Iowa’s Top Innovators Prep For Spotlight at Innovation EXPO 2011
September 19, 2011 | Coralville, Iowa – Hundreds of Iowans will get EXPOsed to some of the state’s fast-growing new Iowa-based companies and innovators at Innovation EXPO 2011, held at the Coralville Marriott on October 26th.
The 5th Annual Innovation EXPO is an expanded event from past years. Representing a partnership between the Technology Association of Iowa (TAI), the Iowa Capital Investment Corporation (ICIC), the Entrepreneurial Development Center, Inc. (EDC), and the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers, Innovation EXPO 2011 is comprised of three state-wide events to enable fruitful connections between resources and entrepreneurs.
“Innovation EXPO 2011 will be a true showcase of the innovation that is occurring in Iowa,” said Curt Nelson, EDC President and CEO. “Attendees will have an unparalleled opportunity to experience the synergies created by assembling and integrating some of the state’s leading entrepreneurs together with investors, business, community and state leaders in one venue. If you have an interest or stake in Iowa’s economic future, this event is not to be missed.”
Innovation EXPO 2011 will kick off at 10 am with TAI’s all-day Pitch and Grow, during which 16 Iowa entrepreneurs at virtually any stage of the business life cycle practice their pitch before a supportive "think tank" of industry experts.
The momentum will build with ICIC’s afternoon Seed and Venture Forum, where pre-screened, investment-ready companies pitch to a panel of investors from across the state and country.
The EXPO will culminate with a celebration of our area's entrepreneurial risk-takers. EDC’s evening Entrepreneur Showcase and Inventor’s Garage will feature up to 60 entrepreneurs and inventors in a convention-like setting.
More information about the Innovation EXPO 2011 is available online. Visit the TAI, ICIC and EDC websites for information on each sub-event, or by contacting the event liaisons above.
About the Technology Association of Iowa (TAI)
TAI is the premier professional organization accelerating the success of Iowa's technology industry and tech-based economy. TAI members include organizations of every size in virtually every aspect of technology creation, production, application and education in Iowa. www.technologyiowa.com
About the Iowa Capital Investment Corporation (ICIC)
ICIC builds Iowa's entrepreneurial ecosystem through an evergreen, self-sustaining fund of funds and partner venture funds. ICIC and the Iowa Fund of Funds empower promising Iowa entrepreneurs and local investors by stimulating the growth of Iowa's professional venture capital and private equity industry. www.investiowa.com
About the Entrepreneurial Development Center, Inc. (EDC)
EDC was incorporated in 2003 as a community-sponsored, non- profit business accelerator. The company provides economic growth through the development and expansion of entrepreneurial enterprises and has successfully assisted over 400 Iowa-headquartered businesses. Its focus is on creating local wealth for area re-investment by growing and cultivating regional, national, and international businesses. www.edcinc.org
