the regional and university ecosystems, benefits of key industry and global leaders based in central Iowa, and how to serve large ag customers while adapting solutions to fit in smaller markets.
Panelists include:
- BJ Brugman, CEO and co-founder, Distynct
- Jason Cope, founder and chief intellectual property officer, PowerPollen
- Craig Rupp, CEO and founder, Sabanto