The Iowa State University Research Park plays a key role in the economic development activities of Iowa State University as it relates to technology transfer. It is part of a comprehensive innovation network. This network links technology creation, business formation, and development assistance with established technology firms and the marketplace.

The ISU Research Park has constructed a multi-tenant building that houses an 8,000 square foot wet-lab incubator facility. The incubation facility provides critically needed laboratory space for the growth and development of start-up, spin-off, and established biotechnology companies.

Wet-Laboratory Space

• Existing lab space sizes from 300 square feet up to 2,000 square feet, complete with fume hood, casework, sinks, eyewashes, purified water, gas, vacuum, and air.
• Custom-designed labs also available
• Shared autoclave, centrifuge, freezer, tissue culture hoods, conferencing, and break room

Advantages to Biotechnology Firms

• Student interns
• Access to university laboratory equipment for supplemental research
• Scientific & entrepreneurial associations
• University expertise & collaborations
• Technology-based business assistance
• Technology-based seed capital

The ISU Research Park and its technology incubator, the Iowa State Innovation System (ISIS) are the center of a comprehensive technology transfer network. It is a network that nurtures and carries technology from the lab to the marketplace. By supporting the creation and de-risking of that technology and by providing an environment for its business formation and growth, The Research Park and ISIS are a vital link in the commercialization process. As these businesses flourish they graduate to one of the Park's multi-tenant facilities or into their own facility.

Existing tenant companies and organizations' spaces currently range from 500 to over 21,000 gross square feet. The Park oversees the multi-tenant facilities and arranges for property maintenance and repair when needed. The Park may also assist in telecommunications needs, space modifications, or health and safety issues. Tenant companies in these facilities can attend to the demands of their business rather than to the demands of their office space.

Businesses may choose to build their own facility within the Research Park. Parcel owners may apply for and receive a tax exemption if they can fulfill the research facility exemption.

Lots are available for sale or for lease. Available lots range in size from 2.65 acres to 8.53 acres. Developers can custom build so that their facilities can reflect the company's image as they grow in size and complexity.