Iowa Tech Podcast

Latest Episodes:

The State of Innovation in Iowa: A Conversation with Brian Waller, President of TAI Oct 29, 2024

In this episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast, host Kaylee interviews Brian Waller, CEO of the Technology Association of Iowa (TAI). Brian shares his journey from initially working in political campaigns to leading TAI, underscoring the vital role of individuals like Debbie Durham in shaping his career. They discuss the unique collaborative spirit in Iowa, which fosters an ecosystem where technology and entrepreneurship thrive. Over the past decade, TAI has grown significantly, expanding its membership and initiatives to include large enterprises and startups alike. Brian emphasizes the importance of technology in every industry, noting shifts in how businesses view themselves as technology companies, and highlights the critical role TAI plays in connecting corporate and startup innovators.

The conversation also delves into future trends in Iowa's tech landscape, with a focus on the impact of artificial intelligence and automation. Brian expresses concerns about data center resources and cybersecurity, acknowledging these as significant challenges. He outlines TAI's role in legislative advocacy, emphasizing the need for technology professionals to be involved in policy-making to address future-proofing technology investments. The discussion touches on the importance of nurturing a diverse tech ecosystem and fostering an inclusive environment for all Iowans. Brian concludes by expressing his vision for Iowa to become the leading state for technology and innovation in the Midwest, highlighting TAI's commitment to supporting startups and bridging connections within the tech community.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/brian-waller-technology-association-of-iowa

Joel Harris: CEO and Co-Founder of Genvax Technologies Oct 22, 2024

In this episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast, host Kaylee welcomes Joel Harris, CEO and co-founder of Genvax Technologies. Joel shares his journey from growing up as the son of veterinarians and studying economics to joining his father's vaccine startup, Harrisvaccines, after the 2008 financial crisis. He discusses the challenges and experiences he faced, including the eventual sale of Harrisvaccines to Merck Animal Health. Joel also explains his transition into venture capital with the Ag Startup Engine, where he invested in over 40 companies, and his decision to return to entrepreneurship with Genvax Technologies. Genvax focuses on utilizing advanced RNA technology to address infectious diseases in livestock and the broader food supply chain, aiming to bring innovative, accessible solutions to the market.

Joel also reflects on his venture capital experience and offers advice for entrepreneurs navigating the current funding landscape. He emphasizes the importance of understanding investor motivations and maintaining constant communication with stakeholders. Joel highlights the role of mentorship in his career, particularly the influence of his father, and discusses his commitment to supporting innovation in the Midwest. He encourages founders to focus on solving real-world problems and to be mindful of the balance between pursuing grant funding and achieving commercialization goals. Joel concludes by expressing his willingness to mentor others.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/joel-harris-bioscience-and-ag-startups

Are accelerators dead? Oct 15, 2024

In this episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast, host Kaylee interviews Dan Israel from the Global Insurance Accelerator (GIA) about his work in supporting early-stage startups within the insurance industry. Dan discusses the unique value proposition of the GIA, which focuses on providing mentorship and support to startups with innovative ideas in insurance and financial services. The GIA operates a 100-day program annually, designed to help startups refine their business models and connect with industry leaders.

Dan also reflects on the broader ecosystem in Iowa and the role the GIA plays in fostering innovation and collaboration. He emphasizes the collaborative nature of Iowa's tech and startup ecosystem, which supports various players, including accelerators, investors, and government entities, in working together to nurture startups. Dan also shares his vision for the future of the GIA, focusing on securing financial stability, expanding its network of investors, and continuing to evolve its value proposition for startups and sponsors.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/dan-israel-insurtech-accelerators

A Better World: Pyrone Systems and the Global Impact of Bioscience Innovations Oct 08, 2024

The Iowa Tech Podcast, hosted by Kaylee Williams, Investment Director at InnoVenture Iowa, features an intriguing discussion with Dr. Alex Hutagalung, CEO and co-founder of Pyrone Systems. Pyrone Systems, a portfolio company of InnoVenture Iowa, focuses on sustainable chemistry, particularly developing a new natural insecticide called Pyronz. This insecticide aims to address the significant issue of resistance found in insects, such as mosquitoes, to traditional synthetic insecticides. The active ingredient, Pyronz, derived from the patchouli plant, provides a solution for resistant mosquitoes and other pests. The company has innovated a method to produce Pyronz at scale, using a sustainable chemical process developed in collaboration with experts from Iowa State University.

