Iowa's startup scene is supported by a mix of public and private programs. These programs often focus on the state's key industries, including insurance and finance technology.
The Iowa Economic Development Authority has made over 120 investments in local businesses. Other groups like the Global Insurance Accelerator have also been active, making over 60 investments in insurance technology startups.
Below is our list of the best 5 accelerators and incubators in Iowa.
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2,189 Accelerators & Incubators
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1,600+ Unicorns
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250 BioTech & Health Investors
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250 AI Investors
List of 250 startup investors in the AI and Machine Learning industries, along with their Twitter, LinkedIn, and email addresses.
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250 Fintech Investors
List of 250 startup investors in the FinTech and Finance industries, along with their Twitter, LinkedIn, and email addresses.
Get the Sheet for $50Dedicated to fostering economic growth across Iowa, the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) provides a wide range of programs and services to businesses and communities. Their efforts focus on creating a pro-business climate, helping companies of all sizes to start, expand, and succeed within the state.
| Year Founded | 2000 |
| Founders | — |
| Nº of Investments | 122 |
| Nº of Exits | 3 |
Curql invests in fintech entrepreneurs to bring innovative technology directly to the credit union industry. As a collaborative ecosystem of credit unions, they provide startups with both capital and strategic partnerships to help them scale.
| Year Founded | 2020 |
| Founders | — |
| Nº of Investments | 46 |
| Nº of Exits | 1 |
| Program Type | On-Site |
| Duration (Weeks) | 12 |
As the first broker-led platform for insurtech, BrokerTech Ventures backs early-stage startups focused on innovating the insurance industry. They offer a unique distribution channel, connecting founders with a vast network of top-tier insurance agencies and brokerage firms.
| Year Founded | 2019 |
| Founders | Daniel Keough |
| Nº of Investments | 27 |
| Nº of Exits | 1 |
The Global Insurance Accelerator drives innovation in the insurance sector by supporting promising InsurTech startups. Its mentor-driven approach provides founders with invaluable industry knowledge and connections to succeed in the global market.
| Year Founded | 2014 |
| Founders | Brian Hemesath |
| Nº of Investments | 62 |
| Nº of Exits | 1 |
As Iowa's first accelerator, they run a 90-day program designed to propel pre- and early-revenue startups forward. The program supports ventures in industries from AgTech to FinTech, providing the intensive mentorship and resources needed to build a strong foundation for growth.
| Year Founded | 2014 |
| Founders | Eric Engelmann, Andy Stoll |
| Nº of Investments | 17 |
| Nº of Exits | 1 |