Launch Minnesota: Help Us Grow Minnesota's Startup Ecosystem

One of the most exciting outcomes of the 2019 Legislative session for DEED was the creation of a new program called Launch Minnesota. Designed to nurture technology startups and entrepreneurs across the state, Launch Minnesota will work with private industry to create financial incentives and programming to demonstrate that Minnesota is committed to fostering an innovation ecosystem that draws global attention.

“Entrepreneurs are the future of Minnesota’s innovation economy,” said DEED Commissioner Steve Grove. “We need to play an active role in helping make this state a great place to foster new technologies and ideas so that maybe the next Google or Apple could come from Minnesota.”

Launch Minnesota will provide financial incentives, training, and grants to people starting companies in technology sectors such as aerospace, agricultural processing, nanotechnology and medical devices.

DEED is accepting applications for an Executive Director to run Launch Minnesota. Applications are due by Wednesday, July 10, 2019.

As part of Launch Minnesota, DEED is also forming an advisory board of technology leaders from across the state to provide direction and support for the new program. The board will include representatives from the private sector, higher education, and government in Greater Minnesota and the Twin Cities metro area.

The board will advise on the activities and strategies of Launch Minnesota and make recommendations to DEED on applications from entrepreneurs and small businesses for financial assistance to spur growth in the innovation sector.