Globally, Iowa State continues to shine in its entrepreneurial efforts. In June 2023, ISU was awarded Entrepreneurial University of the Year for the Americas — a 33-country region — in an international competition in Barcelona, Spain. This award is presented by the Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities. It recognizes excellence in incorporating entrepreneurial initiatives throughout the university and prioritizing entrepreneurship and engagement in higher education. “This award recognizes our approach to incorporate entrepreneurial initiatives throughout the university and foster an innovative mindset in our students, faculty, and staff,” said Iowa State President Wendy Wintersteen (PhD ’88 entomology). “We’ve created a culture of entrepreneurship, thanks in great part to the generosity of donors and supporters, including an extraordinary gift that established the Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship 27 years ago.” Criteria for the award included leadership within the academic world, commitment to supporting the entrepreneurial concept and strategy, and outcome and impact of efforts.
ISU has made an entrepreneurial impact through cross-campus collaboration, flagship entrepreneurial programs like CyBIZ Lab, CYstarters, Startup Factory, and Start Something, and academic entrepreneurship courses and degree programs.
This latest honor for Iowa State’s entrepreneurship program is its third national or international award in as many years.