Dr. Hutagalung shares insights into the company's journey, emphasizing the importance of market-driven innovation and the value of mentorship and collaboration. He highlights the potential for Pyronz to revolutionize the insecticide market with its eco-friendly and effective properties. The company is currently seeking EPA approval in the U.S., expected to take about two years, but aims to launch in Malaysia sooner, utilizing an exemption from registration. This strategic move positions Pyrone Systems to tackle mosquito-related challenges in Southeast Asia, where diseases like dengue pose significant health risks. The podcast underscores the promising impact of Pyrone Systems' work and its potential to transform pest control on a global scale, while also reflecting on the entrepreneurial journey and the critical role of market need in driving successful innovation.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/alex-hutagalung-bioscience-innovations

The University of Iowa is Making Waves: UI Ventures with Chris Parker Oct 01, 2024

The Iowa Tech Podcast, hosted by Kaylee Williams, features a conversation with Chris Parker, Associate Director of Operations at UI Ventures. Parker discusses his journey from earning a PharmD at the University of Iowa to working with entrepreneurs in the biotech, med tech, and life sciences sectors. He highlights his experiences with startups, emphasizing the importance of identifying unmet needs, securing funding, and leveraging industry expertise. Parker shares insights into the challenges faced by startups, such as finding the right talent and navigating university systems, and underscores the collaborative efforts between UI Ventures and tech transfer offices to support commercialization.

Parker also elaborates on his recent participation in the Stanford BioDesign Global Faculty Training program, which focuses on identifying true unmet needs in medical innovation and applying these principles to various fields. He mentions notable startups supported by UI Ventures, including Digital Diagnostics and Gemini, and the importance of education and networking in fostering innovation. The podcast concludes with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for a beginner's mindset, willingness to fail fast, and the ability to bring in specialized talent. Parker encourages collaboration within Iowa's innovation ecosystem, aiming to elevate the state's reputation for technological advancements.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/chris-parker-ui-ventures

Meet Your Innoventure Challenge Judges! Sep 24, 2024

The Iowa Tech Podcast episode features host Kaylee Williams discussing the upcoming Innoventure Challenge with two distinguished judges, Adrienne Greenwald from VentureNet Iowa and Bernie Stone, an angel investor and mentor. The discussion revolves around the evaluation criteria for the Innoventure Challenge, emphasizing the importance of understanding the market, presenting a clear and compelling business model, and the critical role of the management team. Both judges stress the significance of genuine engagement with the business plan, advising against relying solely on AI for application completion and highlighting the value of clear, concise, and honest responses.

Additionally, the episode provides practical advice for applicants, such as the importance of following instructions meticulously and being prepared to explain complex ideas in simple terms. Bernie and Adrienne note common pitfalls, such as vague financial projections and over-reliance on polished pitches without substantive backing. They encourage founders to do thorough homework, seek mentorship, and focus on the real-world application of their ideas.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/greenwald-and-stone-innoventure-challenge-judges

Understanding the Fundraising Landscape with Charlie Cuddy Sep 17, 2024

In this episode, Kaylee Williams interviews Charlie Cuddy, the Managing Partner at Move VC and Executive Director of the Nebraska Startup Academy. Charlie shares his journey from being a high school math and computer science teacher to becoming a venture capitalist. He discusses the origin and mission of Move Venture Capital, an early-stage venture capital fund focused on investing in startups across the Midwest. Charlie highlights the importance of the state’s Prototype Grant, which offers non-dilutive capital to startups in Nebraska, and the efforts of Move Venture Capital to match these funds to support early-stage entrepreneurs. He also touches on the launch of the Nebraska Startup Academy to provide education, resources, and connections to founders and investors in the region.

The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities associated with venture capital in the Midwest. Charlie emphasizes the importance of having a strong team, understanding the market, and being prepared to pitch effectively when seeking investment. He notes that while the region has a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, there is a need for more risk capital to support innovative startups. Charlie also shares valuable resources for entrepreneurs and investors, including recommended books and podcasts.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/charlie-cuddy-fundraising-landscape

A Veteran of the Des Moines' Startup Community, John Jackovin Sep 10, 2024

On this week’s Iowa Tech Podcast, host Kaylee Williams interviews John Jackovin, the Executive Director of the Broker Tech Ventures Accelerator. John shares insights into his extensive experience in the Des Moines startup ecosystem, discussing his journey from founding multiple companies to his current role in supporting startups through the Accelerator. The conversation covers John's early ventures, including a successful tech startup and a less successful smoothie business, highlighting important lessons learned along the way. They delve into the unique model of the Broker Tech Ventures Accelerator, which focuses on engaging startups in pilots and proof of concepts (POCs) with industry partners, rather than traditional venture capital funding. This approach has proven successful, with many participating companies raising significant capital and achieving substantial market value.

