On Thursday night, Minne Inno hosted its inaugural Inno U Challenge, a pitch competition and showcase for the region's student entrepreneurs. With a little over a hundred people in the room, WeWork’s new space was the perfect fit as we kicked off the night with a fireside chat with Homi founder Philip Xiao and director of growth Aamir Peeran.
Following the chat, eight startups from Carleton, UofM, Macalester, and MSU shared their startups – from a Korean style dining chain to on demand sick relief kits for college kids – the event was a reflection of the Twin Cities diverse and wide-ranging entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The 8 startups had 3-minutes each to present their businesses and vision to the audience. Everyone in the audience was given an ‘Inno Buck’ to invest in their favorite presentation. And the ‘most funded’ startup from last night was….
Kimchili Eatery A Minnesota-based fast-casual eatery serving healthy, customizable, traditional Korean meal.
The other amazing presenting startups were:
Contented Cow Creamery – Carleton College Produces a locally-sourced ice cream.
Travel Young – U of M An adventure travel service for the millennial traveler.
FUNL – Macalester College A social media hookup app designed to interact with a users night life while offering and implementing safety features.
Quick Care – Macalester College A startup creating an illness care package on-demand delivery company.
FitPoints – U of M FitPoints is an app concept that rewards college students for exercising. When users spend time at their University gym, they generate points which can be redeemed for coupons to their favorite restaurants, clothing brands, and products.
Sotaberries – U of M Large-scale indoor hydroponics providing year-round premium berries in MN.
Under Recruited Preps – Minnesota State University Mankato A leading athletic recruiting network, UnderRecruited Preps connects student-athletes to college coaches and teaches them about the athletic recruiting process.
Big thanks to all those that participated, attended and helped make the night a success.
Thank you to our event sponsor!
