Programs

Participants apply the Lean LaunchPad methodology to learn how to translate their science and technology innovations to real-life products and services. Five modules: intro, product-market fit, customer discovery, pathway to commercialization, and market assessment. 

• Science and Engineering VPD - a compressed, localized version of the regional Jumpstart course.  For academics exploring the commercial potential of specific innovations emerging from their research.  Entails outreach for stakeholder interviews. Successful completion can qualify academic teams for the NSF I-Corps Teams program ($50,000 grant). 
• Launch MN VPD Certificate Course - for business people across the State of Minnesota taking the early steps to build fundable, high-growth businesses based on specific innovations. Provides the groundwork for an SBIR or Launch MN grant application, as well as investor due diligence.
• Launch MN VPD Webinar - for business people and academics seeking an overview of the Lean LaunchPad approach; no specific innovation or homework is required.

The Great Lakes I-Corps Hub Jumpstart Technology Commercialization online workshops help researchers explore the commercial viability of STEM-based innovation ideas. Each course includes 5 biweekly sessions: Course Orientation, Product-Market Fit, Customer Discovery, Market Assessment, Commercialization Pathway. In between the formal course sessions, participants conduct 20-30 customer discovery interviews, complete online learning assignments, apply the tools to their own tech, and receive feedback and coaching from experienced instructors/mentors.  Successful completion of a Jumpstart course can qualtify academic teams for nomination to the NSF I-Corps Teams program, which includes a $50,000 grant.

The Innovation to Impact Summer Fellowship Program immerses undergraduate students in the dynamic world of startups. Over the course of 8 weeks, student teams will be matched with startups, providing hands-on experience in the innovation process. Participants will work closely with startup founders and teams, contributing to real projects and gaining insights into product development, market research, and business strategy. Through workshops, mentorship, and collaborative projects, students will develop critical skills in creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship, preparing them for potential future careers in the innovation ecosystem. 

This 2-credit course uses the Lean LaunchPad structured process to learn the initial process of customer development by testing market acceptance of a specific new business concept. Students (both undergrad and graduate level) from across the University of Minnesota are welcome to enroll as long as they have a specific idea or technology that they are interested in pursuing. The goal of the course is to teach the process to quickly and efficiently test the value and market fit for a new concept.  This in-person class meets each fall and spring on Tuesday afternoons at 3:45.

Short sessions to learn about what it takes to commercialize inventions and/or launch technology/science-driven ventures. Click on the dates for registration info.

An MVP or “Minimum Viable Product” is a tool to show customers and key stakeholders how your innovative idea could work, capture feedback, and bring your concept one step closer to reality. Each year, the MVP Challenge awards up to 25 grants from $100 to $3,000 in three divisions: Social, Physical, and Digital.  This program is available to University of Minnesota students, faculty, and staff.

Applications due Fall 2025.

Founders Day presentations are May 14, 2025.

Tailored and targeted lunch-time sessions on science/technology innovation commercialization and entrepreneurship for academic departments, student clubs, affinity groups, research centers and professional development programs. 

To request a customized program for your group, contact Ashley Mahoney at [email protected]

University researchers want to bring their breakthrough innovations to market, but lack business expertise. Business-savvy grad students at the Carlson School of Management are seeking meaningful entrepreneurial experiences. Let's combine these talents to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact.  MBA/MS Carlson grad students hear pitches from University Minnesota scientists each November, then work to advance the business side of scientific innovations during the spring semester.

Next event: Fall 2025

MIN-Corps is proud to partner with the state of Minnesota to provide an online entrepreneurial education platform for Launch MN, a statewide collaborative effort to accelerate the growth of startups and amplify Minnesota as a national leader in innovation.

Organized by the Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship in the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota, this site shares information to connect with courses, competitions, seminars, mentors and connections to the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem to early-stage technology entrepreneurs across the entire State.