One of Minnesota's oldest and most well-established technology organizations has rebranded, changing its name and unveiling a new logo to support the revamp.
Minnesota High Tech Association said Wednesday that it is now the Minnesota Technology Association, shortened to MnTech. The group said its rebrand better reflects the state's expanding tech ecosystem.
"Our new name more appropriately recognizes that we serve all kinds of organizations, from those developing cutting edge products to those using enabling technologies to fuel their business success," CEO Jeff Tollefson said in a statement.
MnTech supports tech companies in a broad range of industries, including life sciences, fintech, agtech, edtech and advanced manufacturing.
For more than three decades, MnTech has been known for its public policy work on behalf of the tech sector and for hosting popular events such as the Tekne Awards. Tollefson added that the organization will take advantage of the rebrand to start new initiatives surrounding advocacy, talent and community.
Talent, he added, is especially important to MnTech. The organization hopes to cultivate new talent in the region and create opportunities for professionals already in the field to engage in the scene.
"The war for talent in the tech sector will only intensify, which is why addressing this issue is such a strategic [initiative] for MnTech and the companies we serve," Tollefson said. "We need to think differently about how we inspire our next generation to pursue STEM careers, how we engage historically overlooked sources of talent, how we attract new talent to Minnesota and how we develop and retain skilled talent once on board."
MnTech is developing peer forums to connect professionals in industries such as artificial intelligence, manufacturing and social impact. It is also creating several new types of events.
"Our engagement efforts prioritize networking and building meaningful relationships, collaborating across positions and companies, learning about technology and topics relevant to our ecosystem, and having fun while doing so," said Jade Denson, MnTech's director of community engagement.
