Posted 19 May, 2026
Ames-based BitCorn Technologies Inc. is developing a new system to help agricultural producers and businesses complete transactions faster and more efficiently. The company’s technology is designed to improve how financial transactions are settled while continuing to work with existing pricing and business practices used across the agriculture industry. BitCorn was awarded a $50,000 Proof of Commercial Relevance (POCR) loan to support testing of its system. The project includes placing equipment at participating agricultural sites, completing pilot transactions, reviewing regulatory requirements and refining a business model to support future growth and commercialization.
Founded in Ames, Immuno NanoMed Inc. is developing a new approach to vaccines designed to make them easier to use, store and distribute. The company is focused on respiratory vaccines, including an inhalable flu vaccine, with the goal of improving access and reducing barriers associated with traditional vaccine delivery. The company was awarded a $50,000 POCR loan to support continued development of its vaccine platform. Project activities include advancing product development, completing early-stage testing, strengthening intellectual property and preparing for future commercialization steps.
Hope Innovations LLC, located in Audubon, is developing a reusable medical applicator designed to improve comfort and ease of use for women receiving certain long-term therapies related to menopause care. The product is intended to replace traditional single-use plastic applicators with a more durable, hygienic and user-friendly option. Hope Innovations was awarded a $50,000 POCR loan to support steps needed to bring the product to market. Project activities include product refinement, manufacturing improvements, intellectual property development and marketing efforts to support commercialization and future growth.
Des Moines-based Hirely Workforce Technologies Inc., doing business as Jenu, is a health care technology company developing a secure digital credential platform for health care workers and employers. The platform is designed to help nurses, allied health professionals, students and health care organizations store, track and share professional credentials more efficiently. Jenu was awarded a $50,000 POCR loan to support further development and market launch of its platform in Iowa. Project activities include technology refinement, early-stage testing, intellectual property development and outreach efforts to support adoption by health care workers and employers.
Award recommendations for these funds are made by the Technology Commercialization Committee to the IEDA Board for approval.