Launch Minnesota Updates

Rob Cimperman Joins Launch MN as New Director

Last month the Department of Employment and Economic Development welcomed Rob Cimperman as the new Launch Minnesota Director.

Rob brings a passion for entrepreneurship and innovation to his role as Launch Minnesota Director. In this role he works to advance the innovation ecosystem in Minnesota by supporting the growth and acceleration of startups throughout the state.

Rob has served as an adjunct instructor at Augsburg University and the University of Wisconsin River Falls, supported the University of Minnesota Business Advisory Group, and volunteered at SCORE, a non-profit providing mentoring to small businesses. His industry experience includes leadership roles in strategy, M&A, business incubation and general management at 3M, Gemalto and Thales.

New Innovation Grant Recipients 

Launch MN and DEED have awarded $1.16 million in Launch Minnesota Innovation Grants to startups across the state.

The grants were awarded to 43 startups, 30 of which are led by entrepreneurs of color, veterans, women, persons with disabilities or startups located in Greater Minnesota. Launch Minnesota Innovation Grants target the most promising, innovative and scalable technology businesses in Minnesota by providing up to $35,000 for innovative startups.

Since its inception in 2019, Launch Minnesota has awarded $7.5 million in grant funding – accelerating the growth of startups and amplifying Minnesota as a national leader in innovation. Launch Minnesota will begin accepting applications for Innovation Grants again in January 2024.

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Organizations Receive Funds to Support Startups

Eight entrepreneurial support organizations received grants to become Launch Minnesota Network hub leaders – which, alongside more than 120 program partners, spearhead regional efforts to help entrepreneurs access available resources.

The Network is organized in a hub-and-spoke model that allows each region to customize its offerings while still enabling entrepreneurs to access statewide resources and best practices. Since its formation, the Launch Minnesota Network has made significant progress in supporting innovators across the state.

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BIPOC Startup Week - Dec. 7-9

BIPOC Startup Week aims to create a safe and dynamic space for BIPOC founders and entrepreneurs to discuss advancements and challenges. During the first annual BIPOC Startup Week, attendees will have the chance to learn about opportunities in a variety of different industries, including software, healthcare and creative entrepreneurship.  

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Watson Institute Fellowships Available 

Are you a sustainability leader or entrepreneur deeply committed to driving sustainable change and solutions to the most significant challenges in the Midwest region? The BMO Fellowship powered by Watson Institute is a fully funded 16-week intensive virtual fellowship from March to July 2024 that provides entrepreneurs and leaders with access to programming, networking, business education, a community of leaders, mentoring, and a potential venture development stipend.

If you are interested in learning more or applying, please contact casey@watson.is.

UMN Offers IP Legal Assistance

Friday Forum Archive

Upcoming Events

Dec. 7 – Clean Energy Economy MN – 2024 Legislative Preview

Dec. 7 – Holiday Happy Hour with Naturally Minnesota

Dec. 13 – Minority HUB Meeting with Engage Winona

Dec. 13 – Welcoming Wednesday

Find more events on Launch MN's Statewide Startup and Small Business Calendar.

Resources for Entrepreneurs:

• 5 Steps to Start Your Business in Minnesota
• Launch Minnesota’s Startup Resource Guide
• Guide to Incubators & Accelerators
• Friday Forums
• SciTech Internship Program
• List of Investors 
• Join the Minnesota Exchange
• Get to Know Launch Minnesota’s Innovation Grantees 
• Angel Tax Credit Program 
• Startup and Small Business Calendar