This week I had the joy of moderated a panel at BioInnovation Midwest on “Incubating the Future of U.S. Biomanufacturing: Key Building Blocks for Scaling Innovation from Startup through to Commercial Success.” with Dr. Chern-Hooi Lim, CEO of New Iridium, Brian Jacobson, Program Manager – Infrastructure, iFAB Tech Hub and Geoff Horst, Chief Innovation Officer, Ecovia Bio
It was an especially meaningful moment to share the stage with Chern,an alum of our Ray of Hope Accelerator. Seeing startups like New Iridium grow from idea to scaling company is a powerful testament to the role that nature-inspired innovation can play in shaping the bioeconomy. These are the solutions that not only reimagine materials, chemistry, and energy, but also show what’s possible when we look to nature as a model for resilience and ingenuity.
Conversations throughout the week reinforced that we’re at a tipping point.
From farmers to infrastructure providers, investors, policymakers, and startups, the entire supply chain was there, coming together to do the hard work of building a more sustainable economy.
What stood out most to me:
- The people in this sector are incredible; optimistic, and determined to replace petrochemicals with sustainable alternatives.
- The humble and mighty corn kernel is literally fueling and building the world around us.
- There is real momentum: investors are ready to finance, partners ready to collaborate, customers demanding the solutions.
I left Omaha humbled, inspired, and deeply hopeful. The partnerships being built here will shape the future of the U.S. bioeconomy and I’m grateful to be part of this movement.
A huge shout out to the incredible organizing team Paul MacDonald for his vision of building a conference that focuses on human connection and action, Leo Stemp for the MC moves that kept the two days fun and engaging and for the mighty organizing team who made it all look flawless, also the tea selection was much appreciated.
Such an enjoyable and impactful 2 days, I already have it marked on my calendar, Omaha 2026.
Sharing two highlights:
- Hosting the panel with our incredible speakers.
- Reconnecting with New Iridium, one of our accelerator alumni, now scaling their impact in the world.
Here’s to the brave innovators, funders, and partners working together to build what comes next.
