On October 15, 2024, students involved in the various programs and classes through Start Something CALS embarked on the annual Startup Tour, visiting entrepreneurial businesses and startups around the Central and South Central Iowa areas.

The tour kicked off in Slater, Iowa at Gross-Wen Technologies, a business focused on recovering nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from waste-water in a sustainable manner, implemented in industrial and waste water treatment facilities. Students toured the Slater waste water treatment facility and were greeted with a firsthand look at the innovative and efficient revolving algae biofilm system developed by Gross-Wen Technologies. 

(Gross-Wen Technologies)

The second stop of the morning was in Osceola, Iowa at Revelton Distilling Co. Revelton is the second largest distillery in Iowa, specializing in high-end bourbon, whiskey, gin and vodka. Revelton places an emphasis on sourcing local corn and ingredients to deliver high quality products to an array of customers. Owner, Rob Taylor led students through a behind-the-scenes tour of the production and barrel rack house facilities, sharing how his dream turned into a successful reality.  

(Revelton Distilling Co.)

Lunch was provided by Timber Ridge Cattle Company, an Osceola, Iowa based catering business and cattle company focused on providing healthy high-quality beef products. Timber Ridge Cattle Company feeds their cattle flax seed, rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are then turned into products such as beef sticks, summer sausage, beef jerky, and more. Students enjoyed sampling the flax fed beef sticks.  

(Timber Ridge Cattle Company)

The fourth stop of the tour was at the Rose Farm in Norwalk, Iowa. Students explored the 25-acre farm where guests can experience flower-picking from the full flower gardens, farm-to-table dinners, workshops focused on culinary arts, floral arranging and more. Practicing sustainable farming methods and giving back to the community is an integral piece of the Rose Farm mission. Rose Farm provides a peaceful escape in a welcoming, nature-based setting, conveniently located just 20 minutes outside of the city.  

(Rose Farm)

The final stop of the day was at Tractor Zoom in West Des Moines, Iowa. Tractor Zoom is a startup connecting buyers with auctioneers and dealers to sell tractors and farm equipment using the innovative strategy of an online platform. Tractor Zoom is dedicated to offering customers a data driven approach to ensure transparency from start to finish. Students appreciated the collaborative and adaptable environment of Tractor Zoom.  

(Tractor Zoom)

Start Something CALS extends their gratitude to these five businesses for opening their doors and providing students with a unique perspective on creative-thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Your time and expertise are greatly appreciated as these students continue their entrepreneurial endeavors.