I can attest to this. It has been "open" since iOS 3.0, with the caveat that all iPhone accessory devices have to include the Apple-provided authentication chip.

I would talk to a local (ideally publicly-funded) technology incubator or small business development center. These organizations have a vested interest in seeing you take your concept to the next level, assuming that the business plan is sound. We work with TechColumbus (our local incubator) quite frequently as sources for development work. They will be the best source for lining up additional funding, talent and anything else you need.

I run a contract technology development firm (KappaStone) based in Columbus, Ohio. We work with start-ups and small companies all the time and I'd be happy to sit down and talk about your concept. Although the bulk of our work is done on a cash basis, we are willing to discuss alternative agreements on a case-by-case basis.

If you have any interest, visit our site at http://www.kappastone.com or give us a call at 800-706-4534.