FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Valerie Lockhart
Director of Communications, IgniteMN
[email protected]
(612) 709-5908
IgniteMN Announces Top 5 Finalists for the 2025 Ignite Cup
Entrepreneurs from Southeast Minnesota to Compete in Live Pitch Event on March 27, 2025
Red Wing, MN – IgniteMN and SMIF are excited to announce the Top 5 Finalists for the 10th Annual Ignite Cup, Southeast Minnesota’s premier entrepreneurial pitch competition. These outstanding startups have advanced through a rigorous selection process and will now compete in the final round on March 27, 2025, presenting their ventures live before a panel of esteemed judges.
From an initial pool of 38 applicants, the competition was narrowed to the Top 10 Semi-Finalists, who participated in an intensive pitch round, including a Q&A session with industry experts. After careful deliberation, five startups have been selected to advance to the final round:
2025 Ignite Cup Finalists:
- Cytotheryx – Advancing regenerative medicine with innovative liver cell technologies.
- Genograms – Modernizing family history and genetic health tracking with interactive tools.
- Grow with Flora – Empowering young girls through an AI-powered educational platform focused on personal health and well-being.
- Hope Technologies – Developing cutting-edge solutions to enhance patient experience in memory care treatment.
- Wren Writing – Revolutionizing digital publishing with an intuitive, writer-friendly platform.
Join Us for the Live Pitch Event!
The final 2025 Ignite Cup Pitch Competition will take place on March 27, 2025, at IgniteMN in Red Wing, MN. Each finalist will present a live pitch to a panel of experts. Winners will receive cash prizes, business resources, and a coveted spot in the MN Cup semi-finals—Minnesota’s largest statewide startup competition.
Register to attend and cheer on these incredible founders:
Reserve Your Spot Here
Why Attend?
- Support Local Entrepreneurs – Witness the next wave of innovation shaping Southeast Minnesota.
- Get Inspired – Hear bold, creative ideas across multiple industries.
- Expand Your Network – Connect with investors, business mentors, and industry leaders.
“As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Ignite Cup, we continue to be amazed by the talent and ingenuity of entrepreneurs in Southeast Minnesota,” said Tim Penny, President & CEO of SMIF. “This competition highlights the innovative spirit of our region and provides a critical launching pad for new businesses.”
What’s Next?
Leading up to the event, IgniteMN will spotlight each finalist, sharing their stories and business journeys with the community. Follow along on IgniteMN.org and on social media to learn more about these inspiring founders.
For press inquiries or interview requests, contact: [email protected]
