High Tech Division

The High Tech division of the Minnesota Cup seeks out, supports, and celebrates Minnesota's technology-based economy. We are seeking entries in software and hardware (Web-based software, Web 2.0, etc.), networking, communications and wireless equipment and products. We also are looking for submissions in the innovative development and/or delivery of technology services, including consulting services, service providers and software as a service.

Awards and Benefits Include:

High Tech Division Winner:

• $25,000 in seed capital
• Premium access to the Minnesota Angel Network
• Business organization (or services of similar value) from the law firm of Gray Plant Mooty
• Accounting assistance from Lurie Besikof Lapidus & Company, LLP
• Scholarship to The Collaborative’s Annual Minnesota Venture & Finance Conference
• Automatic acceptance into Project Skyway's highly selective Spring '12 bootcamp, part of the selection process for MN's first tech accelerator
• Video production and 3 months of hosting via Startupshoppe's Minnesota Startup Showcase

High Tech Division Runner-up:

• $5,000 in seed capital

All finalists:

• Featured in a supplement that is included in the December issue of Twin Cities Business magazine.
• Division Finalist Training - "Winning Investment Presentations" by Spoken Impact.
• Detailed feedback of their final written entry and oral presentation.
• The opportunity to present their plan to a review board of esteemed business leaders.

All semi-finalists:

• An invitation to attend a semi-finalist reception at the Carlson School of Management.
• The opportunity to be paired with a University of Minnesota alumni mentor with extensive entrepreneurial experience.

All entrants:

• Opportunity to learn about resources available to entrepreneurs and attend events organized/promoted by the Minnesota Cup.
• Networking with Minnesota Cup supporting partners and other entrepreneurs.
• A chance to improve the entrepreneur’s pitch given the required elements of the initial entry, which also represent a basic outline for a business plan.
• One year, complimentary subscription to Twin Cities Business.
• A valuable experience that will help all entrants as they work on their ventures.