Honoring Those Who Lead the Way 

Every year, IowaBio recognizes an individual who embodies what it means to move Iowa's biotechnology industry forward, not just in their own organization, but across the entire ecosystem.

The Iowa Biotech Leader of the Year Award is IowaBio's highest honor, presented annually at the Iowa Biotech Showcase and Conference (IBSC) in Ankeny, Iowa. It celebrates leaders who bring breakthrough ideas to market, connect science and policy, and inspire the next generation of Iowa's biotech community.

Who We're Looking For 

Nominations are open to individuals who:

• Lead with vision, playing a pivotal role in their organization and demonstrating exceptional leadership that elevates the industry around them.
• Drive innovation, bringing groundbreaking biotechnology products, services, or research to market.
• Champion Iowa biotech, actively collaborating with business and public policy leaders to advance Iowa's bioscience sector.

If you know someone who checks those boxes, they belong on the nomination list.

Award & Selection

The recipient is chosen by a committee of individuals with significant experience and standing in Iowa's biotechnology community. Nominations for the 2027 Iowa Biotech Leader of the Year Award open October 14, 2026, and close January 17, 2027. The 2027 winner will be recognized at IBSC on Wednesday, March 3, 2027, in Ankeny, Iowa.

Questions about the award or selection process? Contact Jessica Hyland at jessica@iowabio.org.