Hey there, inventors and entrepreneurs!
If you’re building something new here in Rochester, Minnesota, we’ve got some great local spots that can help you get going whether you’re just sketching out an idea or already pitching to investors.
At Bold Patents, we help folks protect what they’ve built patents, trademarks, you name it. But today, I want to show you four awesome places in Rochester where innovators like you can get support.
Let’s dive in.
1. Mayo Clinic Business Accelerator
If you’re aiming high think venture capital, angel investors, or seed funding this is where you start.
Founded in 2013, the Accelerator offers a collaborative space and support network for health tech and biotech startups. Yes, it leans medical but don’t let that stop you.
Here are a few standout companies that launched from here:
- Virad – fighting cancer with virus-based therapies.
- Sonex Health – working on less-invasive treatments for joint problems.
- Ambient Clinical Analytics – making real-time tools for better patient care.
It’s more than office space. It’s a place to connect with others on the same path.
2. Collider Foundation
This one’s for the scrappy founders. If you’re just getting started and working on a tight budget, Collider is your best friend.
It’s a nonprofit that offers:
- Workshops on how to grow your business
- Help with hiring and raising money
- Mentorship from people who’ve done it before
Some cool startups that grew from Collider include:
- Thaddeus Medical Systems – creating smart packaging for sensitive meds.
- GoRout – making wearable tech for football players to train smarter.
If you’re building something from scratch, this place gets it.
3. BioBusiness Center
Think of this as a co-working hub with a science twist.
It’s a mixed use building with lab space, offices and shared resources. What makes it great? You’re surrounded by other inventors, researchers and founders. People you can actually talk to.
Starting a company can feel lonely. But here, you can grab coffee with someone who’s in the same boat, swap ideas, and maybe even find your next collaborator.
4. University of Minnesota Venture Center
The U of M is a major player when it comes to launching startups.
Their Venture Center helps spin out 20+ new companies every year mostly from research happening at the university.
Recent startups include:
- Nuvaira – building tools for less-invasive surgeries.
- Phraze – using AI to simplify medical notes for doctors.
Even if you’re not a student, there are events, pitch nights and ways to plug in.
So there you go four local resources right here in Rochester that can help you build, grow, and launch your idea.
And if you’re ready to protect your invention with a patent or trademark, we’ve got your back.
At Bold Patents, we offer free consultations for local inventors. Just reach out.
Until then keep building. And as we say…
Go big. Go bold.
