Forge North

Alivia Boddie and MEDA - Metropolitan Economic Development Association are helping get the word out about the MSP Startup Guide (https://lnkd.in/gJzrXUsk), and connecting founders with experienced mentors along the way. Come join us next Thursday for the Volunteer Advisor Network!

VC-backed founders: this is normal. As we head towards the end of the year, I'm having a lot of conversations with founders about "when will VC pop back". They want to know when fundraising will get easier, especially outside of AI companies. They want to peer into the future and find that magic date when all of this sluggishness will fade. But it won't - because now is normal. So far in 2024, US companies on Carta have collectively raised about $21 billion per quarter. Last year it was $18B. In 2020 it was $22B. In relation to 2021's $55 billion, sure things seem dire. But that comparison point is screwing with our collective mental models. If we just wave a wand and erase our most recent bubble behavior (6 wild quarters), the mood around venture would change. Yes, we would expect to see some gradual growth over time (as the market expands both on and off Carta). And yes, the gap between the upper range and the median for these companies is as large as ever. This feels hard because it is hard! And because the quality of the founders on either side of you has never been higher. It's like swimming in a pool of Olympic swimmers - even great founders can feel lesser than. Optimistic about 2025, but we are in the new normal now and it's unlikely to shift dramatically. Time to build! #startups #founders #venturecapital #fundraising If you want to dive into more predictions about the state of startups in 2025, join our virtual event on Thursday at 10am PT: https://lnkd.in/gWcaCVVf And for our US audience - go vote! 🙏

Minnesota innovators - Launch MN Grants are open for application. Maybe the highest return on time invested grants out there. More here:

Walleye Tank is an excellent opportunity for healthcare founders to gain experience pitching and visibility to VCs and industry experts. Applications are open through tomorrow night - don't wait to apply! https://lnkd.in/gzZhdnn9

Congratulations, Katie Kalkman!

We’re recruiting for the role of Managing Director, MedTech. Minnesota MedTech 3.0 (MMT3.0) is a cross-sector hub to grow Minnesota’s global leadership in MedTech innovation. This role will play a central role in the implementation of the MMT3.0 strategy as the regional innovation officer driving cross-sector collaboration to grow Minnesota’s leadership in medical technology innovation. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned leader and recognized medical technology expert with deep cross-functional leadership experience, a strong track-record of standing up and operationalizing new, complex enterprises, a proven history of delivering on commitments and achieving demonstrated impact, deep commitment to Minnesota, and a passion for advancing equity and inclusion. Apply now and/or share with your networks. https://lnkd.in/gvErxKG7

🗓️ Save the date! Thursday, November 14th, 6:30pm for our next EmpowerHER event. Details to come…

Incredible growth for a Minnesota-based startup blending innovation and impact!

I enjoyed chatting with Erin Wall at Lunr Capital & Maggie Abeles at NewBound VC, two Midwest-based consumer investors, to learn more about their careers in financing capital for consumer companies and what sectors they are most excited about. Highly recommend following both to stay updated with the consumer ecosystem in the Midwest! In this month's piece, I dive into four sectors within consumer that investors are putting their money: 1. health & wellness: clean protein & brain health 🧠 2. beauty: all-in-one products & biotech-formulated skincare💄 3. sports & esports: online experiences & building products for women ⚽️ 4. pet care: pet health & insurance🐶 Click below to read the full piece. https://lnkd.in/gserYtZB

One week left to apply for Startup Showcase! Up to 10 companies will be selected to pitch to an audience of startup investors. Apply today by emailing your pitch deck to launchminnesota@state.mn.us. https://lnkd.in/gwVcdNbf