Enhancing the ecosystem that develops, launches and grows entrepreneurs and startups
The Entrepreneurial Investment Awards (EIA) program provides financial assistance to Iowa-based organizations that directly support entrepreneurs and early-stage startups. These resource providers play a critical role in helping new ventures create, locate or expand a business in Iowa.
APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN
Applications for Fiscal Year 2026 are now open and will be accepted until Friday, October 24, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. CT. Applicants must confirm eligibility with IEDA and be invited to apply prior to submitting materials.
To qualify, an organization must offer comprehensive business development services specifically designed for emerging and early-stage innovation companies. Those services may include, but are not limited to:
- Corporate development
- Business model development
- Business planning
- Marketing
- Financial strategies and management
- Mentoring and management coaching
- Networking
Awards under the EIA program are not guaranteed and are determined through a competitive review process. A single service provider may receive up to $200,000, but the actual award amount, if any, will be based on committee recommendations and available funding. Funds must be used to cover operating costs that directly support business development services for emerging and early-stage innovation companies.
Highlighted projects from previous award recipients:
- Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce established the Kitchen Council food incubator to offer comprehensive services to the food industry and food-based startups.
- Mason City's NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center assisted existing rural businesses with opportunities to pursue rapid growth through technology or technology-enabled new markets.
- Ames' ISU Research Park created the ISU Startup Factory, a new model bringing together critical resources to move technology from the lab to the marketplace.
Eligibility
- A service provider with a principal place of operations in Iowa
- Offer a comprehensive set of business development services targeted to emerging and early-stage innovation companies
Application Process
- The application window is open until Friday, October 24, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. CT.
- To verify eligibility and receive a current application, please contact Megan Brandt at megan.brandt@iowaeda.com or 515.348.6198.