Launch MN Innovation Grants
Launch Minnesota Innovation Grants are targeted to the most promising innovative scalable technology businesses in Minnesota. Together, we’re working to help reduce the risk for Minnesota technology startups and entrepreneurs, who are solving problems and growing our state’s innovation ecosystem.
The 2023 Minnesota Legislature reauthorized the Launch Minnesota Grant program and funded it at $3 million; $1.5 million for each fiscal year (FY) 2024 and 2025.
Innovation Grants include:
- Business operations: These grants provide up to $35,000 for business operations, including research and development, direct business expenses and technical assistance. As of October 29, 2024 $447K funding is available.
- SBIR/STTR Matching Grant: These grants are for first time Phase I and Phase II awardees and are based on a sliding scale of their Federal award (up to $35,000 for Phase I awards and up to $50,000 for Phase II awards).
Increased consideration is given to startups located in Greater Minnesota, as well as businesses owned by women, veterans, and/or owners who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color).
Before applying, potential applicants should review the eligibility requirements outlined on the Grant Details and Application Portal.
The schedule to apply for grants for this fiscal year is as follows:
Business Operations Grant
| Application Period | Applicants Notified |
|---|---|
| June 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024 | August 30, 2024 |
| November 1, 2024 – November 29, 2024 | January 31, 2025 |
| April 1, 2025 – April 30, 2025 | June 30, 2025 |
SBIR/STTR Matching Grant*
| Application Period | Applicants Notified |
|---|---|
| April 15, 2024 – May 31, 2024 | July 15, 2024 |
| June 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024 | August 30, 2024 |
| July 1, 2024 – July 31, 2024 | September 20, 2024 |
| August 1, 2024 – August 31, 2024 | October 18, 2024 |
| September 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024 | November 15, 2024 |
*SBIR/STTR matching grants will be awarded on a first-come-first-serve basis.
