List Of Major Startups Events In Iowa

Iowa's startup scene is growing fast, with many events happening throughout the year. These gatherings provide valuable opportunities for entrepreneurs to network, learn, and showcase their businesses in a supportive environment. Iowa startup community is thriving with numerous events and activities designed specifically for early stage businesses looking to grow and connect with resources.

From Des Moines to Iowa City, the state offers a variety of startup and small business events that cater to different industries and stages of business development. These include pitch competitions, networking sessions, educational workshops, and multi-day conferences that bring together investors, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs. The Iowa entrepreneurial resources available through these events help new businesses gain visibility and access the support needed to succeed in today's competitive market.

1) Startup Weekend Iowa City

Startup Weekend Iowa City is a three-day event where entrepreneurs, developers, designers, and business professionals come together to build startups from scratch. Participants pitch ideas, form teams, and develop business models under the guidance of experienced mentors.

The event is organized by EntrePartners (formerly The James Gang) and is part of the global Techstars Startup Weekend program. It provides a hands-on environment for networking and rapid prototype development.

The next Startup Weekend Iowa City 2025 is scheduled for Friday, July 11, 2025, at 136 S Dubuque St in Iowa City. This immersive experience lets participants meet potential co-founders, mentors, and investors.

The weekend format includes idea pitching on Friday, business development on Saturday, and final presentations on Sunday. Teams receive feedback from judges who evaluate the viability of each concept.

Techstars Startup Weekend Iowa City helps participants connect with other creators and learn how to transform ideas into businesses quickly. The collaborative atmosphere makes it ideal for testing concepts with minimal risk.

Attendees agree to standard terms regarding photo/video capture during the event, which may be used for promotional purposes.

2) Iowa Angel Investor Summit

The Iowa Angel Investor Summit is a one-day event specifically designed for active and aspiring angel investors. It aims to help accelerate entrepreneurship in Iowa by connecting investors with promising startups.

The summit is scheduled for Tuesday, November 19, 2024. It brings together people interested in startup investing to share knowledge, network, and discover new investment opportunities.

For businesses seeking capital, this event offers a valuable platform to connect with potential investors. Startups can showcase their ideas and business models to a targeted audience of people ready to invest in promising ventures.

The summit includes educational components as well. Those new to angel investing can learn about what makes investors tick and how to appeal to them. This knowledge is crucial for startup funding in the Midwest.

Attendees can expect presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. These activities help foster connections between the investor community and Iowa's growing startup ecosystem.

3) 1 Million Cups Des Moines

1 Million Cups Des Moines is a weekly gathering that takes place every Wednesday morning. It offers local startup events in Iowa where entrepreneurs can present their ideas and businesses to an engaged audience.

The format is simple and effective. Entrepreneurs give short presentations about their companies, followed by a Q&A session with the audience. This creates a chance for feedback, connections, and community support.

Free coffee fuels these morning meetings, staying true to the program's name and mission. The energy at these events is known to be innovative and inspiring.

Des Moines 1MC meets at various locations, including Elevator, a Co-Warehousing Community in Downtown Des Moines. This flexibility helps expose attendees to different spaces in the startup ecosystem.

The program serves as a key platform for entrepreneurs to showcase Iowa innovation. Both early-stage and established business owners benefit from the exposure and networking opportunities.

For startups looking to tell their story or test an idea, 1 Million Cups provides a supportive community of fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and business professionals.

4) Technology Association of Iowa Annual Conference

The Technology Association of Iowa (TAI) hosts an annual conference that brings together tech leaders and startups from across the state. This event typically features keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities focused on innovation and growth.

Attendees can expect to meet potential investors, partners, and clients while gaining insights into emerging trends. The conference showcases Iowa's technology industry evolution and provides a platform for businesses to increase their visibility.

For startups, this conference offers valuable opportunities to learn from established companies and industry experts. Presentation topics often include funding strategies, talent acquisition, and market expansion techniques.

