--- title: "BETA Explore Recap: Resources for Underrepresented Founders" description: Learn about national and statewide resources for historically underrepresented founders, from grants to education, here. image: https://blog.beta.mn/hubfs/Beta%20EXPLORE%20recap%20blog%20banner%20(APRIL)21_Blog%20Banner.png --- Close - Programs - [Twin Cities Startup Week](https://www.tcstartupweek.com/) - [Accelerator](https://www.beta.mn/join-a-cohort) - [Showcase](https://www.beta.mn/programs-showcase) - [Portfolio](https://www.beta.mn/portfolio) - [Partners](https://www.beta.mn/our-partners) - [Get Involved](https://www.beta.mn/how-to-help) - [Donate Now](https://donate.stripe.com/4gw9CLfHN5GN0RW144) [![Primary\_DkGray-Orange](https://blog.beta.mn/hs-fs/hubfs/Beta%20Logos/Primary_DkGray-Orange.png?width=200&height=50&name=Primary_DkGray-Orange.png)](https://blog.beta.mn/) [![BETA Logo-1](https://blog.beta.mn/hs-fs/hubfs/BETA%20Logo-1.png?width=200&height=50&name=BETA%20Logo-1.png)](https://blog.beta.mn/) - Programs - [Twin Cities Startup Week](https://www.tcstartupweek.com/) - [Accelerator](https://www.beta.mn/join-a-cohort) - [Showcase](https://www.beta.mn/programs-showcase) - [Portfolio](https://www.beta.mn/portfolio) - [Partners](https://www.beta.mn/our-partners) - [Get Involved](https://www.beta.mn/how-to-help) - [Donate Now](https://donate.stripe.com/4gw9CLfHN5GN0RW144) [Laura Beier](https://blog.beta.mn/author/laura-beier) Apr 23, 2021, 10:21:18 AM 14 min read # BETA Explore Recap: Resources for Underrepresented Founders [Previous Post](https://blog.beta.mn/mn-startups-to-support-that-are-fighting-systemic-racism) [Next Post](https://blog.beta.mn/beta-alum-betteryou-helps-you-spend-time-on-what-matters) We had a wonderful BETA Explore session on April 22 covering statewide and national resources for historically underrepresented founders!  A huge thank you goes out to J.P. Morgan Chase Commercial Bank, and MN DEED for making it happen. Thank you also to our speakers for a wonderful discussion! - [Neela Mollgaard](https://iw.t.hubspotemail.net/e2t/tc/MW2lH6cfbRXW3MqgMl56CNVQW4WpcsS4qDsB-N8tN9CD3p_97V1-WJV7CgCJ9W4Xpspv180MyLW3bdLTB4Cb8t_W88z8WF1YdRmhW7-Q0sh240L8sW68W3-H1yDyvcF3bBSy4GL68W31XTxw6jh9kYW670X2R6-9vHMW5qtFB83WMRQRW6zLJ204-mzMfW5z0Qks8JhZnmW6Bs2HB8clJgnW96THnp6Q4xqvW6b0kR26q1c_NW6ng6zz7hYdsyW15kgrC8bhqN2TQZyB3lf53CW1n4zy21yGXJ5W6DQ7Z92pM8qxW3RCv_L1BcZZSW4qsxSy409pcFVxWV9M39TCpJW1-svtF4_-xrkW5n6-PJ4Qmv3q38Rf1) from [Launch MN](https://mn.gov/launchmn/?utm_campaign=BETA%20Explore%202021&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=122422327&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--LXv12YGuy_W673J-5tS8fHkGZgeyBO66GoWSg4qqPIun7UL4j5c7qmTy-2di1JR14-pFxBD3pSa-TsliDxJ7UNbHrtA&utm_content=122422327&utm_source=hs_email)  - [Leyonna Barba](https://iw.t.hubspotemail.net/e2t/tc/MW2lH6cfbRXW3MqgMl56CNVQW4WpcsS4qDsB-N8tN9Ck3p_8SV1-WJV7CgGt7W34hGxx2DRrdZW7GnZ8g1WRD32W4qVYc13mVG3zW4dFxqY1-8RFTV-Wr-g7yCYR3W3gsWVN2blr6kW515NP58vrDzMW2nX7yR3Dp5bSN1P1LTSDbKg4N3VMx3D3123pW2XTJS28hPZbCW5_vCkb2qdcRbW8VprxD3DJ4L8Vd6zy74p-yS4VFc_005g6pwFW8MV35H3RQ0vBW1mLPX46QlKk0W5TYh9H5pq-dnW4NHh_Q2SxXm-W73dt8f8gbNc-W5WyGQY9hMc7SW5-KYF68PNm0h3cvv1) from [J.P. Morgan Chase Commercial Bank](https://iw.t.hubspotemail.net/e2t/tc/MW2lH6cfbRXW3MqgMl56CNVQW4WpcsS4qDsB-N8tN9CX3p_9rV1-WJV7Cg-LXW6rkbYQ3S0cB2W3pTjZJ9kKm6tW2RnW-l5P_FMmW4S9F7J50FXQJN8Ttkk1mXKhYW2d2bSY973XgQW4fltqv6nTHKbW7l2gvw8C7ZMsW4l3M1p5ccjS0W6cph1C6WpfWQW2fpj5-5Q4nJGW1z7Td36b-cMLW1XX85t5vpQrrVkSTB5603GSsW3nw4cQ471P4qW5WDbvx4XxRSKW6kW0rZ4CL4RwW5ynVx64JkHclW44Y1lY8Vc6V5W2PSq3Y2Q97zwW4kDnYF5csN0rW5T2s0l7fNGZgW30xGS76_4TdlVzK6gB45vNrpW2QXG8r2WqpvDW8Zg5gj5WFCs_33KH1) - [Monique