A challenge indeed for your zone. If you know of a protected spot with good drainage but receives lots of snow cover, try planting a couple corms deeply in late May. They should grow leaves but perhaps not flower until the corms bulk up a bit more and flower the following year if ground isn't frozen too deeply. I think wet rot is their demise.
Otherwise plant started corms deep into a large pot. Tuck the pot in between other plants, shrubs, for partial sun protection. (Same applies for above.) You could bring the pot inside next fall. They will multiply like crazy if kept in soil!
Perhaps some of your forgotten corms have life in them. Pick through them. If they fall apart when rolling in your fingers they are toast. Smile.