WALLEYE TANK - CELEBRATING 10 YEARS!

A Pitch Competition for Healthcare and Life Science Innovators - LEARN MORE

Join us for Walleye Tank, a high-energy pitch event showcasing some of the most promising startups in healthcare and life sciences. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Walleye Tank—celebrating a decade of advancing Minnesota’s healthcare innovation ecosystem.

Hosted by HealthcareMN, the event brings together founders, investors, clinicians, and industry leaders for an afternoon of innovation, connection, and community.

This year, 18 startups will take the stage across three divisions:

• Junior (6 teams) – early-stage innovators
• Mid-Level (6 teams) – scaling startups competing for cash prizes, mentorship, and direct entry into MN Cup semifinals
• Great Lake Giants (6 teams) – growth-stage, investment-ready companies showcased for visibility and investor connections

Experience live pitches, real-time feedback from judges, and the opportunity to connect with the people shaping the future of healthcare.

Event Experience & Agenda 

      2:30 PM – Doors Open
     Check in, grab a drink, and start connecting with founders, investors, and innovators.

     3:00 PM – Kickoff Begins
    Opening remarks and a look at what’s ahead for Walleye Tank’s 10th year.

     3:20 PM – Junior Division Takes the Stage
    Watch 6 early-stage startups pitch bold ideas and get live feedback from judges.

    4:05 PM – Break & Connect
    Refuel, network, and meet the people behind the innovation.

    4:25 PM – Mid-Level Showdown
    6 scaling startups compete for cash prizes, mentorship, and a shot at the MN Cup semifinals.

    5:10 PM – Great Lake Giants Showcase
    Meet 6 investment-ready companies poised for growth—where real deals and connections can begin.

    5:45 PM – Deliberation & Networking
    Judges finalize decisions while you continue conversations and cast your vote.

    6:15 PM – Winners Announced 🏆
    Celebrate the top startups across categories and see who takes home the honors.

    6:30 PM – Networking & Afterglow
    Stay, connect, and build relationships with Minnesota’s healthcare innovation community.

What to Expect

• Live startup pitches from emerging healthcare innovators
• Insights and feedback from experienced judges
• Success stories from past winners
• Networking with founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders
• A chance to discover what’s next in healthcare innovation

Who Should Attend

• Healthcare and life science founders
• Investors and venture partners
• Clinicians and industry professionals
• Students and aspiring entrepreneurs
• Anyone interested in the future of healthcare innovation

❓ FAQ

Who can attend?
Anyone passionate about healthcare innovation.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just yourself, your curiosity, and your networking energy!

Parking & Venue Access: 

On Site Parking: The Walker Art Center has an underground parking garage at 727 Vineland Place, just steps from the museum entrance. The garage is open 24/7, offers covered parking, and is handicap accessible with spaces near the elevator and entrance. Rates are approximately $4 for the first hour, $6 for up to 12 hours, and $8 for 12–24 hours.

Several nearby garages and lots provide additional options:

• LPM Garage (198 W. 14th St., 0.4 mi away)
• Orpheum Lot (1022 Hennepin Ave., 0.6 mi away) 
• 11th & Marquette Garage (1111 S. Marquette Ave., 0.7 mi away) 
• Farmer’s Market/Glenwood Lot (225 E. Lyndale Ave. N., 0.8 mi away)
• Theatre Ramp Garage (910 Lasalle Ave., 0.8 mi away) 
  Metered spots and time restricted street parking is also available around the museum. 

🤝 Our Partners

Thank you to the partners who make Walleye Tank possible:

About HealthcareMN

HealthcareMN is Minnesota’s grassroots community for healthcare innovators — focused on building connections, increasing visibility, and supporting early-stage founders across the ecosystem.

🎟️ Space is limited — reserve your spot today and help shape the future of healthcare in Minnesota!