Minnesota startups now have a new source of state funding. Launch Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development's new statewide effort to accelerate startups, is taking applications for Innovation Grants.
Launch said in a release that these grants are designed to "advance the most promising, innovative and scalable technology startups in Minnesota."
"These grants will help jumpstart tech entrepreneurs who are solving problems and growing our state's innovation ecosystem," Launch Minnesota Executive Director Neela Mollgaard said in a statement. "Minnesota has a strong history of innovation, and we want more businesses to continue to start and grow here."
Launch's Innovation Grants are available in the following categories:
The organization added that it would provide special consideration for startups and small businesses in Greater Minnesota, as well as those started by women, veterans and people of color.
DEED announced the creation of Launch in August. The program is designed to foster innovation across the state with a special focus on businesses located outside the Twin Cities.
Launch Minnesota grew out of a collaboration between DEED and the Minnesota Legislature. It is a joint initiative with private businesses and nonprofit organizations statewide that provides financial incentives, training and grants to people starting businesses in technology sectors like aerospace, agriculture, nanotechnology and medical devices.
