Our Mission

Protostudios is a not-for-profit prototyping workshop within the University of Iowa’s Department of Innovation and Economic Development.

Our goal is to foster economic development within the state of Iowa.  Protostudios is equipped with 3D design software and the specialized equipment needed to produce small, high resolution devices, associated software and integrated electronics. Protostudios assists entrepreneurs, inventors, companies and University of Iowa faculty and staff in creating demonstrable proof-of-concept devices with an emphasis on anatomical analogs, bio-mechanical devices, surgical tools, embedded and IoT electronics. All intellectual property remains with the assisted parties.

Located in the Heart of Iowa City and immediately adjacent to the main University of Iowa campus, Protostudios employs experienced engineers that recruit, train and manage a team of university and community college students seeking hands-on training in design and advanced manufacturing. Protostudios’ way-of-working is a cooperative development process; not a “hands-off” contract development house. The client utilizes the assigned students as an extension of their staff, providing project direction and monitoring project progress on a regular basis. This allows clients to provide daily and detailed project guidance and have access to equipment and design talent at affordable rates. The students benefit by amassing a portfolio of real-world projects, increasing their career opportunities and the likelihood of remaining in Iowa upon graduation.