March 3 & 4, 2026
Ankeny, Iowa
Registration opens Jan. 5, 2026.
The Iowa Biotech Showcase & Conference (IBSC) is an annual conference hosted by IowaBio bringing together innovators, biotech leaders, investors, and support vendors from across Iowa for industry-specific programming and networking opportunities.
Highlights of the IBSC include:
- Biotech showcase pitch competition ($10,000 prize)
- Educational industry presentations
- Industry-focused legislative update
- Plenary keynote Political keynote
- Biotech Leader of the Year award presentation
- Networking receptions VIP dinner
Additional benefits of participation include:
- Showcasing your work to a diverse audience of fellow biotech enthusiasts and experts
- Connecting with potential collaborators, partners, and mentors
- Contributing to the celebration of Iowa's role in shaping the biotech landscape
- Elevating your profile within the biotech community
2026 Biotech Showcase Competition
Each year, six startup companies are selected to pitch their biotech-related product or service for a chance to win the grand prize of $10,000. The pitch competition will take place on the morning of Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny, Iowa.
New in 2026: Selected startups will be paired with an experienced industry mentor to refine their presentations and practice their pitches ahead of the competition.
The applications to apply for the 2026 showcase opened on Sept. 8, 2025, and are due on Nov. 1, 2025.
Present at IBSC as a Speaker or Panelist
IowaBio invites professionals from industry, government, and academia to submit proposals to present at the 2026 Iowa Biotech Showcase and Conference on March 4. This year’s theme, adaptation to change, encourages speakers to share success stories, best practices, and strategies for navigating challenges in biotech—from AI integration and workforce shifts to regulatory changes and consumer demands. We welcome interactive formats like panels or multi-speaker sessions that spark dialogue and highlight how your organization is preparing for the future.
Submit your proposal by Oct. 17, 2025, to be considered.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsoring the 2026 Iowa Biotech Showcase & Conference is a powerful way to highlight your company as a leader in Iowa’s dynamic and rapidly expanding biotech sector. Enjoy unparalleled opportunities for networking, brand exposure, and alignment with Iowa’s thriving biotech community.
New for 2026: Sponsors can now register themselves directly through our online portal—making it easier than ever to secure your spot and showcase your support.
Sponsorship registration will become available starting Oct. 1, 2025.
Biotech Leader of the Year Award
The Biotech Leader Award is one of the most esteemed honors and is presented annually at the Iowa Biotech Showcase & Conference among peers, colleagues, and industry leaders.
Those recognized with this honor are exceptional individuals who have shown leadership within their organizations and the industry, consistently delivered innovative biotech solutions, and actively advocated for Iowa's biotechnology sector.
This year's nomination application will be made available on Nov. 17, 2025.