The event is part of TAI's broader mission to support the state's tech ecosystem. As one of the must-attend Iowa technology events, it helps businesses connect with resources needed for growth.

Registration typically opens several months before the event date. Startups should consider both attending and exploring sponsorship options for maximum exposure to the Iowa tech community.

5) Gravitate Startup Events Des Moines

Gravitate Coworking serves as a hub for Des Moines' startup community, hosting regular events that connect entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers. The space provides a collaborative environment where startups can grow their network and gain valuable insights.

These events range from casual networking meetups to structured workshops focused on business development. Many entrepreneurs find value in attending Gravitate's community events and announcements as they offer opportunities to meet potential partners or investors.

Gravitate is known for promoting local startup events in Des Moines through their platform, making it easier for new businesses to stay informed about the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Their calendar typically includes pitch competitions, founder meetups, and industry-specific gatherings.

For startups looking to establish themselves in Iowa, Gravitate events provide access to mentors and resources that can accelerate growth. The organization has helped nurture numerous successful startups since its inception.

Events are typically held at their downtown Des Moines location, creating a centralized meeting point for the city's innovation community. Most events are open to non-members, allowing anyone interested in the startup scene to participate.

6) Startup Iowa Hot List Launch Event

The Startup Iowa Hot List Launch Event is a key gathering for Iowa entrepreneurs seeking connections and support. This event introduces the Startup Iowa Hot List newsletter to the community, highlighting promising startups across the state.

The launch brings together investors, entrepreneurs, mentors, and corporate leaders in one room. Attendees can network with the featured startups and learn about new business opportunities in Iowa's growing ecosystem.

The event serves as a platform for the 17 newest additions to the Hot List to gain visibility. These entrepreneurs get a chance to pitch their ideas and connect with potential supporters.

For business owners, this event offers direct access to the strong networks of support in the Midwest and beyond. The connections made here often lead to mentorship opportunities, investment conversations, and strategic partnerships.

The Hot List Launch Event happens annually and marks the beginning of a year-long focus on selected startups. After the launch, these companies receive ongoing promotion through the newsletter and related channels.

7) Global Insurance Accelerator Demo Day

The Global Insurance Accelerator Demo Day is a key event where early-stage insurtech startups showcase their innovative products to industry professionals. This event marks the culmination of GIA's mentor-driven business accelerator program designed specifically for insurance industry startups.

At Demo Day, participating companies present their business models, technologies, and growth plans to an audience of investors, insurance executives, and potential partners. Recent participants have included companies like AppEase, Cybercade, Innocuous AI, Lotus Fertility Insurance, and Tumbleweed.

The Global Insurance Accelerator focuses on startups that are building disruptive products and technologies for the insurance industry. Their hybrid accelerator program accepts applications from pre-seed stage companies looking to gain traction in the insurance market.

Demo Day typically takes place in May, allowing attendees to see firsthand how these startups aim to solve real problems in the insurance sector. For businesses interested in insurance innovation, this event provides valuable networking opportunities and insights into emerging insurtech trends.

8) Iowa Venture Capital Association Networking

The Iowa Venture Capital Association (IVCA) hosts regular networking events that connect startups with potential investors. These gatherings are prime opportunities for entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas and make valuable connections.

IVCA maintains a comprehensive list of resources for early stage businesses that includes events specifically designed for the startup community. They partner with other organizations to create a robust ecosystem for new ventures in Iowa.

Their networking events often feature successful founders who share insights about raising capital in the region. These real-world experiences provide practical knowledge for startups seeking funding.

The association frequently collaborates with organizations like InnoVenture Iowa and Network Ventures to expand networking opportunities. Their investment summit events attract angel investors looking for promising Iowa startups.

Attendance at IVCA networking events can help entrepreneurs forge lasting relationships with key players in the investment community. These connections often prove crucial for startups at critical growth stages.

