Venture School Brings Practical Startup Training to Southeast Iowa Entrepreneurs

Local entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators have an exciting opportunity to sharpen their skills and turn ideas into action through Venture School, a statewide entrepreneurial training program hosted at the Regional Entrepreneurship Center at Indian Hills Community College.

Indian Hills venture school

Designed for both emerging startups and established professionals, Venture School provides hands-on education rooted in real-world experience. The program uses the National Science Foundation’s I-Corps curriculum to guide participants through customer discovery, market testing, and business model development—helping transform high-potential ideas into viable ventures.

A Unique Learning Experience

Unlike traditional business courses, Venture School focuses on active learning and practical application. Participants engage directly with customers, partners, and competitors to test their assumptions and refine their ideas. Through this process, entrepreneurs learn how to adapt, pivot, and grow in today’s rapidly changing business environment.

The program encourages participants to embrace innovation, learn from feedback, and build confidence in navigating the commercialization process.

Who Should Attend?

Venture School is ideal for a wide range of professionals, including:

• Startup Founders looking to turn ideas into market-ready solutions

• Corporate Innovation Teams testing new business concepts

• Existing Business Employees building entrepreneurial and strategic skills

• Business Leaders validating potential products through customer discovery

Whether you are launching something new or exploring ways to innovate within your current organization, Venture School offers tools and support to help you move forward.

Local Cohort Details – Ottumwa

A Venture School cohort will be offered locally at Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, making this opportunity accessible for entrepreneurs in Southeast Iowa.

📍 Location: Indian Hills Community College — Ottumwa
📅 Orientation: February 26 at 5:30 PM (in-person)
🗓 Class Sessions: Thursdays — March 5, March 12, March 26, and April 9

Participants will receive guided instruction, peer collaboration, and practical tools throughout the program.

Flexible Application Process

Venture School operates through a continuous application process, allowing entrepreneurs to apply when they are ready to take the next step. Once accepted, participants join a cohort that fits their schedule and regional availability.

This flexible format makes the program accessible to busy professionals balancing business, family, and community commitments.

Partnering to Support Local Entrepreneurship

The Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to help share this opportunity with our members and the broader community. Programs like Venture School play an important role in strengthening our regional economy by equipping entrepreneurs with practical skills, mentorship, and access to proven resources.

We appreciate the Regional Entrepreneurship Center and Iowa SBDC team for their continued commitment to supporting business development throughout Southeast Iowa.

Learn More and Register

Entrepreneurs interested in participating can learn more and register online:

👉 https://iowajpec.org/community-programs-and-resources/venture-school

Whether you are launching a new idea, growing an existing business, or exploring innovative opportunities, Venture School provides the tools and support to help you succeed.