Description
The Iowa Go-To-Market (G2M) Accelerator is a six- to eight-month, second-stage accelerator based in Iowa designed to help high-tech, research-driven startups advance commercialization, refine go-to-market strategies, strengthen investor pitches, and connect to professional networks and service providers. The program is a partnership among the ISU Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship (Startup Factory), BioConnect Iowa, and VentureNet Iowa, and is supported by a grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
Eligibility
• Iowa-based, research-driven tech startups with interest in commercialization and scalable growth.
• Startups ideally with prior participation in an accelerator, incubator, or other structured entrepreneurial program.
• Ventures typically with some level of product development or early customer engagement.
• Sector focus includes biosciences, ag-tech, advanced manufacturing, software, and other high-tech domains.
Process
Application & Review: Startups apply online; applications are reviewed and may include a pitch or panel review.
Selection: A small cohort (often 3–4 companies per cycle) is selected from Iowa-based tech startups, particularly those that have completed prior accelerators or incubators.
Program Engagement: Participants engage in one-on-one mentorship, group workshops, and advanced training in sales, leadership, marketing, finance, and commercialization planning.
Network Integration: Founders build relationships with industry experts, professional service providers (legal, HR, finance), and investor connections to strengthen their path to scaling and funding.
Outcomes: Companies emerge with more refined go-to-market plans, improved customer acquisition strategies, and elevated investor readiness.
What an Applicant can Obtain
✔ Customized mentorship from industry and domain experts.
✔ Advanced commercialization training tailored to scaling objectives.
✔ Access to pro bono business support in legal, financial, and marketing functions.
✔ Connections to investors and professional networks across Iowa’s innovation ecosystem.
✔ Peer learning and strategic workshops with cohort founders.
✔ Refined go-to-market and investor pitch readiness.
