IDEA Competition

looking for the next great breakthrough business idea
Growing the economy of Northwest Minnesota by outfitting the next generation of homegrown innovators for success in the global marketplace.

Hall of Fame

The IDEA Hall of Fame was instituted in 2009 by IDEA Competition partners to recognize and honor the accomplishments of the region’s legacy innovators—those within the region who have inspired others with their entrepreneurial vision, leadership and achievement.  Since that time, four distinctive individuals have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the region's economy.

Dennis and Glen Brazier inducted into IDEA Hall of Fame
In 2011, two entrepreneurial brothers, Dennis and Glen Brazier, were inducted into the IDEA Hall of Fame in recognition of their outstanding achievement and the contribution they have made to the region.
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Andy Wells IDEA Hall of Fame
In 2010, the IDEA Competition inducted Andy Wells, founder of Wells Technology and Wells Academy, into the IDEA Hall of Fame.
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Edgar Hetteen IDEA Hall of Fame
In 2009, the IDEA Competition inducted Edgar Hetten into the IDEA Hall of Fame. Mr. Hetteen was founder of Polaris and Arctic Cat.
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Meet Our Past IDEA Competition Winners

  • LaValley Industries
    2011 and 2010 Winner
    Creator of the "Deckhand," which is revolutionizing pipe-handling industry.
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  • EquipAll Grapple/Hoe
    2011 Winner
    Creator of a versatile skidsteer attachment called the "EquipAll GrappleHoe."
    go to our site
  • Grand Steer - Turn@bout
    2011 Winner
    Creator of the "Turn@bout," an attachment for pallet jacks that reduces turn radius.
    go to our site
  • Craft Night Out
    2011 Winner
    Their innovative business model changes the way craft kits are sold and creates a social experience for customers.
    go to our site
  • Insect Inferno
    2010 Winner
    Creator of a new method that uses heat to kill bedbugs - effective, efficient and environmentally friendly.
    go to our site
  • MacAttach Inc
    2010 Winner
    Creator of the Articulator, a weed control solution for tree farms, vineyards and hobby farms.
    go to our site
  • Highway My Way
    2010 Winner
    Creator of an innovative play product for children that allows them to design roads and highways.
    go to our site
  • Trophy Head Shot
    2010 Winner
    Creator of a hunting accessory that helps hunters set up the perfect photo of the game they shoot.
    go to our site
  • Forte Keyboard
    2009 Winner
    This keyboard is a new instrument - keys are arranged differently, making it easier to learn - easier to play.
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  • Ice Hogger
    2009 Winner
    The IceHogger is an attachment for an ice auger that makes setting up an ice-fishing hole quicker, safer, and easier.
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  • Start Stick
    2009 Winner
    Creator of a very small self-contained energy pack which provides all the power needed to start a 4-8 cylinder aircraft.
  • Xtreme DnA
    2009 Winner
    Creator of a whole new way to snowboard, giving snowboarder the ability to go faster with greater maneuverability.
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  • Read winner testimonials...