Iowa State University Startup Factory

Meeting location at Embassy Club West:

Address (click for driving directions):
Des Moines Embassy Club - West
520 Market St. in West Des Moines, Iowa

Iowa has a thriving and vibrant startup ecosystem. And it’s one of our best kept secrets – nationally. We’ll talk about what makes it unique and how you can get involved.

Donna Ramaeker Zahn’s career has been agriculture and innovation focused from the beginning; recognizing the role that each plays in the vibrancy of economies and advancement of solutions. As a former Research Director for a Fortune 500 company, she was an intrapreneur that designed an innovative technology acceptance approach that took culture, science, ethics and critics’ views into account prior to new product launches. But her entrepreneurial spirit was fostered in High School, as her parents required each of their 12 children to secure a loan and start a business.

With more than 30 years of experience in management, strategic planning and public relations she spends her time in the global and local arenas. Globally, Donna helps decision makers in developing economies integrate genetic innovations into their portfolios.

Locally, she’s been involved in the startup scene since 2008 and is currently an Entrepreneur in Residence at the Iowa State University Startup Factory where she focuses on business strategy and development, establishing valuable connections for startup founders. She is past chair of the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Technology Commercialization Committee, and is currently serving on a Committee making decisions about federal funds for startups. Donna is known for devising creative solutions in undefined areas.