9) Iowa Startup Pitch Competition

Iowa hosts several pitch competitions for entrepreneurs looking to showcase their ideas and secure funding. The Fall Startup Pitch Competition at Iowa State University invites students from all colleges to deliver 90-second pitches about their business ideas to a panel of judges for cash prizes.

Winners in both the new idea and existing business categories advance to further competitions, making it a valuable stepping stone for student entrepreneurs.

For non-student entrepreneurs, the InnoVenture Challenge pitch competition in Des Moines offers startups five minutes to present, followed by a 10-minute Q&A with judges. This event is open to the public and provides exposure to investors.

The Innovation Challenge at the University of Iowa distributes up to $225,000 in prizes during the 2024-25 academic year. Phase 1 features an elevator pitch competition in Fall 2024 with up to $75,000 in prizes.

These competitions present excellent opportunities for Iowa startups to gain visibility, receive feedback from experienced professionals, and potentially secure early-stage funding to help grow their businesses.

10) Midwest Entrepreneurs Roundtable

The Midwest Entrepreneurs Roundtable provides Iowa startup leaders with a platform to network and exchange ideas. These discussions focus on practical business challenges and regional opportunities.

The roundtable events happen quarterly, with the next session scheduled for early 2025. At the February 27th event, startup community builder Diana Wright will speak about regional entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Topics often include statewide incentives, funding opportunities, and support programs available to Iowa businesses. Past roundtables have featured discussions on market expansion and talent acquisition strategies unique to the Midwest.

Participants gain access to mentors, investors, and potential business partners. The roundtable format encourages honest conversations about the realities of building companies in Iowa.

Unlike larger conferences, these intimate gatherings allow for deeper networking and problem-solving. Attendance is typically limited to ensure quality interactions among participants.

The strong networks of support in the Midwest are a key focus, connecting entrepreneurs with resources that can accelerate their growth within the region.

The Impact of Startup Events on Iowa's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Startup events across Iowa create tangible business growth and innovation by connecting founders with resources and opportunities. These gatherings serve as catalysts for economic development in the state's growing tech and business sectors.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

Startup events in Iowa provide crucial platforms for entrepreneurs to build meaningful connections. At these gatherings, founders meet potential co-founders, employees, and business partners who can help transform ideas into successful ventures.

The Iowa startup community is thriving with regular meetups, pitch competitions, and industry-specific events that foster relationship-building. These connections often lead to partnerships, shared resources, and collaborative problem-solving.

Events like the Technology Association of Iowa conferences create environments where entrepreneurs can:

• Exchange ideas with peers facing similar challenges
• Find complementary skill sets to strengthen their teams
• Discover potential clients or customers
• Build relationships with established business leaders

These interactions frequently result in new business formations and strategic alliances that might not otherwise develop.

Access to Mentorship and Investment

Iowa's startup events deliver direct pathways to expert guidance and funding opportunities. Entrepreneurs gain access to seasoned business leaders who provide valuable feedback on business models, products, and growth strategies.

Programs like the Iowa State University Startup Factory offer structured mentorship where founders attend regular sessions with assigned mentors. This guidance helps startups avoid common pitfalls and accelerate their development.

Investment connections at these events are equally valuable. Entrepreneurs can:

• Present to angel investors and venture capitalists
• Join pitch competitions with cash prizes
• Connect with grant programs and funding agencies
• Meet successful founders who might become investors

The Startup Iowa Hot List helps highlight promising companies to investors looking for opportunities in the region. This visibility can dramatically increase a startup's chances of securing needed capital.

Key Organizations Driving Startup Events in Iowa

Several organizations work behind the scenes to create valuable startup events across Iowa. These groups provide resources, connections, and platforms that help new businesses grow in the state.

Iowa Startup Accelerator

The Iowa Startup Accelerator (ISA) plays a crucial role in the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Based in Cedar Rapids, ISA runs a 90-day intensive program that helps startups develop their business models and connect with investors.

ISA hosts regular pitch competitions and networking events throughout the year. These events give new businesses chances to showcase their ideas and meet potential partners or investors.

