Innovation At Work: 2026 By Numbers

Research that matters

Developing innovative technologies to make roads safer and last longer is one example of how Iowa State researchers are improving the lives of Iowans. Funding for this work is part of the $329.9 million researchers attracted for fiscal year 2025. The funding also supports efforts to create a modern electric grid, expand access to smart manufacturing tools and more.

Construction crews working on a stretch of highway surrounded by green farm fields.

Navigating artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence is reshaping business, and Iowa State is leading efforts to help Iowa industry respond. ISU's Center for Industrial Research and Service hosts expert-led sessions to demonstrate how businesses can use AI to solve problems, improve performance and remain competitive. More than 1,400 industry professionals have attended the training.

Business and industry professionals sitting at roundtables for an AI presentation

ISU technologies benefit Iowa businesses

Nearly 20 Iowa companies licensed Iowa State technologies in FY2025 generating $15.3 million in revenues. Globally, sales of Iowa State licensed technologies exceed $136 million. Iowa State has 108 license and option agreements yielding income.

Researchers in a lab setting. One is holding a plant and the other a sensor licensed by an Iowa company.

Fostering an entrepreneurial mindset

Iowa State students are developing an entrepreneurial mindset with access to more than 100 courses across all undergraduate colleges. During the 2024-25 academic year, more than 20,000 students enrolled in an entrepreneurship course. Additionally, the ISU Pappajohn Center is supporting young entrepreneurs with financial awards totaling $268,00 to seed new startups.

Student standing in front of a red Start Something banner. Student has a bicycle and is making a pitch to judges for a pitch competition.

Boosting small business sales

Iowa's Small Business Development Center supported 5,467 businesses across the state in 2025 - reaching at least two unique clients in every Iowa county. As a result, those businesses created more than 2,000 new jobs, generated nearly $83 million in new capital, $126 million in increased sales and 235 new business starts.

Business owner standing in front of a rack of wedding dresses.

Helping farmers optimize technology

Planter University has taught hundreds of Iowa farmers and ag professionals how to optimize technology and improve planter efficiency, increasing profitability. The ISU Extension and Outreach program generates $35 million annually in financial value to farmers through in-person training. Over the past five years, the program has returned over $100 million in value to the state.

Farmers having a conversation while standing next to a piece of red farm equipment.

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