The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center recently launched Venture Launch Lab, a new entrepreneurial incubator program designed to help aspiring and early-stage business owners build the knowledge, systems and confidence needed to successfully launch and grow a sustainable business. The Venture Launch Lab aims to fill a gap in entrepreneurial programming across the northern part of the state. Funding for the first cohort came from a USDA Rural Business Development grant. The program guides participants through seven core pillars essential to building a strong business foundation: Legal foundations, operations, human resources and leadership, marketing strategy, financial and tax essentials, strategy and growth and funding. “Venture Launch Lab was intentionally designed to bridge the gap between business planning and business execution,” said Candi Karsjens, executive director of innovation and entrepreneurship at NIACC, in a prepared statement. “Entrepreneurs need more than an idea to succeed. They need strong systems, sound financial practices, effective marketing strategies, and a clear roadmap for growth.” The first cohort brought together 11 businesses and 14 entrepreneurs from across North Iowa. The Venture Launch Lab cohort celebrated the completion of the program with a pitch competition. Seven teams competed before judges on June 2. The following prizes were awarded:
- First Prize ($1,000) – Beach Buddies, Sherri Stensrude and Bridget Herrick, Mason City
- Second Prize ($750) – Stone Heritage, Cait Dillavou, Clear Lake
- Third Prize ($500) – Cliff’s Place, Lauren Jepperson, Charles City