Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s a present-day reality that’s subtly transforming our daily lives. In Minneapolis, a burgeoning AI startup scene is at the forefront of this transformation, developing technologies that enhance efficiency, decision-making, and overall quality of life.
Mill City AI: Empowering Local Governments
One notable player is Mill City AI, a Minneapolis-based startup dedicated to modernizing small and medium-sized cities. They develop practical AI tools that simplify operations and improve public services, helping local governments become more efficient and delivering meaningful benefits that citizens experience every day. Their solutions include streamlining permitting processes, optimizing infrastructure management, and strengthening community engagement. By leveraging AI, Mill City AI empowers local governments to make smarter decisions, improve transparency, and pursue achievable sustainability goals.
Inspectorio: Revolutionizing Supply Chain Management
Another significant contributor is Inspectorio, a cloud-based SaaS company that assists brands, retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers in managing risk through digitalized quality, compliance, and production tracking programs. Inspectorio aims to build an interconnected, sustainable, and transparent supply chain. Today, Inspectorio is used by over 7,000 customers, including some of the largest brands and retailers in the world. Their AI-driven platform enables businesses to predict and prevent issues, ensuring product quality and compliance throughout the supply chain.
Blank Metal: Accelerating AI Integration
Blank Metal is a Minneapolis-based startup that specializes in helping businesses integrate AI into their operations. They offer services such as creating board-ready AI roadmaps, developing production-ready minimum viable products (MVPs) in less than 90 days, and providing training and governance to scale AI initiatives. Their approach emphasizes delivering working software over prolonged pilot phases, enabling companies to realize the benefits of AI more swiftly.
75F: Enhancing Building Automation
75F is a predictive and proactive IoT-based building automation system that addresses HVAC, lighting, and equipment control needs. By utilizing AI, 75F optimizes building performance, leading to increased energy efficiency and occupant comfort. Their solutions are particularly beneficial for commercial buildings seeking to reduce energy consumption and operational costs.
Flywheel: Advancing Medical Imaging Research
Flywheel provides a cloud-based comprehensive data research platform for the healthcare industry. Their platform facilitates data capture, analysis, and research sharing, particularly in the field of medical imaging. By leveraging AI, Flywheel enables researchers to manage and analyze large datasets more effectively, accelerating advancements in medical research and patient care.
These startups exemplify how Minneapolis is becoming a hub for AI innovation, with technologies that are quietly reshaping various aspects of our daily lives. From enhancing public services and supply chain management to optimizing building operations and advancing medical research, AI is making a tangible impact in our community.