Little](https://iw.t.hubspotemail.net/e2t/tc/MW2lH6cfbRXW3MqgMl56CNVQW4WpcsS4qDsB-N8tN9CD3p_97V1-WJV7CgV4hN7gzqQ4GjLSWW2b9CsW5yD2wCW3c9C7F6KK-4VVX-vcc5T2JBgW4Mpm3G8Jh4m2VTrf-W8PNC31W7zQ0q32n9hHjW2m9bjr8mS11KW7JxgSN2Z8cpGW6NNv4D7Hyj6DW8S5mY57bqCcKN7905Nt3-LQxW6JfBfr5JWN_6W8JWS3R5ZK-S-W1fQK4v8h5dbVW5X-9Ct4mFWyYW2tzl248-YG5kW1Mgj3P13v_LxW4bpglB1M4gnrW8zXYj39gdM97W2XlrBk3cBN7FW2L2cjb2Lqbw_W71N9qW5XfjRZW2xbK3W3fwYJC3mKV1) from [You Go Natural](https://iw.t.hubspotemail.net/e2t/tc/MW2lH6cfbRXW3MqgMl56CNVQW4WpcsS4qDsB-N8tN9C13p_8yV1-WJV7CgLRNN1CL6cfwMjn1W49_7np48tSR1W9glQt432w9GwW7LYv3z29PRwVN9cGGyJ1sV-qW1NydxF3VDRGrW3tDjl31vkWhcW3zLC2h7lCCZpN7VbpTVSgTPNW8FC62z4Q_ydVW5hky5h38v9hTW3jty9k8Hs7-8W211mzc69NwgFW1kljW68zK1nVW87Gd_n4N3sLxW50_qYg1VnkC7W6l8fm85Nh-L_W3Cwl-G9kX2mtW8YjKgK9bKXV4W4ddJ8J1sb--Q32dt1) - BETA alum [Natasha Gaffer](https://iw.t.hubspotemail.net/e2t/tc/MW2lH6cfbRXW3MqgMl56CNVQW4WpcsS4qDsB-N8tN9CD3p_97V1-WJV7CgMTMW2TCsX05QwQN0W3-qgpY8NSN9VW6DvWDQ7S3hP3W5qJYxT196S6PW2smWbg1xjwCcW3-fMrb5W0H5QW1FFH535g2YFTW5F-K_M8Y6Rd6W6rVw7Z8vVprSW6VsXLw7fHL-0W7QPv1v8BbCp4VYZr4-6HBmCGW1Yvpqq48L3PfW1Gq0yr3cgkqDN4nRcFrSb4wmW48l1629m2QmRN6bM6wy1FB8RW4Wh_XY1lFRD5W5rmL6c8JGNZbW6PTJZK9jy_nKW6hHT-6292Jp2W9dP8-x8q-wkbW8ZcCzW96Cf45W6tGKpG2sM2563lj_1) from [Forever War](https://iw.t.hubspotemail.net/e2t/tc/MW2lH6cfbRXW3MqgMl56CNVQW4WpcsS4qDsB-N8tN9C13p_8yV1-WJV7CgVYnVMLG0l5fK8KTVJZLvS5sjWmrW51Zj8l4X2whgW2Jwgrd5VLTqMW6FYpZV1CH4lwW2FSXkl14yczFW2_Y0G86P2mg8W829Zb-4KFJKGW67bxlX2j2L1HW7r2HRX6JJw57W6R2zyB2-9ZqKW8y8fCg6VmzpYN69LyJx7DCjvW1hxQ4m56Y6lnW3_nrw5376Qj_W3F-nmx31tFV4MbHpzDS0hGDW8k8YxS995mp8W77CYyj5hzqRrW4wgkfb85-yTj3fX11)e Below are all resources mentioned in the session, along with commentary from our speakers.   **Minnesota Resources** - [Launch MN](https://mn.gov/launchmn) Launch MN’s goal is to grow a thriving statewide ecosystem in Minnesota. The organization does this by increasing access to capital, creating friendly environments for startup founders, and increasing entrepreneurial expertise.  The following are ways founders can apply for funding, learn more about starting a business, and get connected to local investors.    - [Innovation grants](https://mn.gov/launchmn/capital/launch-grants/index.jsp) Launch MN Innovation Grants are targeted to the most promising innovative scalable technology businesses in Minnesota. This year, the organization allocated $3.2 million to high tech startups across the state — 60 percent of this to targeted founders such as BIPOC, women, veterans, or startups in Greater MN. While all grants have been allocated thus far, the organization hopes to get more funding by July 2021.   - [Tax credits](https://mn.gov/launchmn/capital/angel-tax/index.jsp) Tax credits are mainly an incentive to investors, but it’s a ripple effect that ends up assisting high tech startups in attracting high equity capital. Launch MN allocated $10 million total in tax credits for 2021, $5 million of which is for targeted populations. $4 million is remaining for these populations — learn more [here!](https://mn.gov/launchmn/capital/angel-tax/index.jsp)    - [Loans](https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans) The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) provides funding to nonprofit partners to make loans for MN startups. A few examples include the [Emerging Entrepreneur Loan](https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/elp/) program, which targets small businesses owned by BIPOC, women, and veteran founders, and the [Veteran Business Loan Program.](https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/reservists/)   - [Private investors](https://mn.gov/launchmn/capital/investors/index.jsp) Launch MN has a comprehensive list of private investors in Minnesota that you can search and filter by vertical, funding stage, and location.   - Competitions  Minnesota has a ton of resources when it comes to competitions. This is a great way to gain visibility as a young company, and maybe even earn a few bucks. Here’s just a few that were mentioned on the call: - [Big Ideas Challenge](https://cob.mnsu.edu/center-for-innovation-and-entrepreneurship/about/big-ideas-challenge/) - [E1 Ignite Cup](https://www.redwingignite.org/events/e1-ignite-cup) - [MNCup](https://carlsonschool.umn.edu/mn-cup) - [MEDA Million Dollar Challenge](https://meda.net/programs-initiatives/million-dollar-challenge/)   - [Crowdfunding](https://mn.gov/launchmn/capital/crowdfunding/index.jsp) These are a few good crowdfunding options for startups in Minnesota.   - [In-Kind Value](https://mn.gov/launchmn/community/network/index.jsp) Launch MN also provides education, mentoring, and more via 8 hubs across the state with 80 program partners. All organizations are working together to start and scale businesses. An example of this is the [Value Proposition](https://mn.gov/launchmn/connect/lean/index.jsp) training. Learn more about the Launch MN network (that includes BETA!) [here. ](https://mn.gov/launchmn/community/network/index.jsp)   **National Resources** - [Advancing Black Entrepreneurs](https://www.jpmorganchase.com/impact/people/advancing-black-pathways/advancing-black-entrepreneurs) - J. P. Morgan Chase - [Women on the Move](https://www.jpmorganchase.com/impact/people/women-on-the-move)- J.P. Morgan Chase   **Advice from the Speakers ** - Get to know your local bank! “Your bank, especially those in the community, are going to know what programs can help you” —[Leyonna Barba](https://www.linkedin.com/in/leyonnabarba/?utm_campaign=BETA%20Explore%202021&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=122422327&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8f0aq79rQ_WmnuoNrKvTcpSQVEzh8S8fFZlYAI0uw4GXqQQ27IYZe736znvVROXlB-ogjVEVy3Ha1ugbRjQIKhP0tfUA&utm_content=122422327&utm_source=hs_email), [J.P. Morgan Chase Commercial Bank](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/jpmorgan-chase-commercial-banking/?utm_campaign=BETA%20Explore%202021&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=122422327&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9EUc5gnW8xjmGui_pM6e-0lLL7HXlgtb7AVUungrh9Xhtk1AeWnEtwgKyokjyY97n04dN8N6QqpGwOFGOOMrcHJNJP2w&utm_content=122422327&utm_source=hs_email)   - “Don’t take less than you know you’re worth!” Just because we’re in the Midwest, doesn’t mean you have to accept a smaller investment if you know you can get more. —[Monique Little](https://www.linkedin.com/in/monique-little-3743241ba/?utm_campaign=BETA%20Explore%202021&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=122422327&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9geg-m_vQDi_zt9vOQHlh93bDUVX4O6mgPXCX8hIwa9RVMbtxNKu793TDXeucLwycDAUpImqhRuxgHmqRK__v8v4L0ZQ&utm_content=122422327&utm_source=hs_email), [You Go Natural ](https://yougonatural.com/?utm_campaign=BETA%20Explore%202021&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=122422327&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8rvmNFZZldEbUjJEjGi_pTftvwQXKXmOyqpJf6-xnHPS-4e7mguCK7w2R1EdHY1X2WsXuBX3lLkAyybq5JrF432rYJZQ&utm_content=122422327&utm_source=hs_email)   - “Sign up for newsletters and go to webinars while everything is virtual. Start a conversation in the chat, and get yourself out there” — [Natasha Gaffer](https://www.linkedin.com/in/natashagaffer/?utm_campaign=BETA%20Explore%202021&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=122422327&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_zSVAl3h7xMTeX12Ox9_rhWxpTNhM3OMnJN4YmCJ24vNh_n7kXxbQv60A0ViRv7PScgOYazQGf2gyDMJk94QEtec8nAw&utm_content=122422327&utm_source=hs_email), [Forever Ware](https://foreverware.org/?utm_campaign=BETA%20Explore%202021&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=122422327&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--6HPm0wOyYch95huxW0k0ibEY-kbhyeLyyplWopN1KskeSajy1UMxe0rft0GNO9mjswNP9U97ll-MREptHuBv8IOIdmA&utm_content=122422327&utm_source=hs_email)   - “Take advantage of the great resources in Minnesota!” Our state is #1 when it comes to business survivability rates. — [Neela Mollgaard](https://www.linkedin.com/in/neela-mollgaard-14ba58158/?utm_campaign=BETA%20Explore%202021&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=122422327&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_3V5rRiNWdsQTEOy2YB2m1aZot72d4xEWrXpFL5YZUrrJB7jB4XKJT3Sk5T_8NCajuoWSEvzSFdTSVH47GCElVgrd1rw&utm_content=122422327&utm_source=hs_email), [Launch MN](https://mn.gov/launchmn/?utm_campaign=BETA%20Explore%202021&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=122422327&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_jUQ_8DKj3e5sqeR44PXGX_hw7mDv3uWqer5qPpABUiNODRP1cYsrBB1ygAE6ef6wz_5ay--2c-tay2g2JMBaKq18_0g&utm_content=122422327&utm_source=hs_email) **About BETA** BETA is a 501(c)(3) organization that develops Minnesota’s next generation of business leaders by inspiring and educating first-time founders. The BETA Group nurtures startups and small businesses with great scalability potential, so they can grow to become our next Fortune 100s. [Learn more.](https://beta.mn/) ## RELATED ARTICLES ##### [Laura Beier May 16, 2021, 4:12:27 PM 7 min read Remembering that we’re human: how to take time for yourself After a year like we just had, it’s more important than ever to not forget about our mental health and life outside of work. Start Reading](https://blog.beta.mn/remembering-that-were-human-how-to-take-time-for-yourself) ##### [Laura Beier Mar 23, 2021, 9:44:11 AM 8 min read Startup Resources for Femme Founders Startup scenes from coast to coast have been historically dominated by the white male demographic. But organizations across ... 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Office Hours: 10 am - 4 pm, Mon-Thurs [![Beta-grey](https://blog.beta.mn/hs-fs/hubfs/Beta%20Logos/Beta-grey.png?width=66&name=Beta-grey.png)](https://www.beta.mn)  [![TCSW-grey](https://blog.beta.mn/hs-fs/hubfs/Beta%20Logos/TCSW-grey.png?width=105&name=TCSW-grey.png)](https://www.twincitiesstartupweek.com)    - Beta.mn - [About](https://www.beta.mn/about) - [Contact](https://www.beta.mn/contact-us) - [Subscribe](https://info.beta.mn/subscribe) - Programs - [Accelerator](https://www.beta.mn/join-a-cohort) - [Showcase](https://www.beta.mn/programs-showcase) © 2026 The Beta Group \- All rights reserved - [Terms / Privacy](https://www.beta.mn/terms-of-service-privacy)