The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) board today approved innovation funding for five Iowa startups. In total, the IEDA awarded $575,000 in funding.
Here are the five startups that received funding:
Continuum Ag (Washington)
Continuum Ag uses soil testing technologies to tailor recommendations for building soil health and regenerative agricultural practices. The company will use the money to continue software development to enhance usability and usefulness, and will expand its soil database through farm consultants in Continuum’s Top Soil network, a nationwide association of soil health focused agronomists.
The company was awarded a $25,000 Proof of Commercial Relevance loan for proof of concept work, product refinement, market planning and entry activities and key personnel.
Kimle Aquaculture (Ames)
Kimle Aquaculture is building a full-scale research and development demonstration production facility in Iowa that utilizes an algae-based recirculating aquaculture system. This facility will assist in both the deployment and commercialization of their full-scale integration model and the securing of purchase agreements for both shrimp and algae.
Kimle was awarded a $100,000 loan from the Demonstration Fund for marketing and equipment.
Original Appearance Manufacturing (Ames)
Original Appearance Manufacturing (OAM) designs and manufactures Quick Covers, precision-molded plastic covers that fit snugly over rust-prone areas of automobiles. Demand has outpaced the current manufacturing facility and OAM plans to outsource manufacturing to an Iowa manufacturer.
The company was awarded a $100,000 loan from the Demonstration Fund.
JBI Distributors (Red Oak)
JBI Distributors services the poultry industry in the areas of biosecurity, animal welfare and innovation. The company has created applicators that better apply disinfectants in barns and facilities to cut down on issues associated with bacteria and virus outbreaks, such as salmonella.
JBI was awarded a $100,000 loan from the Demonstration Fund, primarily for key personnel and equipment.
GKAT Reclamation (Des Moines)
GKAT Reclamation in Des Moines offers an environmentally sound reclamation solution when compared to current electronics waste disposal practices. The company has developed a patent pending, non-thermal, closed loop reclamation process for electronics recycling.
GKAT was awarded a $250,000 Propel loan from the Iowa Innovation Acceleration Fund for key personnel and facility acquisition.