CEDAR RAPIDS – Alex Taylor has been named the new Managing Director of the Iowa Startup Accelerator (ISA).
Taylor, a longtime entrepreneur, business leader, and educator, has ambitious plans to expand the Iowa Startup Accelerator as the program enters its seventh year.
“Alex brings extensive experience building and scaling businesses to NewBoCo”, said Eric Engelmann, NewBoCo’s Executive Director. “He will strengthen and grow our startup accelerator programs; we’re excited to have him on our team.”
“NewBoCo and the ISA are tremendous resources for the region and state,” Taylor says. “They offer co-working space and a range of helpful expertise to startup founders in Iowa, including marketing, technology, operations and business development. I look forward to being part of this dynamic team to help organizations grow and succeed in Iowa.”
Iowa Startup Accelerator is an intensive program that provides instruction and guidance to help tech-based startup businesses establish a foundation for scalability and financial success in industries such as ag, health, education, manufacturing, and transportation. In addition to instruction and hands-on experiential learning, the program matches startups with world-class mentors, Midwestern work ethic, seed funding, and development expertise to take them from concept to successful launch in 90 days.
Taylor has a rich background in entrepreneurial endeavors. His career has included stints with McLeodUSA, Parsons Technology, LIVEware5, Dell Computer Corporation, Efunds, and most recently Digital Diagnostics in Coralville, IA. In addition to helping establish the Tippie Executive MBA program for the University of Iowa, Taylor continues his teaching appointment as adjunct faculty. Areas of expertise for Alex include business development, digital marketing, business communications, public relations, human resources, and executive leadership.
Additionally, Alex volunteers with several area non-profit organizations, and with his wife co-owns Woofables Gourmet Dog Biscuit Bakery in Coralville.
“This opportunity allows me to combine my background in education and business development with entrepreneurial skills and experiences to help people with good ideas, develop them into successful startup businesses,” said Taylor.
Taylor brings ambitious plans to the Iowa Startup Accelerator in his new role. In addition to increasing statewide awareness and accessibility to the startup accelerator program, Taylor aims to enhance the 13-week program with additional business and educational components and mentoring resources. He also seeks to build ongoing programs and resources to continue the growth and support of participating businesses beyond the 13 week accelerator program.
“The environment and people at NewBoCo are uniquely collaborative and dedicated to help individuals and organizations grow and succeed,” Taylor says.
More information about NewBoCo and the Iowa Startup Accelerator can be found at newbo.co.
