Gear up for a week of growth and connection in St. Louis! From February 24 – March 2, our thriving ecosystem welcomes entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and marketing professionals. Our Founder, Erik Lutenegger, has assembled an indispensable list of events to elevate your skills and expand your network.
ESO, Accelerator, and Funding Opportunities
Application Open // Creative Space Activation Grant | Missouri Main Street Connection
Missouri Main Street Connection offers a $10,000 grant to local Main Street organizations to activate outdoor public spaces in historic districts. The initiative aims to enhance community engagement and vibrancy through placemaking projects. Applications are accepted annually. (Funding)
Application Open // Techstars Tokyo Accelerator
A three-month accelerator in Tokyo supports early-stage startups across industries like Deeptech, Fintech, Cleantech, and Climatetech. Participants receive mentorship, funding, and access to a global network to scale their businesses. Major industry and government partners back the program to foster innovation and growth. (Accelerator)
Application Open // Square One Ignite | Cortex
This four-week program assists early-stage entrepreneurs in validating their business models. Participants engage in weekly sessions to test business assumptions, connect with mentors, and identify crucial steps for launching their ventures. The program focuses on industries such as advanced manufacturing, food, information technology, and services. (Bootcamp)
Due March 1 // The Startup Challenge | Powered by Snowflake
Early-stage AI startups can compete for up to $1 million in investments, mentorship from industry leaders, and global exposure by building applications leveraging Snowflake’s Data Cloud. Finalists gain opportunities for networking, showcasing innovations, and significant industry recognition. (Competition)
Due March 3 // 2025 Startup World Cup Applications | TechSTL
A regional pitch competition selects one St. Louis startup to compete in Silicon Valley for a $1M investment prize. 100 startups will pitch live during STL TechWeek across industry-focused competitions, with 10 finalists advancing to regional finals. The winner represents St. Louis in the global Startup World Cup Grand Finale. (Pitch Competition)
Due March 3 // Velocity Startup Workshop | TechSTL
A free, six-week startup workshop series in Alton, Illinois, helps first-time founders refine customer discovery, value proposition, market strategy, and fundraising. Open to tech-based or tech-enabled startups from ideation to MVP stages, participants receive mentorship and a table at STL TechWeek’s Startup Alley. Sponsored by Fidelity Private Shares. (Pitch Competition)
Due March 14 // SLU New Venture Accelerator | Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship
This 14-week accelerator program offers Saint Louis University students and recent alumni equity-free investments of up to $50,000, focusing on customer discovery, validation, business development, and revenue modeling. Participants engage in weekly in-person sessions in St. Louis, culminating in a demo day for investors and partners. (Accelerator)
Due April 11 // Missouri Startup Weekend
A three-day event at EquipmentShare HQ allows participants to develop business ideas with mentorship and investor support. Competitors can win a $10,000 cash prize, $15,000 in MVP development services, and potential investments exceeding $150,000. The program fosters innovation and connects entrepreneurs with industry leaders. (Startup Competition)
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.
Marketing, Startup, and Tech Events
February 24
How personalised lead generation can help with sales | Enterprise Nation
This engaging webinar will equip you with essential strategies to craft compelling sales messages and develop a reliable lead generation system. Join Laura Burton as she shares her proven methods for leveraging social media to boost your business’s visibility and growth. (Virtual)
Mentoring Monday | St. Louis Business Journal
Join an engaging forum that brings together passionate individuals eager to share their knowledge. Attendees can expect enlightening discussions that inspire fresh ideas and encourage peer networking, fostering a vibrant learning environment. (In-Person | Missouri Botanical Garden)
The SEO Update by Yoast
Uncover crucial developments in SEO with insights from renowned experts Carolyn Shelby and Alex Moss. This one-hour session, packed with information and an interactive Q&A segment, is designed for those eager to refine their strategies based on the latest trends. (Virtual)
From Pitch to Funding: A Fast-Track Guide for Startups | Founder Institute
Experience a transformative opportunity designed for aspiring entrepreneurs. This event provides essential strategies from accomplished VCs and accelerators on crafting compelling pitches that attract attention and significantly increase funding chances. (Virtual)
From Hobby to Business in 90 Days | NY Public Library, Thomas Yoseloff Business
Join a vibrant community of aspiring entrepreneurs in this 90-minute session to discover essential strategies for launching a successful business on platforms like Etsy and Amazon Handmade—all from the comfort of your home. (Virtual)
Leading with AI in Marketing and the Tools to Succeed | American Marketing Association
Explore the innovative intersection of artificial intelligence and marketing in this virtual gathering. With a keynote presentation, attendees will understand AI’s transformative impact on marketing practices, complemented by engaging product demos showcasing cutting-edge technologies that enhance strategic efficiency. (Virtual)
February 25
Black History is G.R.A.N.D | Delmar DivINe
Venture into an inspiring gathering where the legacy of grandmothers is honored through stories shared by Tina Grimes and other leaders. Experience the richness of generational wisdom at this meaningful cultural event celebrating women’s leadership. (In-Person | Delmar DivINe)
How to Start and Scale a Newsletter in 2025 | Network After Work
Take part in an inspiring webinar dedicated to navigating the landscape of newsletter development. You’ll receive valuable tips on audience engagement, subscriber retention, and robust monetization strategies tailored for success in the digital marketplace. (Virtual)
Power Your Search Engine Optimization Potential | WE NYC
Participate in a dynamic session that offers insights into maximizing your social media effectiveness. With guidance from expert Sandra Garcia, attendees will discover innovative methods to enhance their online branding and drive successful business outcomes. (Virtual)
3 SEO Insights and Tips for 2025 | MarketingProfs
Transform your understanding of digital marketing with key lessons from industry veteran Janet Driscoll Miller. This free webinar will provide the tools needed to navigate the complexities of SEO changes anticipated this year, ensuring your strategies remain effective. (Virtual)
Sustainability Lab: City of St. Louis Sustainability & Climate Plan | OneSTL
Thrive in an interactive environment as the community comes together to discuss key priorities for St. Louis’s Sustainability and Climate Plan updates. This event invites valuable contributions from residents for actionable strategies that promote environmental health. (In-Person | T-REX)
Tech on Tap Networking – Metro East STL | TechSTL
Savor engaging discussions at this monthly networking event, where tech enthusiasts unite. Enjoy local beers and delicious pizza while tapping into fresh ideas and insights from guest speakers about the latest trends in technology. (In-Person | Old Herald Brewery & Distillery)
February 26
Coffee Talks @21c: Black Biz & Black Wealth – STL’s Path Forward | 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis
Kick off an empowering morning of dialogue surrounding economic opportunities for the Black business community. This Coffee Talk invites guests to partake in discussions about overcoming systemic barriers while promoting pathways available for successful entrepreneurship. (In-Person | 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis)
PitchSTL | Presenters: By Jack & Legendairy
This engaging networking opportunity allows local entrepreneurs to present groundbreaking ideas while receiving crucial input from peers in attendance. It’s more than just pitching; it’s about fostering community support for thriving startups in St. Louis. (In-Person | Cortex’s Square One)
SEO Accelerator: How to Create an SEO Strategy That Increases Search Engine Visibility by 375% | Moz
Be part of the discussion as Peter Richman showcases his agency’s success story in amplifying search visibility by 375%. Gain indispensable tools and techniques tailored for modern digital landscapes, ensuring you can turn insights into impactful actions. (Virtual)
GRIT February Panel Luncheon | Jennifer Bardot, G.R.I.T Founder
Delight in an empowering event that combines delicious food with engaging dialogue on crucial themes surrounding resilience and leadership. Join professionals as they explore coaching methodologies while building meaningful connections within the community. (In-Person | The Lodge Des Peres)
Government Contracting Matchmaking Event with the SBA | Kirkwood Public Library
Embrace a unique opportunity where small businesses can connect directly with federal agencies and prime contractors. Attend insightful presentations outlining various contracting opportunities, followed by personalized one-on-one meetings that could lead to valuable business partnerships. (In-Person | Kirkwood Public Library)
Generative AI for Software Delivery: Strategies for IT Leaders | Google Cloud
Share knowledge about generative AI’s role in revolutionizing software delivery for IT professionals. Participants will explore practical strategies for simplifying application migration and modernization, leading to faster operations and improved team efficiency. (Virtual)
Understanding Cost of Goods Sold: Improving Profit Margins and Profitability | Start Small Think Big
Enhance your financial expertise with a deep dive into Cost of Goods Sold, learning how to track, calculate, and optimize expenses. Explore practical methods to improve profitability, set realistic sales targets, and manage cash flow effectively, all in an engaging, hands-on environment. (Virtual)
Snacks with RAC | Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis
Learn more about local arts initiatives while enjoying complimentary snacks at this relaxed event space designed for open dialogue. Meet and ask questions of Rac’s passionate employees during this informal meet-up. (In-Person | The City Foundry)
Financial Roadmap: Building Your Startup’s Future | Skandalaris Center
