As I’m writing this column, I’m prepping for a Trade Mission to India. More to come on that as I report out next month. It’s amazing how time has flown by this year! It’s September and for IowaBio members, that means it’s time to look forward toward many upcoming events.

Our Annual Member Meeting is just around the corner on September 23 at BrownWinick Law. All members are welcome to attend. It’s a chance to mingle with our current board members, approve the incoming board slate for 2026, and network with fellow attendees. Please sign up here!

Mark your calendars for our Iowa Biotech Showcase and Conference March 3-4 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny.

We’re opening our Request for Proposals today Sept. 15. The theme is around adaptation to change. If that hits home, please review and consider applying to present at the conference, sharing your knowledge and expertise with your colleagues from across the Iowa biotech ecosystem. Our conference is only as good as our content, so please consider contributing to our biggest event of the year as a speaker!

In addition, our Showcase Pitch competition is already open for applications. If you know a company who should apply, please send them the link! We have a mentoring program this year for the first time, which will offer additional support to companies who make it to the final pitches. They can win a $10,000 cash prize and have a unique opportunity to receive a potential $25,000 investment from the Ag Startup Engine.

Get the word out and get going on those applications! We want you to be a part of IBSC 2026!