MN Cup is an annual competition that reaches emerging entrepreneurs from across the state and connects them to tools, resources, and support to launch and accelerate the development of their new ventures. 3M has served as a sponsor of MN Cup since 2016, providing funding through 3Mgives.
The competition inspires entrepreneurs to begin their start-up journey, supports them as they develop a solid business plan, provides exposure for their ideas, and offers numerous opportunities to expand their networks. Hundreds of experienced entrepreneurs and advisors (including from 3M) volunteer their time to connect with the competitors through mentoring and judging.
MN Cup operations, programming, and prize money are completely funded by sponsorship dollars, foundation grants, and in-kind donations of services.
2019 MN Cup
Abilitech Medical garnered top honors in the 2019 MN Cup competition, securing a total of $105,000 as the grand prize winner, winner of the Life Science/Health IT Division, and the top woman-led team.
Abilitech Medical develops and markets assistive technology to help patients affected by multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, and spinal cord injuries regain their independence. Their suite of orthotic devices will support and assist the arms of patients as they perform everyday tasks.
Members of Abilitech Medical’s team were among the nearly 1,000 entrepreneurs across the state who applied to participate in the 2019 competition.
By the numbers, 2019 MN Cup participants
43% included women
43% included entrepreneurs of color
4% included veterans
Participants competed in one of nine divisions, which included one for undergraduate and graduate students and one for youth ages 18 and younger
“We’re grateful for 3M’s generosity of time and resources, and its commitment to innovation. By both giving back and paying it forward, 3M is making our entire entrepreneurial ecosystem stronger, and planting seeds for the next great innovations to come out of Minnesota.”
—Jessica Berg, MN Cup director
Photos courtesy of the Carlson School of Management