Statewide Commercialization Entity

Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) is seeking a qualified service provider to support the statewide commercialization of innovative businesses in three priority sectors – advanced manufacturing, biosciences, and information technology. The contractor will act as a “commercialization entity,” delivering a suite of services that span technical assistance, due‑diligence, mentorship, ecosystem development, program analysis, and post‑award administration. Key responsibilities include: • Conducting due‑diligence reviews and providing technical assistance for applicants to IEDA’s innovation platforms, including preparation for review panels and presentation coaching. • Managing a mentor/expert database, recruiting and coordinating industry mentors, and facilitating outreach across Iowa to promote IEDA programs. • Analyzing existing IEDA financial‑assistance and technical‑assistance programs, identifying gaps, and recommending improvements to enhance commercialization outcomes. • Building and maintaining a statewide innovation‑ecosystem network (universities, investors, service providers) and capturing performance metrics for reporting. • Supporting the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) / InnoVenture Fund through evaluation reports and advisory services. • Providing post‑award management, including payment follow‑up, compliance tracking, and CRM/database maintenance.