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Robert Stephens to be named U of M 'Entrepreneur of the Year' at Sept. 6 Minnesota Cup event
MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL ( 9/6/2007 ) -- Robert Stephens, founder and chief inspector of Geek Squad, will be presented with the University of Minnesota's "Entrepreneur of the Year" award at 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 6, at the McNamara Alumni Center, 200 Oak St. S.E., Minneapolis. The ceremony will also announce the winners of the 2007 Minnesota Cup, a competition that encourages entrepreneurial spirit and highlights the position of the University of Minnesota as a hub for innovation. "Robert Stephens is incredibly passionate about achieving his vision for Geek Squad. Both independently and as part of a larger organization, he created a truly unique culture that is transforming its industry on an international scale," said John Stavig, professional director of the Gary S. Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship at the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota. "Robert has been a terrific inspiration to the university community as a frequent speaker to our classes, clubs and alumni groups across campus. We're pleased to recognize him as a leading example of Minnesota's current generation of entrepreneurs." Stephens attended the University of Minnesota for three years. He left in April 1994 to form Geek Squad with $200 and a bicycle, and the idea caught on fast in the Twin Cities. Geek Squad expanded to offer services in cities across the country and in 2002 became a subsidiary of Bloomington, Minn.-based Best Buy to provide nationwide tech support, where Stephens retained his role as chief inspector. Now in its 13th year of business, Geek Squad boasts 12,000 agents and serves the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and China with computer installations, repairs and training. In addition to providing service to individuals, families and small businesses, the Geek Squad takes on special assignments. Past clients have included the Rolling Stones, U2 and the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile. About the Minnesota Cup In just three years since its inception, the Minnesota Cup competition has spurred over 1,700 entries from 48 counties around the state. The competition's mission is to seek out, support, celebrate and promote Minnesota's newest, most innovative business ideas and connect resident entrepreneurs with leading executives, investors and the University of Minnesota. The Holmes Center and alumni founders of the competition hope it will inspire new business ventures and drive economic growth in the state of Minnesota. ---------- |
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