Local Innovators Shine at NIACC's Venture School Launch Day

On April 11, 2024, the NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center hosted the University of Iowa Venture School Launch Day competition. This event concluded a seven-week training program where participants developed business models and engaged in customer discovery. Previously held online, the competition allowed entrepreneurs to present their business ideas in person.

The panel of judges included Jordan Colby, a Venture Analyst at Ag Ventures Alliance; Lindsay James, Executive Director of Visit Mason City and Main Street Mason City; and Rod Schlader, the former CEO of MercyOne North Iowa. They assessed the presentations for innovation, practicality, and market potential, and selected the top three winners.

Caleb Renner of Renner Ag Solutions in Klemme, IA, won first place with his invention, the AgriNet, a safer alternative to traditional grain bin sweeps that reduces the risk of farmer injuries. He received a $1500 prize. Sherri Stensrude from Joice, IA, took second place and a $1000 prize with The PlayBarn, a venture offering a safe, educational play environment for children. Sarah Innis of Journey Wellness in Plymouth, IA, won third place and a $500 prize for her holistic health and wellness approach.

The University of Iowa Venture School, supported by a curriculum from the National Science Foundation I-Corps at Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley, promotes hands-on learning and direct market engagement. This method helps participants refine their business ideas based on actual market feedback, increasing their success potential.

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