VSI Aerospace, received first place and $25,000. The company combines software and air pressure sensors to alert pilots of trajectory changes, enhancing safety and fuel savings. It was founded in 2008 and is based in Ames. Pictured: Accepting the award from Mr. John Pappajohn are Dr. Jerald Vogel, Co-founder and CTO and Dr. Atul Kelkar, Founder and CEO.
2010 — Energy Control Technologies
Danny Cantrell, co-founder of ECT
Winning the grand prize was West Des Moines-based Energy Control Technologies. Founded in 2008, the company designs, manufactures and implements automation systems for the oil and gas, biofuels, and industrial and manufacturing markets. ECT's systems improve operation safety and minimize the amount of energy consumed. ECT received $25,000 for its winning business plan. Pictured: Accepting the award, Danny Cantrell, a co-founder of ECT.
2009 — BodyViz
Dr. James Oliver, Founder and Curt Carlson, President & CEO of BodyViz
BodyViz, based in Ames, Iowa, creates software that provides vivid 3D visualizations of medical scans on the PC for physician education and surgical planning.
2008 — Submittal Exchange
Mark Ostanik, President
Submittal Exchange, of Adel, has a comprehensive, secure online system for reviewing construction submittals electronically. The system reduces paperwork, saves resources, and improves collaboration of architects, engineers and contractors on construction projects.
2007 — Ensoft Enabling Software
Suresh Kothari, President, receives award. John Pappajohn at far right.
Ensoft Enabling Software, spawned by research at Iowa State University's Knowledge-Centric Software Lab, develops customized tools, provides consulting services and sells software products. Clientele includes major aerospace and avionics companies.
2006 — iSEEK Company
Co-Founder, Senior Vice President & COO Dr. Don Flugrad and Dr. Abir Qamhiyah, founder and president of iSEEK Corporation
iSEEK company, led by Iowa State University professors Abir Qamhiyah and Don Flugrad, develops search engines for manufacturing and design companies that sort geometric shapes the way Google searches text.
The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers
