There ought to be an app

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.

• 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.
   

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.

• 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.
   

Join us today and unlock the power of your creativity.