Who is HealthcareMN?
A collaborative community of innovators and thinkers passionate about healthcare.
HealthcareMN’s MISSION is to accelerate healthcare innovation in Minnesota and beyond by creating a vibrant, supportive community of individuals, passionate about change in the healthcare industry through community-led events.
HealthcareMN’s VISION is to become the premier platform where individuals in the Minnesota healthcare innovation space converge, collaborate, and support each other to nurture, develop, and scale ideas.
Our Story
HealthcareMN was founded with a vision to create an innovative, proudly-Minnesotan healthcare community. The initial event in January 2013, hosted by Pete Kane, Solome Tibebu, and Thompson Aderinkomi, kickstarted the organization's growth and success.
Today, HealthcareMN has nearly 2,300 members from diverse backgrounds, including entrepreneurs, healthcare providers, investors, designers, and corporate leaders. Led by individuals with non-traditional experience, the organization has thrived and is now in its fourth generation of leadership.
As healthcare innovation evolves, HealthcareMN remains a valuable resource for the community. Under the current leadership of Rashmi Kandwal, Pooja Kandikonda, and Duza Baba, the organization continues to grow and support those tackling healthcare's biggest challenges.
With a grassroots network and a commitment to serving the community, HealthcareMN is driving positive change in Minnesota's healthcare startup landscape. From its humble beginnings with 30 attendees, it has transformed into a vibrant community of professionals and innovators, dedicated to making a difference in the industry.
Meet the Team
Rashmi Kandwal
Executive Director
Shekwoduza Baba
Head of Community Development
Matt Catanzarite
Strategic Partnerships
Kathy Zamarripa
Digital Lead
Board of Directors
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Mary MacCarthy
Venture Center Senior Program Manager, University of Minnesota
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Pinar Karaca-Mandic
Distinguished McKnight University Professor, C. Arthur Williams Jr. Professor in Healthcare Risk Management, Director of BACH
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Ryan Johnson
Attorney, Fredrikson & Byron
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Lilly Melandar
Director Of Government Affairs at Biotechnology Innovation Organization and Mahtomedi City Council Member
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Kurt WaltenBaugh
Founder, Kestrel Rising
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Paul Carlson
Principal, CLA
Our Sponsors
