Join us for the 2025 Entrepreneurial Bridge! We are excited to once again partner with Albert Lea Economic Development Agency (ALEDA) to host one of our region’s largest gatherings of rural innovators and entrepreneurs.
Details:Tickets cost $25Tuesday, September 23, 20258 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. with a reception to follow until 5:30 p.m.Wedgewood Cove, 2200 West 9th Street, Albert Lea, Minnesota 56007
Meet our keynote speaker: Connor Wray | JonnyPops“From dorm room to national brand, a start-up story”
Learn how a trip to the grocery store inspired two college students to create an alternative frozen treat to the existing unhealthy options. Like any entrepreneurial journey, nothing goes in a straight line. Hear how Connor’s resilience and commitment to doing good with each JonnyPop has launched his business into a national brand.
About Connor Wray:Connor is the co-founder and chief financial officer of JonnyPops. He is a committed and disciplined leader who has focused the organization on balancing business fundamentals while undergoing rapid growth and transformation, leading to consistent improvement in performance and profitability. Connor holds a BA in Economics and Computer Science from St. Olaf College, has been recognized as a keynote speaker at business, technology and entrepreneurship events across the country, and was named to the 2018 class of Forbes 30 Under 30 innovative and emerging leaders.
We will also hear from:Bill Bartz, Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm co-ownerBucky Beeman, Realty Growth, Inc commercial real estate agentChristine Lantinen, Maud Borup Inc. president and ownerGary Noble, Bio-Plastic Solutions LLC president and CEODr. Jeffrey Stamp, University of Minnesota teaching professor of entrepreneurshipJena Thompson, Daisy Blue Naturals chemist and CEO
Sponsors:Thank you to the 504 Corporation for sponsoring this event!
If you have questions, please contact Jennifer Heien, entrepreneurship administrative coordinator, at jenniferh@smifoundation.org or 507-214-7040.

More Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1032741815515524/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D