The accelerator works with startups in various industries, including agriculture technology, healthcare, and software development. Companies that participate in their programs receive mentorship, workspace, and potential funding opportunities.

ISA also offers educational workshops on topics like customer acquisition and financial planning. These workshops help founders gain practical skills they need to grow their businesses.

Iowa Economic Development Authority

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) supports startup growth through grants, tax incentives, and event sponsorships. This state agency works to strengthen Iowa's economy by helping new businesses launch and expand.

IEDA funds and organizes the Iowa tech events and innovation conferences that bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. Their annual Innovation Expo connects startups with resources and potential customers from across the Midwest.

The authority manages the Iowa Innovation Corporation, which runs startup-focused programs in rural and urban communities. Their Proof of Commercial Relevance (POCR) funding helps startups test and validate their business ideas before seeking larger investments.

IEDA also partners with universities and community colleges to develop talent pipelines for growing startups. Their initiatives help new businesses find skilled workers in technology, manufacturing, and other key sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Iowa's startup ecosystem offers numerous events and opportunities for entrepreneurs and tech professionals. These FAQs address common questions about schedules, participation requirements, and networking opportunities.

What is the schedule for the upcoming Iowa Tech Summit?

The Iowa Tech Summit is scheduled for September 21-22, 2025, in Des Moines. The two-day event will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities.

Registration opens July 15, 2025. Early bird tickets are available until August 10 at a 15% discount.

The summit will run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM both days, with an evening reception on the first day for tech community networking.

Which events are hosted by the Technology Association of Iowa this year?

The Technology Association of Iowa (TAI) is hosting several major events in 2025. The annual TAI Conference is scheduled for October 3-4 in Cedar Rapids.

The Iowa Technology Leadership Institute will run quarterly sessions in March, June, September, and December. Each session focuses on different leadership aspects.

TAI also hosts monthly roundtables in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Iowa City for technology professionals to discuss industry trends and challenges.

How can startups participate in the Iowa Technology Leadership Institute?

Startups can apply for the Iowa Technology Leadership Institute through the TAI website by July 15, 2025. The program costs $1,200 per participant with scholarships available for early-stage companies.

Participants must commit to attending all four quarterly sessions. Each startup is allowed to send up to two team members.

The institute focuses on developing leadership skills specifically for Iowa startup community founders and executives through mentorship, workshops, and peer learning.

What are the key focus areas for this year's TAI Tech Summit?

This year's TAI Tech Summit will concentrate on artificial intelligence implementation, cybersecurity practices, and sustainable technology development. Each track offers specialized workshops and speaker sessions.

The AI track covers practical applications for small to medium businesses and ethical considerations. The cybersecurity track addresses emerging threats and compliance regulations.

The sustainable technology track explores green tech innovations and funding opportunities specifically relevant to Iowa's economic landscape.

Are there any technology workshops for educators similar to Teach Iowa?

Yes, the EdTech Iowa Conference on August 5-6, 2025, in Ames offers specialized workshops for educators. The event focuses on classroom technology integration and digital teaching methods.

Registration costs $175 for educators with district discounts available. The conference includes hands-on sessions with educational technology platforms and curriculum development tools.

Teach Iowa Tech, a separate initiative, runs monthly virtual workshops throughout the school year that are free for Iowa educators.

Can you provide a list of networking opportunities for tech entrepreneurs at Iowa technology conferences?

The Startup Weekend Iowa City 2025 offers intensive networking through its 54-hour entrepreneurial experience. Participants work in teams to develop business ideas with mentors and potential investors present.

The Iowa Angel Investor Summit provides dedicated networking sessions between entrepreneurs and investors. Pre-scheduled pitch meetings are available for qualified startups.

1 Million Cups Des Moines hosts weekly Wednesday morning meetups where entrepreneurs can present ideas and connect with peers, mentors, and potential partners in a casual coffee setting.