On October 1, we kicked off Launch Minnesota, a statewide collaborative effort to accelerate the growth of startups and amplify Minnesota as a national leader in innovation. I'm excited to share that we’re now accepting online applications for Launch Minnesota Innovation Grants, which target the most promising, innovative and scalable technology businesses in Minnesota. Together we’re working to support Minnesota technology startups and entrepreneurs, who are solving problems and growing our state’s innovation ecosystem.

Innovation Grants are available in the following categories:

• Business operations: Up to $35,000 for business operations, including research and development, direct business expenses and technical assistance.
• Housing or child care: Up to $7,500 for housing or child care expenses.
• SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) match: Up to $50,000 for businesses awarded a first-time federal Phase 2 SBIR and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) award.

Grant applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and those received by November 30, 2019 will be reviewed by the Launch Minnesota Advisory Board in December. Grantees will be announced in January. Applications received after November 30 will be reviewed on a regular basis in the following months.

Completed applications should be submitted to launchminnesota@state.mn.org with grant title noted in the email subject line. More detailed grant submission information is included on the application form for each grant. Launch Minnesota provides special consideration and social capital connectivity for startups and small businesses in Greater Minnesota as well as businesses started by women, veterans and people of color.

Check out launchminnesota.org to learn more. When you’re there, make sure to sign up for our newsletter for regular updates.

We look forward to hearing from you!

-Commissioner Steve Grove