Deadline: Nov. 1, 2025

The 2026 Iowa Biotechnology Showcase & Conference (IBSC) is an annual event hosted by IowaBio that brings together innovators, biotech leaders, investors, and support vendors from across Iowa for industry-specific programming and networking opportunities.

A key component of the conference is our Biotech Showcase Pitch Competition. Each year, six (6) startup companies are selected to pitch their biotech-related product or service for a chance to win the grand prize of $10,000. The pitch competition will take place on the morning of Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny, Iowa.

New in 2026, selected startups will also benefit from our mentorship program. Each company will be paired with an experienced industry mentor to refine their presentations and practice their pitches ahead of the competition. The mentorship includes two one-hour virtual sessions via Zoom—the first during the week of January 12, 2026, and the second during the week of February 2, 2026. This additional guidance is designed to strengthen presentations and maximize opportunities for success during the competition.

Returning in 2026, the Ag Startup Engine will offer the potential for a $25,000 dollar investment, pending final due diligence, into one company that pitches during the Biotech Showcase Pitch Competition on March 4, 2026.

If you are interested in competing, please submit your application by Nov. 1, 2025. For more information, please contact Andy Bates at abates@fin-strategies.com.