Austin Startup Factory Announces Second Cohort in 'Node' Program

AMES, Iowa (June 21, 2018) - The Austin Startup Factory (Austin SUF) today announced the second cohort in their “node” program. Created by the Development Corporation of Austin, Austin Community Growth Ventures is working to increase commercialization in Austin, Minnesota. The Austin Community Growth Ventures partnered with the Startup Factory Network, and in January, began programming with three companies in its inaugural cohort.

Companies in the Austin SUF node program participate in the same 52-week accelerator curriculum as the Iowa State Research Park-based Startup Factory, but do so remotely, with assistance coming from Austin Community Growth Venture counselors. Those admitted to the program apply via a formal application process and with the recommendation of a local counselor. Those selected attend weekly remote classes and gain access to the Iowa State Startup Factory administrative, teaching and mentor teams, while also attending several in person training sessions held at the Iowa State University Research Park.

The Austin Startup Factory Cohort Two Teams include:

SkyWorks, founded by Sam Barsness, is a marketing and aerial imaging service that aims to help clients increase revenue with strong marketing techniques and decreases operational cost with thermal drone inspections.

Level4 Staffing, founded by Eric Connett and Brian Ward, provides installers and solutions to the telecommunications installation industry.

Three teams participated in Austin SUF Node Cohort One. Those companies will now move to the second half of their 52-week program, which is a customized approach outside of the classroom that is designed in cooperation with the Startup Factory teaching and mentoring team.

The Startup Factory Network will introduce their latest teams at a kickoff, reception and networking event on Thursday, June 21 in a reception from 4-6 pm at the Iowa State Economic Development Core Facility (remarks: 5 pm). The event is free and open to the public.

About Startup Factory

The Iowa State University (ISU) Startup Factory is a 52-week intensive program housed at the ISU Research Park (ISURP). Entrepreneurs in the Startup Factory 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. For more information on the ISU Startup Factory program or press inquiries, contact Alison Doyle at 515-296-4204, adoyle@iastate.edu or visit isustartupfactory.org