Gain insights into building a robust financial foundation for your startup in this informative session. With Tarek Elhage’s expertise, uncover practical techniques for revenue forecasting and effective expense management essential for entrepreneurial success. (In-Person | Skandalaris Center)
Fast Pitch Networking | PitchSTL
Embark on an exciting evening designed for entrepreneurs and businesses at this unique networking event. Attendees can pitch their ideas or connect with like-minded professionals, fostering valuable relationships while exploring innovative opportunities in a collaborative atmosphere. (In-Person | BMO Bank)
February 27
Balancing Personalization and Privacy | Search Engine Land
Connect with industry experts as they explore key strategies for balancing personalized experiences with compliance in an evolving landscape. Gain insights into progressive profiling and real-time data integration to empower your organization’s first-party data approach. (Virtual)
Lunch & Learn: Social Storytelling for Business | CIC St. Louis
Explore the compelling world of social storytelling in business as you learn effective video strategies to connect with your audience, build trust, and convert viewers into loyal customers. Lunch will be provided to enhance your experience. (In-Person | Cortex’s Square One)
New Loyalty: Delivering on the Promise of Personalization | EMarketer
Dive into the future of brand loyalty with experts who will explore why traditional loyalty strategies fall short. Discover innovative approaches to foster brand affinity through seamless customer experiences and actionable insights that can reshape your strategies.(Virtual)
Feel it, write it. | CreativeMornings
Share in a unique opportunity to delve into personal reflections via guided writing activities. This workshop aims to illuminate how crafting words on paper can mirror one’s feelings and experiences, crafting pathways for newfound insights. (Virtual)
BuildIT @ the Post | TechSTL
Celebrate St. Louis’s vibrant tech community through this unique series that combines thought leadership with local flavors. Guests can expect enlightening talks alongside networking opportunities, making it a must-attend for anyone interested in disruptive ideas in technology. (In-Person | The Post Building)
Founders Lounge | MultiPass Venture Community
Ignite your passion for building connections at this friendly meetup tailored for entrepreneurs at all stages. Unwind with peers, exchange valuable insights, and explore paths toward collaboration in this dynamic networking setting. (In-Person | Aloft St. Louis)
STL Artist Connect Night | Counter Public
Elevate your artistic journey by participating in this vibrant networking event designed specifically for local talent. Attendees can enjoy informal socializing before diving into informative presentations about new initiatives supporting artists across various mediums in St. Louis. (In-Person | Regional Arts Commission at City Foundry)
Transformunity: Transform your Vision into Reality | African Chamber of Commerce, St. Louis
Discover how to translate innovative concepts into successful projects during this collaborative online meeting. Network with fellow visionaries and tap into proven methodologies designed to elevate your ideas and propel them forward in the marketplace. (Virtual)
February 28
Demystifying Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Agriculture Today and in the Future | St. Louis Agribusiness Club
Discover how AI is revolutionizing agronomy by improving efficiency, decision-making, and precision in agriculture. Gain expert knowledge from a seasoned industry professional as you connect with agribusiness leaders and explore the latest advancements in digital tools and software. (In-Person | Helen Fitzgerald’s Irish Grill & Pub)
Agile Accountability: A Leadership Workshop | Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center
Experience the transformative approach of Agile Accountability at this focused workshop. Mike Miles will guide you through strategies to measure success by results while emphasizing strong ownership and clear expectations within teams. (Virtual)
Microbusiness Socials | Neighborhood Innovation Center
Connect with like-minded microbusiness enthusiasts in a space dedicated to networking and growth. This event serves as a platform to track your progress while gaining inspiration and support from others on similar entrepreneurial journeys. (In-Person | Urban Eats)
Bourbon Friday
Embrace an opportunity to network amidst the rich culture of St. Louis startups during this special gathering. Enjoy flavorful bourbons while deepening professional relationships and swapping stories about business journeys in an informal setting on Friday evenings. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
March 1
Musicpreneur | HSSU – The Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Take part in an inspiring event where creativity meets entrepreneurship. This bootcamp guides aspiring artists through real-world skills needed in the music business, fostering connections within a community of like-minded individuals passionate about their craft. (In-Person | The Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship)
Join us on Meetup or Tiktok.
We want to hear about your plans and expectations for the week ahead! Comment below and share your insights. Your input is crucial in strengthening the St. Louis startup, tech, and marketing community. For those with events or important dates to announce, email [email protected].