Minnesota Innovation Grants

The 2023 Minnesota Legislature reauthorized the Launch Minnesota Grant Program and funded it at $1.5 million for each fiscal year (FY) 2024 and 2025. Launch Minnesota Innovation Grants target the most promising, innovative businesses and technologies in Minnesota. Together, we’re working to support Minnesota startups and entrepreneurs who are solving problems and growing our state’s innovation ecosystem. The Innovation Grant reimburses business expenses incurred in Minnesota for research and development, direct business expenses (including wages of employees but not salaries or wages of 20% or more owners of the business or their family members), and the purchase of technical assistance and services. Qualifying businesses may receive grants up to $35,000, which are disbursed on a 2:1 reimbursement basis (grantee spends $2, then gets reimbursed $1). Eligibility Criteria: • The primary business activity is innovative technology or an innovative business model or product. • Business operations and headquarters are located in Minnesota. • The business has not been in operation for more than 10 years. • The business has raised less than $1 million in equity financing. • The business has not previously received a Launch Minnesota Innovation Grant.