In this episode, host Kaylee Williams speaks with Jan Finlayson, Director of Events at NewBoCo, about EntreFest—Iowa’s 14-year-old entrepreneurship conference. After pivoting through COVID, EntreFest has emerged stronger, offering over 70 speakers across 33 sessions plus 3 keynote programs designed to deliver instant, actionable takeaways for attendees.
The conference features diverse programming, including an AI roundtable workshop with Josh McNary and Ben Dillon that moves beyond hype to practical applications for business leaders. A standout panel on women, work, and entrepreneurship in rural Iowa—led by Delaney Howell-Groth—addresses the unique challenges entrepreneurs face outside urban centers.
The afternoon keynote celebrates sports entrepreneurship, featuring current and former Hawkeye athletes including Carson Lane (track, tech innovation), Jacey Hall (Unbreakable Female Athlete), Kenyon Murray (sports complex development), and Ike Batchelor (Stallion Brand).
Beyond stellar content, EntreFest prioritizes the attendee experience. Jan emphasizes generous networking time with hour-and-a-half lunches, half-hour breaks, and evening cocktail events—all included with ticket purchase ($375 for full conference, $200 for single day). Three pitch competitions offer significant prize money: the Wednesday night Shark Tank-style event features established startups like GWT and GenVax, while Thursday’s Venture School and Friday’s Hy-Vee-sponsored competition (offering $15,000 in prizes) showcase early-stage founders.Jan’s vision extends beyond the main event. NewBoCo is expanding entrepreneurial support to smaller Iowa communities through statewide outreach in Fairfield, Clinton, Manchester, and soon Grinnell. The goal is bringing mini-EntreFest events to these areas, democratizing access to resources and connecting rural entrepreneurs with mentorship and funding opportunities. EntreFest runs June 10-12, with registration available at entrefest.com