The competition, scheduled for January 27, 2027, at the Holmes Murphy headquarters in West Des Moines, splits participants into two distinct categories: collegiate entrepreneurs and early-stage startup founders. By hosting the event, YPO Iowa aims to provide a direct pipeline between innovators in sectors like fintech, agtech, and manufacturing technology and the state’s most influential business executives.
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YPO Iowa Launches Statewide Innovation Challenge for Local Founders
Eight emerging entrepreneurs will compete for a share of $20,000 in prize funding this January, as the Iowa chapter of the Young Presidents' Organization opens applications for its inaugural innovation challenge to bridge the gap between student founders and established corporate leadership.
Dan Keough, chairman and CEO of Holmes Murphy and co-chair of the challenge, emphasized that the initiative focuses on translating bold concepts into viable local businesses. Winners in the startup category stand to secure up to $9,000, while top collegiate participants can earn $5,000. Alongside the funding, finalists will gain access to a network of mentors, including speakers such as Principal Financial Group’s retired CEO Dan Houston and Businessolver founder Jon Shanahan. Applications for the event are currently open for all Iowa-based students and early-stage companies.
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