Young entrepreneurs will be meeting at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) on Friday to network with one another, pitch business ideas, and get feedback from seasoned entrepreneurs. This is the second annual Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities (CEO) & Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE SW) Student Entrepreneurship Conference. The conference runs from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the SMSU Conference Center Upper Level.

According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, 94% of all Minnesota businesses employ fewer than 50 employees. Small business start-ups are critical to the economic vitality of southwest Minnesota. SMSU, local high schools, and regional businesses are working together to create an entrepreneurial culture in southwest Minnesota. Students are being mentored by local business owners and working toward launching their own businesses. This event will provide students with the opportunity to pitch their business ideas and receive feedback from other students and veteran entrepreneurs.

Several businesses and organizations partnered to plan and host this event: SMSU Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce, State Bank of Taunton, D&G Excavating, Bremer Bank, Hy-Vee, Suite Liv’n, US Bank, Wilson O’Brien, Midwest Ag Future, Hamilton Funeral Home, Meulebroeck Tabert & Co PLLP, Redwood Valley Technical Solutions, and Sleep Inn & Suites.