About

the Taste of Minnesota Foundation

The Taste of Minnesota Foundation is committed to providing a free, safe, and inclusive event that welcomes all Minnesotans to celebrate and connect through food, music, and art.

We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating the cultural, culinary, and creative richness of our state. Through large-scale, inclusive public events—most notably the Taste of Minnesota festival—we create meaningful opportunities for connection, economic growth, and cultural expression.

Our mission is to elevate local voices, spotlight Minnesota’s diverse food traditions, and provide accessible platforms for artists, musicians, and small businesses to thrive. We believe that food, music, and art are powerful tools for bringing people together and reflecting the full vibrancy of our communities.

The Foundation’s flagship event, Taste of Minnesota, drew over 100,000 attendees in 2024, offering a free, family-friendly experience that featured live performances, culinary offerings from across the cultural spectrum, and a curated market of local makers. With over 70% of participants representing BIPOC- and women-owned businesses, the event is a model for inclusive, community-centered programming. The economic ripple effects—supporting local vendors, hiring artists, and drawing regional visitors—underscore its growing role in Minnesota’s cultural and economic landscape.

Through continued investment and collaboration, the Taste of Minnesota Foundation is working to build a more connected, creative, and representative future for public events in our state.