The Des Moines Register reported that investor group Plains Angels has invested $750,000 over the last eight months. This is great news for Iowa startup companies. Venture capital in Iowa has lagged and groups like Plains Angels are definitely trying to change that.

There is a $300 application fee to present before the Plains Angels’ group. In some blog posts and other social media outlets, I’ve seen the fee criticized by some who expressed concern that it was just a fee collection group. I considered that assertion somewhat naive on the part of some seeking funding, but the recent news should alleviate some initial fears that the group is actually making investments in companies rather than just collecting fees. The significant investment made over the last eight months in three Iowa companies is very promising for the Iowa startup scene.

If you’re interested in learning more about the process for Plains Angels or becoming an investor, be sure to visit the Plains Angels Website.