In August, the ISRC welcomed BioConnect Iowa and Indigo Ag as its newest industry partners. Each company has a representative on the ISRC’s Industry Advisory Council and will provide financial support to the center, which is leveraged with soybean checkoff funds from the Iowa Soybean Association to support soybean research at Iowa State. 

“We are excited to welcome BioConnect Iowa and Indigo Ag as our newest partners,”said ISRC co-director Greg Tylka. “BioConnect Iowa will bring a unique, innovative and entrepreneurial perspective to the center and help us expand our reach. Indigo Ag is recognized for working collaboratively with other industry members for the good of Iowa farmers. They will complement the center’s current partners very well.” 

"Collaborating with the Iowa Soybean Research Center, the Iowa Soybean Association, and industry partners is a crucial step in enhancing Iowa’s leadership in bioscience innovation. This partnership will drive bioscience research in soybeans, bolster business growth in Iowa, attract and retain talent, and support Iowa’s soybean farmers and industry," said Paul Schickler, chair of BioConnect Iowa’s Board of Directors. 

“Getting involved with the Iowa Soybean Research Center was a simple decision as we have been working with Iowa State University and the Iowa Soybean Association the last couple of years to validate bio control products that we have discovered and commercialized for soybean pests and pathogens. We truly want to partner with ISRC to enable and bring new innovations to soybean growers,” said Corey Nikkel, director of sales enablement for Indigo Ag.

“We look forward to adding BioConnect Iowa and Indigo Ag to the ISRC Industry Advisory Council. BioConnect Iowa has a unique focus partnering with innovators and entrepreneurs, which will elevate our opportunity to translate research insights into action enhancing soybean farmers’ productivity, profitability and sustainability. Indigo Ag brings an aligned perspective in advancing science- and technology-driven ag products that will strengthen farmers’ livelihoods,” said Christie Wiebbecke, chief officer of research and conservation for the Iowa Soybean Association and chair of the ISRC’s Industry Advisory Council.