MN Cup Announces 2024 Division Winners, Grand Prize Winner to be Revealed at September 16 Finale

The MN Cup, the nation’s largest statewide startup competition, is celebrating its 20th annual season with a thrilling announcement. Nine emerging companies have emerged victorious in their respective divisions, securing cash awards and a shot at the coveted $50,000 grand prize.

These division winners were chosen from an initial pool of nearly 3,200 entrepreneurs across Minnesota. Each division winner receives $25,000 in non-dilutive cash prizes, providing valuable support for their ventures. Additionally, the Youth division awards a total prize of $20,000 to the top three finalist companies.

The excitement will reach its peak at the Grand Finale event on Monday, September 16, from 4-7 PM at the McNamara Alumni Center on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus. This is where the 20th annual season’s Grand Prize Winner, along with other special award recipients, will be unveiled. To be a part of this momentous occasion, click here.

Here are the 2024 MN Cup Division Winners:

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ENERGY, CLEAN TECH & WATER:

Revitri
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EDUCATION & TRAINING:

Talknician
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FOOD, AGRICULTURE & BEVERAGE:

Loon Liquor
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GENERAL:

Momease Solutions
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HIGH TECH:

Mozrt
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IMPACT VENTURES:

Nashke Native Games
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LIFE SCIENCE & HEALTH IT:

Heart Failure Solutions
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STUDENT:

Alure
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YOUTH:

SignalGrab

This year saw a record-breaking number of unique business plans submitted, representing a 10% increase from the previous year. The participation also reflects MN Cup’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity, with 43% of applicants being Women-led, 39% being BIPOC-led, and 31% representing companies from Greater Minnesota.

The MN Cup is a free, annual competition dedicated to identifying, supporting, and connecting early-stage ventures across Minnesota. Since its inception in 2005, MN Cup has nurtured over 26,000 entrepreneurs and awarded over $5.4 million in non-dilutive cash prizes to Minnesota-based startups, which have collectively raised over $1.1 billion.

MN Cup is a collaborative effort, fueled by a public-private partnership that brings together corporations, investors, foundations, government agencies, and skilled volunteers to champion Minnesota’s entrepreneurial spirit. The MN Cup program is a part of the Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management.

For more information, visit mncup.org.