The funds are provided to support the development of Iowa State University innovations with commercial potential and to help more Iowa State technology reach the marketplace as the foundation for new Iowa companies and/or the growth of existing Iowa companies. The funding is intended to support a wide-range of stages in technology development, from the initial research concept (prior to intellectual property disclosure), to proof of concept and licensing and commercialization. Successful proposals typically have a clear commercial benefit or potential for the state of Iowa and must show a clear participation by Iowa industry(s).
Request for Proposals: Innovation Acceleration Fund RFP FY 25-26 FY26 Innovation Acceleration Fund Proposals Iowa State Economic Development & Industry Relations (EDIR) is now accepting applications for FY26 Innovation Acceleration Fund (IAF) grants program designed to expand the commercialization of ISU technology. The funds are designated to support the development of Iowa State University innovations with commercial potential and to help more Iowa State technology reach the marketplace as the foundation for new Iowa companies and/or the growth of existing Iowa companies. The grants program is supported by Iowa economic development appropriations to the Board of Regents (“Regents Innovation Fund”). The funding is intended to support a wide-range of stages in technology development, ideally beyond proof of concept, to licensing and commercialization. All proposals should have a clear commercial benefit or potential for the state of Iowa. Interdisciplinary proposals are encouraged. Download the Innovation Acceleration Fund Proposal Application FY25-26, and the evaluation form here. Deadline for receipt of applications is May 23, 2025. The review panel date for selected applications is June 25, 2025, between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., at the ISU Research Park Core Facility, 1805 Collaboration Place, Ames. Participation in the review panel is required; presentations are 15 minutes (5-minute presentation; 10-minute Q&A).
Prior to initiating the application process, applicants are encouraged to contact the Office of Innovation Commercialization, [email protected], 515-294-4740, to discuss their idea and potential fit for this funding opportunity.