Changes for Launch Minnesota
During the last legislative session, Launch Minnesota did not receive funding. But DEED, and especially the Office of Small Business and Innovation, are still pursuing the broader goals of Launch Minnesota – to support innovative startups and the state’s innovation ecosystem.
Minnesota’s startup ecosystem remains a key driver of economic growth. We are committed to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship statewide by connecting and convening founders, investors, corporate innovators and higher education institutions to cultivate a thriving business landscape.
Please reach out to launchminnesota@state.mn.us or visit launchmn.org for more details.
Explore Entrepreneurship in Your County
Explore the state of entrepreneurship in Minnesota with our newly created Minnesota County Entrepreneurship Index. This interactive tool provides key county data across economic indicators of innovation, equity, and vibrancy. Whether you’re a support organization or entrepreneur, this dashboard offers valuable insights to inform decisions and drive local entrepreneurship growth.
Learn more
Your Input is Needed - Small Business Survey
Small business owners play a vital role in Minnesota’s economy, and your input helps ensure support programs meet your needs. DEED is gathering feedback through a short survey. Your responses will help inform future resources and initiatives for DEED and our partners throughout the state.
Share your perspective
MN Small Business Call - Succession Planning
Don’t miss the next Small Business Call hosted by our office on Tuesday, August 13 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Next month, we’re talking business succession planning – a critical but often overlooked part of long-term success.
Sign up for reminders and join the call
DEED Workforce Training
Is your business looking to upskill employees or train new hires? DEED offers workforce training grants through the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership (MJSP) to cover training costs. From large partnership grants with educational institutions to targeted support for small manufacturers adopting automation, there are several options available – some offering up to $400,000.
Learn more
SmartMN Think Tank - August 12
Twin Cities Business Magazine invites community members to attend its SmartMN Think Tank, an event where startups receive real-time advice from a panel of experts. TCB readers selected the following four companies to present at Think Tank:
Learn more and register
Vote for the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota
The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual bracket-style competition to determine the “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota.” Think your company’s product could win? Nominations close August 15. The first bracket will be announced September 2.
Learn more
New Legal Help for Minnesota Nonprofits
The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits (MCN) and LegalCORPS have launched a new initiative to provide no-cost legal services to all Minnesota nonprofits. This effort responds to the growing demand for legal support amid shifting state and federal policies. Nonprofits can now access expert guidance on compliance, governance and other critical legal matters.
Learn more
Upcoming Events
Find more events on Launch MN's Statewide Startup and Small Business Calendar.
Resources for Entrepreneurs:
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