Exciting times are on the horizon for the ecosystem in St. Louis during the week of December 23-29. Our Founder, Erik Lutenegger, has curated a list of events and opportunities to help you connect, learn, and excel. While there aren’t many entrepreneurial, tech, and marketing available, there are several opportunities you can still take advantage of.
Accelerator, Funding, and ESO Opportunities
Due December 23 // Innovation in Philanthropy Awards 2025 | St. Louis Business Journal
This award recognizes businesses and organizations making impactful contributions to their community through innovative partnerships. Highlights include unique collaborations addressing critical issues like social justice and education, celebrating efforts that go beyond traditional philanthropy to drive meaningful change and nonprofit evolution.(Community Award)
Due December 31 // ZenBusiness $5K Grant
This program offers $5,000 grants to small business owners who have used ZenBusiness’s formation services within the past 3 to 6 months. Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old, operate a U.S.-based private entity that benefits their community, and can apply once per month. Grantees also receive 30-day access to ZenBusiness Money Pro and other services. (Grant)
Due December 31 // Honeycomb Credit’s Fall Grant
Provides $5,000 grants to small businesses looking to innovate or expand. Applicants share their plans for utilizing the funds to enhance operations, fostering growth and positive impact within their communities. (Grant)
Due February 4 // Idea Fund | Missouri Technology Corporation
The IDEA Fund makes direct equity-based investments in Missouri’s most promising emerging companies to promote growth and encourage additional future investment. They have 4 programs: Proof of Concept for early-stage entrepreneurs, the TechLaunch for pre-seed, Seed Capital for the Seed stage, and the Venture Capital Program, which supports technology startups through matching equity or convertible debt investments up to $2,000,000. (Funding)
Free WordPress Speed Optimizations for Non-Profits
Tenacity has officially launched SwingSpan, a Digital Divide program that provides free WordPress Speed Optimizations for Non-profits. So if you are part of a non-profit or know someone who is, and they use WordPress for their website, apply at Swingspan.app.
Not Startup, Marketing, and Tech Events
Now through the End of the Year
Winterfest | Gateway Arch Park Foundation
Join in the festive atmosphere of Winterfest, where families can skate under twinkling lights at the ice rink, indulge in s’mores, and create lasting memories. Character meet-and-greets with superheroes and princesses will delight both children and adults alike. (In-Person | Keiner Plaza)
Anheuser-Busch Brewery Lights
Share memorable moments under the stars at the Brewery Lights event, where cozy fire pits await you. Treat your group to delicious s’mores while enjoying top-notch Anheuser-Busch products in this unique VIP package. (In-Person | Anheuser-Busch)
Cortex aglow
Kick off the holiday season at this stunning winter-themed celebration, featuring twinkling lighted snowflakes and brightened trees. This immersive experience runs from late November to early January, inviting guests for memorable photos and festive cheer. (In-Person | Cortex)
Garden Glow | Missouri Botanical Gardens
Marvel at the dazzling transformation of the Missouri Botanical Garden during this festive celebration filled with animated lights and seasonal joy. Experience unique activities like fire pit rentals and photo opportunities with Santa amidst an immersive garden setting. (In-Person | Missouri Botanical Gardens)
Winter Wanderlust Lounge – Holiday Bar | The Passport
Partake in a vibrant holiday celebration at the Winter Wanderlust Lounge, where exciting global flavors come alive amidst a cheerful atmosphere. Bring friends along to savor drinks that embody the essence of winter festivities. (In-Person | The Passport)
December 25
Chanukah @ The Arch | Chabad of Greater St. Louis
Soak up the beauty of Chanukah as the Staenberg Menorah brightens the St. Louis skyline nightly. Embrace the season with family-friendly festivities, including ice skating near the Arch from December 26 to 31, for an extra festive touch. (Free | Keiner Plaza)
December 26
Thursday Nights at the Museum: Kwanzaa Celebration | Missouri History Society
Join the Missouri History Museum on the first day of this weeklong annual celebration honoring African American culture. Reflect on the seven principles of Kwanzaa, spend time among the community, and enjoy live performances. (In-Person | Missouri History Museum)
Join us on Meetup or Tiktok.
Share your excitement for the week ahead in the comments below! Your passion drives the growth of the St. Louis startup, tech, and marketing ecosystem. If you’re hosting an event or have a key deadline approaching, please inform us at [email protected].