Minnesota Section of the Institute of Food Technologists

A Panel Discussion

On-ramp to Food & Ag Entrepreneurship 

featuring MN Brands and AURI 

Intent:
A discussion between MN Brands on their growing journey from creating their company, developing their products, the growing pains they experience, how they overcame them, and where they see themselves growing.

Topic:
Educate the audience who come from small to big companies what it takes for a small company to grow. MN-IFT is composed of many companies, many being “big”, who don’t necessarily understand what it takes to be a small company. On the flip side, those attending that are interested in starting or are starting a company will have the chance to learn what others have done before them.

Annual Silent Auction

Join us for a night of excitement and impact at the 2025 Annual Silent Auction, hosted by the Minnesota Section of the Institute of Food Technologists (MNIFT). This year's event will be held on February 4^th at Surly Brewery’s Scheid Hall, promising an evening filled with spirited bidding and community engagement. 

We are thrilled to partner with Naturally MN and Make-it-Minnesota to bring you an inspiring event centered around the theme "On-Ramp to Food and Ag Entrepreneurship." This theme highlights our commitment to fostering innovation and growth within the food and agriculture sectors. 

All proceeds from the silent auction will go towards student scholarships and supporting MNIFT's mission to deliver high-quality events and initiatives that advance the science of food. By participating in this event, you'll be directly contributing to the education and development of future food science professionals, ensuring a robust and dynamic future for our industry. 

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, support a worthy cause, and make a tangible difference in the lives of students and the broader community.

Purpose:

• Raise funds for student scholarships in the sciences of food (Middle/High School to College)
• Support MNIFT’s mission to deliver high-quality events 
• Foster innovation and growth in the food and agriculture sectors

Highlights:

• Silent auction with exciting items and experiences 
• Opportunities to meet and network with industry leaders from small and large companies 
• Engaging in discussions and presentations on entrepreneurship in food and agriculture 

Why Participate?

Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and students in the food industry

Learn and Grow: Gain insights from successful entrepreneurs and industry leaders 

Support a Worthy Cause: Contribute to the education and development of future food science professionals 

Collaborate: Discover opportunities for small businesses to collaborate with big companies’ like General Mills, Cargill, Land O’ Lakes, and more.