Red Wing, MN — IgniteMN is proud to announce the addition of two new members to its Board of Directors, Steve Mercil and Anthony “Huck” Poss, both of whom bring deep expertise and strong ties to the Red Wing community as the organization enters a new chapter of focused, local impact.
As IgniteMN sharpens its mission and programming for 2026, the organization is recommitting to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in Red Wing and the surrounding communities through education, resources, and connections.
This renewed direction is anchored in two core program areas: Start Smart and Grow Boldly, designed to help founders launch new ventures and support existing businesses as they scale.
Welcoming Steve Mercil
Steve Mercil is widely recognized as one of the most prolific angel group founders in the nation. As Founder and CEO of RAIN Source Management, LLC, he has created over 50 seed- and early-stage investment funds across 16 states, mobilizing more than 600 accredited investors. These funds have invested over $40 million into more than 100 companies, helping generate over 4,500 jobs and catalyzing more than $1 billion in follow-on investment.
Mercil brings decades of experience in venture development, capital formation, and entrepreneurial ecosystems. His leadership at the national level, including serving as Chairman of the National Association of Seed and Venture Funds and Treasurer of the Angel Capital Association, adds significant depth to IgniteMN’s strategic growth and investment alignment.
Welcoming Anthony “Huck” Poss
Anthony “Huck” Poss represents the next generation of entrepreneurial leadership rooted in Red Wing. A local native, Poss first engaged with IgniteMN as a high school student through an app development workshop. He later became a partner in the Golden Triangle Fund, investing directly in startups emerging from the Ignite ecosystem.
Poss holds a Master’s degree in Business Analytics from the University of Denver and is currently focused on entrepreneurship and real estate. His journey, from student participant to investor and now board member, reflects the long-term impact IgniteMN strives to create in its community.
Positioning for the Future
“These additions to our Board reflect exactly where IgniteMN is headed,” said Jerry Olson, Board Chair. “We are combining deep national expertise with strong local roots to ensure that our work directly benefits entrepreneurs in Red Wing and surrounding communities.”
As IgniteMN continues to evolve, its focus remains clear:
- Deliver high-impact programming for local entrepreneurs
- Strengthen partnerships across the region
- Build a sustainable pipeline of business growth and leadership
The addition of Mercil and Poss reinforces IgniteMN’s commitment to aligning experience, investment, and community connection to drive meaningful economic impact.
About IgniteMN
IgniteMN supports entrepreneurs and business owners in starting and growing their businesses through education, resources, and connections, with a renewed focus on Red Wing and surrounding communities.
