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In June 2012, Hiawatha Broadband joined forces with Ignite, marking the beginning of an innovative community initiative in Red Wing. A dedicated group of local leaders and visionaries came together to establish a business incubator focused on public safety and healthcare. Over the following months, plans were developed, and in January 2013, the initiative was formally launched. With an equity fund to support startups and a successful remodeling designed, the incubator opened in April, signifying a significant step towards fostering local entrepreneurship and ensuring lasting success.
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Progress…how it evolved • June 2012: Hiawatha Broadband named Ignite partner • July 2012: Red Wing selected as HBC Ignite community • August 2012: Bill Wallace visits to discuss potentials with Red Wing leaders • Small, dedicated group formed to shepherd development
Active few make big things happen • Plans immediately begin to take shape • Public safety, health care selected as focus • Not-for-profit status decided upon • Business incubator determined a wise first step • Building located, secured, remodeling designed • Initiative formally launched in January 2013 • Beyond incubation: getting them to stay
Ongoing plan for success created • Equity fund to assist start-ups created • Early fund-raising efforts successful • Remodeling funds secured • Incubator opening set for April • Developers being successfully recruited • Operating funds now being sought • Success seems inevitable