There Ought to Be an App is MTN.org’s flagship program that empowers students, educators, and community innovators to use AI, design thinking, and visual communications to create real-world app concepts.
More than just a class, TOTBAA is a hands-on journey from idea → process → prototype. Participants learn how to identify problems, design solutions, and bring their app concepts to life — all while building critical career and technical skills.
Program Highlights
- Learn by Doing: Explore design thinking, project management, computational thinking, and visual communication through interactive workshops and self-paced activities.
- AI-Aided Creativity: Use artificial intelligence as a design partner — helping brainstorm, diagram processes, and test prototype ideas.
- Collaborative Community: Work alongside peers and mentors to refine ideas, share feedback, and gain confidence in presenting your solutions.
- Expert Mentorship: Gain insight and guidance from professionals in technology, entrepreneurship, and creative industries.
- Competitions & Recognition: Apply your skills in hackathons and pitch competitions. In 2026, TOTBAA will launch a state-wide contest so Minnesota students can showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills.
- Future-Ready Skills: Align your learning with career pathways supported by the Minnesota Perkins V Plan — including digital literacy, employability, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
Why TOTBAA?
Everyone has looked at a problem and thought, “There ought to be an app for that.”
At MTN.org, we turn that spark into action. Whether you’re a high school student exploring technology for the first time, a college student preparing for future careers, or an educator seeking engaging curriculum, TOTBAA provides the tools, training, and opportunities to bring bold ideas forward.
Beyond the Classroom
- Build skills that transfer directly into careers in technology and entrepreneurship.
- Participate in a state-wide competition in 2026 designed to inspire innovation and collaboration across Minnesota.
- Access MTN.org’s broader ecosystem of media, technology, and entrepreneurship resources — from hackathons to career mentoring.
Ready to Get Started?
Join us today and unlock the power of your creativity.