Unconference | Ag Startup Engine
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2025 Ag Innovators Unconference
2025 Ag Innovators Unconference
Thu, Oct 16
Digital Ag Innovation Lab
The Ag Unconference brings together ag-tech founders, investors, and entrepreneurs for open dialogue and meaningful connections. This year’s theme, Building Global from the Ground Up, highlights how innovation fuels global impact. New this year, participants can sign up for a field day!

NEW LOCATION!

Digital Ag Innovation Lab 
3800 University Blvd
Suite 1220
Ames, Iowa 50010

Schedule

Thursday, October 16th

8:00
8:30
8:45
9:30
10:00
10:30
11:15
12:00
1:00
2:30
3:00
3:45

Coffee/Check-in 
Welcome 
Morning Keynote

Startup Case Studies 
Panel
Networking Break 
Fireside Chat 
Lunch & Networking 
Shock Scenario Workshop 
Networking Break 
Afternoon Keynote
Award Presentation & Door Prizes 

Friday, October 17th

8:30
9:00
10:30
12:00
1:00
3:00

Load Bus
Alliant Energy Solar Farm 
Gross-Wen Technology Tour
Lunch
Startup Field Day
Wrap Up

Alliant Energy Solar Farm

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An innovative public-private partnership between Alliant Energy & Iowa State University that incorporate agrivoltaics.

Gross-Wen Technologies

GWT_23_NewFacility-JulyVisit-12.webp
Gross-Wen Technologies has developed an algae-based, sustainable wastewater treatment solution. We will be touring their facility in Slater, IA.

Startup Field Demos

Salin 247 planter_small.jpg
See a variety of new ag technologies in action. More details to come.

Ag-Tech Awards:

Once again this year at the Unconference, we will recognize two recipients for their achievements in ag-tech with the Ag-Tech Founder of the Year award and Ag-Tech Startup of the Year award! 

AG-TECH FOUNDER OF THE YEAR:

You do not need to be the CEO to receive this award but you do need to be the founder of a for-profit entity that is on the trajectory to raise or has raised venture capital.

This award will go to a founder who best embodies the following qualities:

  • High leadership capacity

  • Customer obsessed

  • Data driven

  • Ability to overcome obstacles/challenges

Sponsored by: Iowa Farm Bureau

AG-TECH STARTUP OF THE YEAR:

You do not have to be generating revenue, but you do need to be a for-profit entity that is on the trajectory to raise or has raised venture capital.

This award will go to a startup that best represents the following:

  • Has or has the ability to create meaningful customer impact

  • Innovative technology

  • Achieved significant growth/milestones

Sponsored by: Dentons Davis Brown

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Ag Unconference located?  Digital Ag Innovation Lab: 3800 University Blvd Suite 1220 Ames, Iowa 50010

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What hotel should I stay at while in Ames?  Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites, 2500 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50010 or ​

Radisson Hotel Ames Conference Center at ISU, 2609 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50010 will be the closest hotels. 

Where should I park at?  There is free, available parking in the Digital Ag Innovation Lab parking lot.

What is the dress code for the Ag Unconference?  The dress code is business casual.​

What should I expect at the Ag Unconference?  The Ag Unconference is unlike any traditional conference. This dynamic event fosters open dialogue and brings meaningful connections to founders and investors in the ag-tech space. This year’s agenda includes a lineup of industry veterans and startup founders who will share their insight on high-tech hardware.

 

Who should attend the Ag Unconference?  Founders eager to learn from like-minded entrepreneurs, investors looking to discover and support innovative ventures, entrepreneurial-minded individuals interested in ag-tech.

 

Why should I attend the Ag Unconference?  Connect with industry leaders and emerging talents, collaborate on innovative ideas and solutions, inspire and be inspired by the community’s brightest minds.​​​

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