Minnesota Business Venture Week 1 2025 – Empowerment Day

Publish on July 3, 2025 Categories -

It’s Empowerment Day at Minnesota Business Venture (MBV)! Thank you to The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation for being today’s sponsor.
Many exciting events happened throughout the day, including business presentations, two engaging speakers, a competition called Minute-to-Win-It, and a dance!

[Eric Forstrom on his keynote “Crushing It.”]

The opening presentation was made by Eric Forstrom, Product Strategy and Operations Executive from Wells Fargo, on the topic titled “Crushing It.” He shared valuable public speaking advice, referenced his own personal experiences, and how that shaped his into the man he is today.

After the keynote, the campers held a final company meeting and enjoyed a quick lunch. The time that every camper has been waiting for… presentation time!

[Student in their business plan presentation.]

Everyone’s business plan presentations were successful! All companies received their funding, some double or triple their asking – a true testament to their exceptional business plans and presentations! Congratulations to each and every one! We’re so incredibly proud of their hard work, they were dedicated and absolutely outstanding!

[Bella Lam speaking during her keynote “Dreams to Action.”]

Following the business presentations, students had their last keynote at camp. Bella Lam, Founder and CEO of Coconut Whisk, encouraged students to set ambitious goals and to go beyond the bare minimum of a product or project. She challenged campers to push past their comfort zones, take over setbacks, and use their mistakes as stepping stool to success.

[Students competing in Minute-to-Win-It.]

Students celebrated at the end of the night with a dance, some bowling, and great conversation conversations.

We can’t wait to see what week 2 has in store!