Dwolla released a new Push-to-Debit payment functionality to its platform this week to allow for fast payouts to a debit card and to give additional flexibility to clients.
Companies using Dwolla’s API-based platform can add direct debit payments verified by Finix and settled by MetaBank for disbursements that can be completed within 30 minutes, the release said.
“Business payments need to be versatile and easily accessible, which is why Dwolla’s goal is to provide customers with as many options as possible to get funds to their end users,” said Dwolla CEO, Brady Harris in an announcement. “Because handling debit card transactions is an incredibly intricate process, our Push-to-Debit offering is one-of-a-kind. We took on the challenge of abstracting the card gateways so businesses don’t have to.”
Ames Seed Capital names new director
Mike Upah has been named the director of Ames Seed Capital.
“Ames Seed Capital is a tremendous resource for entrepreneurs in Central Iowa, not just as a source of capital, but also through the ability to access the talents and experience of the managers and investors in the fund,” said Upah in an announcement. “Having helped a wide variety of startups gain funding from Ames Seed Capital, and witnessing firsthand the impact those investments made, I’m quite excited to serve in this role where I can once again assist entrepreneurs and impact our communities here in Central Iowa.”
Upah began his new duties on Aug. 3 and will oversee and manage all Ames Seed Capital operations.
Venture School opens up applications statewide for this fall
The University of Iowa’s Venture School will be offered in Des Moines, Iowa City, Cedar Falls and Mason City this fall as the program continues to expand throughout the state.
Beginning in October, Venture School will be offered at the following locations:
- Northern Iowa Area Community College JPEC
- University of Northern Iowa JPEC
- Drake University JPEC
- University of Iowa Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
- Kirkwood Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Venture School is now accepting applications for its fall 2020 programs.
Applications open for ISU Startup Factory’s tenth cohort
Applications are open for ISU Startup Factory’s 10th cohort.
Those accepted into the program will receive formal training, resources, and access to a network of business mentors, advisors, counselors, and investors in two 26-week blocks. The first a formal curriculum centered on business validation, and the second, customized to their individual business needs.
Applications are due Nov. 30 and decisions will be announced in December.
Young Entrepreneur Convention postponed to Fall 2021
In response to the COVID pandemic, the 2020 Young Entrepreneurship Convention (YEC) has been pushed back to 2021.
“While we are disappointed we are unable to host an event during 2020, we are confident that this shared experience of building businesses during a pandemic will result in some robust conversation when we come together next Fall,” wrote the organization in an announcement.