Students gathered together for a picture with the iPod Nano

From the Archives: iPod Nano Inspires Student Venture

Monday, April 13, 2026

iPod Nano model in it's package
A close-up look at the Minnesota-branded iPod Nano cover sold by U-Suits.

When iPod Nanos were the hottest item, Carlson students wanted in on the trend.

The idea became central to students in the inaugural Entrepreneurship in Action course 20 years ago. Based out of the Gary S. Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship, the yearlong course provides students the opportunity to create and launch a startup.

In 2006, students created the company U-Suits, which sold protective iPod nano covers emblazoned with the licensed University of Minnesota “M.” Their venture even expanded to include logos for Wisconsin and Michigan State. The classroom environment allowed the students to tackle real-world challenges, including a last-minute manufacturer replacement.

While the iPod Nano and U-Suits are no longer on store shelves, Entrepreneurship in Action lives on today.

 

Students gathered together for a picture with the iPod Nano
The team behind U-Suits poses with their iPod Nano cover in the University of Minnesota bookstore in 2006. Left to right: Luke Mayer, ’06 BSB; Dipesh Patel, ’06 BSB; Justin Kwan, ’06 BSB; Jay Cox, ’06 BSB; Reed Robinson, ’06 BSB; Clark Crawford, ’06 BSB; Brock Lauritsen, ’06 BSB; Max Mortellaro, ’07 BSB.
Spring 2026 alumni magazine cover

This article appeared in the Spring 2026 alumni magazine

In the world of business, Minnesota Carlson and its vibrant community act as a powerful spark for action and change.

Spring 2026 table of contents