The 2025 E1 Summit & Expo in Rochester brought together nearly 90 attendees from across Southeastern Minnesota for a full day of inspiration, connection, and collaboration. The day kicked off with a very real and down to earth keynote on audacity and building community by Tawonda Burks, followed by breakout sessions that explored innovation and lean startup management, while MN Women in Tech led a dynamic discussion on AI for product development and management. Attendees also heard the latest updates from NaturallyMN about new trends in the Food and Ag sector.
During the lunch time, seventeen regional and statewide resource partners tabled at the event, sharing tools and programs available to help startups and entrepreneurs thrive.
Thanks to Cub Foods West Rochester, guests enjoyed delicious breakfast and lunch options throughout the day. The event wrapped up with a lively raffle featuring a variety of prizes—including a Founder Getaway Basket complete with two bottles of wine, tumblers, a picnic blanket, and a gift certificate to Minnesota State Parks.
It was a wonderful day of learning, sharing, and celebrating the incredible entrepreneurial energy of our Entrepreneurs First – E1 Community!
