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Ignite

Ideas | Passions | Connections

Ignite was Incredible!

The building is still buzzing from the vibes and excitement of 2023 Ignite event where we brought together ideas, passions, and connections of the diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem of the Twin Cities.

Special thanks to our Host Committee: Dr. Chris Brooks, Shelisa Demuth, Jesse Ross, and Dario Otero

JA North Ignite 2023 Highlight Video
Let's Hear it for Students!

We're so proud of all their hard work! It was a memorable learning experience for JA North students. The attendees that came and shared encouragement, advice, and investment is going to have an immediate impact. We're thrilled to share that together, we raised $4,600 to support Junior Achievement North students. All of the JA Company Program student entrepreneurs receive seed funding, and our top winners will receive an extra bonus.

The Student Votes are In! Here are the Results:

First Place: Arenea - High School for Recording Arts

  • A youth job training center that focuses on media occupations development serving historically marginalized communities.

Second Place: Gratzi - Mounds View High School

  • A gratitude journaling app that allows users to revisit their happy moments to recognize positivity and combat mental health issues.

Third Place: Relataspace - Mounds View High School

  • Bringing people together and strengthening connections through relatable situations.

Fourth Place (Tie): EARTHA - Mounds View High School

  • Elevate your style with conscious luxury – ethically sourced, handcrafted jewelry that fuses impeccable design with a commitment to sustainability.

Fourth Place (Tie): Plantrify - Mounds View High School

  • Addressing mental health issues among teenagers by teaching them how to manage their daily lives as they transition into a more independent lifestyle.

Fifth Place: Savor and Save - New Century School

  • Developing a recipe and cooking app.

A snapshot of our December Ignite event

Thank you to our sponsors!

Inspiring

Empowering

Thank you to our Collaborating Sponsor: UnitedHealth Group

  • WEM Foundation
  • Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation
  • Fred C. & Katherine B. Andersen Foundation
  • Leonette M. & Fred T. Lanners Foundation
  • Best Buy, Inc.
  • PNC Financial Services Group
  • Belton Family Foundation

Where it all started!

Last February, we hosted our first ever Ignite event to cultivate relationships, elevate black and brown voices, and celebrate our region’s founders and innovators. Take a look at some of the event photos!