"The Changing Landscape of Woody Biomass: Where Does Renewable Energy Fit?" was the theme of the Minnesota Renewable Energy Roundtable held April 9, 2014, in Grand Rapids, Minn. The event was hosted by the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI) in collaboration with UMD's Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI). The event featured nearly 20 experts from various parts of the biomass industry. The presenters and attendees confirmed the need to address woody biomass and that there are many things happening in the industry, from Heating the Midwest to the Statewide Wood Energy Team grants, and much more.  

Each year, Midwest Cleantech Open selects 15-30 emerging companies to participate in their five-month national accelerator program. The Cleantech Open Business Accelerator program consists of a number of activities and resources including extensive mentoring, training, access to investors and capital, numerous opportunities to showcase to the media and the public, and an opportunity for awards.