The discussion also touches on John's side project, Fluid, a custom software development agency. John explains how Fluid's agile, iterative approach to software development helps startups and established businesses alike in creating effective and user-friendly products. They reflect on the importance of community involvement in building a vibrant startup ecosystem and the personal motivations for John's continued commitment to Iowa's tech scene. The episode concludes with some fun questions about John's personal routines and influential books, offering a deeper glimpse into his life and philosophy.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/john-jackovin-startup-life

How to Raise Venture Capital with Liz Keehner Sep 03, 2024

The latest episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast features an interview with Liz Keehner, Vice President at Next Level Ventures. Liz shares her journey from Iowa to Austin, Texas, where she gained valuable experience in venture capital before returning to Iowa to raise her family and continue her career. She discusses her role at Next Level Ventures, overseeing investments in Iowa-based technology companies, and highlights the importance of team, market opportunity, and product timing when evaluating potential investments. Liz emphasizes the need for founders to build relationships early and to be prepared with comprehensive data rooms during due diligence.

Liz also announces the upcoming launch of Next Level Ventures' third Iowa-focused venture fund, which will target investments in agriculture and bioscience sectors, reflecting Iowa's competitive advantages. She explains that the new fund aims to raise $50 million, with plans to make initial investments of $1-2 million per company. Liz shares her passion for supporting women in venture capital and the importance of having a diverse leadership in the industry. She shares advice for startup founders seeking venture capital and the significance of networking and building relationships within the ecosystem.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/liz-keehner-venture-capital

From Founding to Funding: Kirps on Building WorkHound and Shaping Iowa’s Startup Scene Aug 27, 2024

In this episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast, host Kaylee Williams interviews Andrew Kirpalani, co-founder of WorkHound, about his entrepreneurial journey. Andrew shares how he and his co-founder Max Farrell transformed a bar napkin sketch into a successful startup that provides employee engagement and feedback solutions for non-desk workers. He discusses the various stages of the company's growth, from the early days of validation at truck stops to raising significant funding rounds and eventually transitioning out of operational roles. Andrew emphasizes the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and being prepared to take on different challenges at each stage of a startup's life cycle.

Andrew also reflects on his post-exit experiences and his current involvement in the Iowa startup ecosystem. He highlights the need for more early-stage capital and support programs to help local entrepreneurs succeed. Andrew is actively working on establishing a new accelerator program in Des Moines in collaboration with Gener8tor, aimed at providing funding and resources to diverse, high-quality startups in the region. He shares his passion for supporting founders and enhancing the ecosystem, driven by his own experiences and challenges as a startup founder. The episode wraps up with Andrew discussing his future plans, including his interest in venture capital and ecosystem building, as well as his personal journey in finding balance and productivity post-startup exit.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/andrew-kirpalani-startup-life

Bench to Marketplace: Building a Biotech Startup with Dr. Tony Vanden Bush Aug 20, 2024

In this insightful episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast, host Kaylee Williams sits down with Dr. Tony Vanden Bush, CEO of Syntherna, to explore the intricacies of biotech entrepreneurship, the challenges of scaling scientific discoveries, and the leadership lessons learned along the way. With a strong background in biochemistry and immunology, Dr. Vanden Bush has traversed a unique path, from academia to becoming a serial biotech entrepreneur, and he shares his journey with candid reflections and valuable advice.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/tony-vanden-bush-biotech

How to Get to Your First $1M in ARR with Emily Steele of The Hummingbirds Aug 13, 2024

Join us in our first podcast interview with Emily Steele, the CEO & Co-Founder of The Hummingbirds, a SaaS startup that connects hyper-local social media enthusiasts and influencers with their favorite local brands to increase sales. Emily shares the story behind her company, which harnesses the power of word-of-mouth marketing through a network of local influencers known as "Hummingbirds." She discusses the challenges and triumphs she's encountered on her entrepreneurial journey, offering insights into the business model that positions Hummingbirds as a B2B service. Emily also highlights the importance of fostering a strong company culture, particularly in a remote-first environment, and the adjustments they've made while expanding into new cities and scaling the business.

The conversation also explores the supportive nature of Iowa's startup ecosystem, with Emily emphasizing the value of community and mentorship among founders. She underscores how experienced entrepreneurs play a crucial role in guiding and uplifting new founders. The episode concludes with Emily's reflections on the future of Hummingbirds, where she encourages listeners to trust their instincts and stay true to their vision, while continuing to build a unique and vibrant company culture.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/emily-steele-hummingbirds-2