On August 22, 2024, Billie Asmus, founder of Repaint Studios, won first place at the 19th annual John Pappajohn Iowa Entrepreneurial Venture Competition, held at Iowa State University in Ames. Competing against over 30 submissions, Asmus impressed the judges with her innovative and eco-friendly painting supplies, earning a $40,000 prize. Her flagship product, the Repaint Tray, is a reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid that replaces traditional single-use plastic trays, helping to reduce environmental waste in the home improvement industry. https://repaintstudios.com
Asmus, a Hampton, IA native, shared her journey through the competition, explaining, “This was my third year entering the Pappajohn Venture Competition. I promised myself that I would keep entering until I won.” Her persistence paid off, as she advanced from not making it past the first round in year one to an honorable mention in year two, and now, finally, taking home the first-place award.
The event began with a tribute to the late John and Mary Pappajohn, celebrating their lasting impact on entrepreneurship in Iowa through the Pappajohn Centers. Since 2006, the competition, supported by the Iowa Economic Development Authority, has invested over $1.3 million into Iowa businesses.
The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center, in partnership with North Iowa’s Small Business Development Center, continues to be a leader in supporting local entrepreneurs. For more information or assistance with your business, contact the NIACC Pappajohn Center at 641-422-4111 or pappajohn@niacc.edu.
