By Joshua Schuetz
CEDA’s Rural Business Innovation Lab (RBIL) has announced the selection of its second cohort, comprising eleven innovative companies across Minnesota and Wisconsin. This diverse group of businesses and organizations has been chosen based on their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and impact on rural communities.
RBIL is a cohort-based entrepreneurial development program that seeks to dismantle the false narrative of rural decline by fostering a vibrant ecosystem of rural entrepreneurs. Through the program, these innovators will access a robust network of peers, industry experts, and resources essential for starting and scaling their businesses.
The 2024 RBIL cohort spans a wide array of industries, reflecting RBIL’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity in rural entrepreneurship. From agriculture and sustainability to farm-to-table food and herbal remedies, these ventures embody the spirit of innovation and resilience.
Meet the members of the 2024 RBIL cohort:
- Baptism River Barbeque (Silver Bay, MN) – Crafting authentic Northwoods barbecue using locally sourced ingredients from Lake Superior’s north shore.
- Rustic Roots Farm (Alexandria, MN) – Balancing sustainable farming practices with innovative techniques to produce high-quality agricultural products.
- Simple Cider Co. (Annandale, MN) – Creating a family-friendly space offering both hard cider and non-alcoholic juice, redefining inclusivity in beverage culture.
- Lavender Barnyard (Farmington, MN) – Cultivating native Minnesota lavender while providing a serene retreat for visitors seeking tranquility.
- Bayl (Northfield, MN) – Crafting heirloom-quality woolen goods and reimagining ethical apparel production.
- Cannon Valley Graziers (Northfield, MN) – Specializing in adaptive grazing and targeted vegetation management for ecological impact in Southern Minnesota.
- Get Bentz Farm (Northfield, MN) – Raising Icelandic sheep and producing a range of wool products sourced from local fibers.
- Lakota Made (Mankato, MN) – Offering indigenous herbal remedies and eco-friendly personal care products rooted in sustainability and cultural heritage.
- Fiddlehead Knob (Le Roy, MN) – A solar-powered family farm specializing in mushroom cultivation and foraging for local food sustainability.
- Embark Maple (Viroqua, WI) – Harnessing organic maple syrup for energy and nutrition in innovative food products.
- Driftless Seeds (Ferryville, WI) – Providing high-quality, locally adapted seeds and supplies for Midwest growers, with a focus on sustainability.
The formation of this cohort represents a pivotal moment in rural economic development, aligning with RBIL’s mission to empower entrepreneurs from all backgrounds. RBIL is committed to providing equal access and support, particularly for diverse individuals in rural communities.
Throughout the eight-month program, cohort members will receive personalized coaching, industry workshops, and access to a comprehensive network of resources and experts. With financial support from both Compeer Financial and MN Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), RBIL aims to catalyze entrepreneurship-led economic development (ELED) by fostering sustainable business growth and job creation in rural areas.
For more information about RBIL and updates on the cohort’s progress, visit:
https://www.cedausa.com/ruralinnovation/ and follow us on Instagram @ruralbusinessinnovationlab