St. Louis is abuzz with opportunity! Entrepreneurs, tech aficionados, and marketing pros won’t want to miss the action-packed week of March 17-23, 2025. Our Founder, Erik Lutenegger, has compiled a comprehensive guide to keep you in the loop and ahead of the curve.
Accelerator, Funding, and ESO 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)
Due March 23 // Fire Awards 2025 | St. Louis Business Journal
The Fire Awards are St. Louis Inno’s premier recognition program, honoring the companies and organizations setting the local innovation economy ablaze. There are two different award, one for regular companies and another for Lifetime Achievement. (Community Awards)
Due March 31 // Arch Grants
This startup competition offers $75,000 equity-free grants to scalable, job-creating businesses, with an extra $25,000 for those relocating to St. Louis. Participants commit to at least one year in the city and gain access to funding, mentorship, and a startup ecosystem to support business growth. (Grant)
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)
Due May 1 // Emerging Artists as Entrepreneurs | St. Louis Art Fair
This two-year program helps emerging artists develop business skills, covering pricing, selling, display, and copyright laws. Participants apprentice with professional artists, attend seminars, and later showcase their work at a top art fair. The program includes portfolio reviews, financial consulting, and eligibility for a cash award.
(Incubator)
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.
Startup, Marketing, and Tech Events
March 17
No events
March 18
March 18-20 // Adobe Summit
Uncover the future of digital transformation as you participate in sessions led by top executives from leading brands. Engage in discussions about creativity and personalized marketing and explore comprehensive training options at the conference. (Virtual)
Ability Summit | Microsoft
Immerse yourself in a unique digital experience where accessibility and empowerment take center stage. Engage with industry leaders, explore insightful presentations, and contribute to empowering every individual and organization. This event promises an educational journey filled with innovative ideas. (Virtual)
Understanding the current cyber threat landscape | Google Cloud
Embrace an insightful discussion addressing the contemporary cyber threat landscape. Participants will delve into emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and strategies to safeguard digital environments, equipping themselves with knowledge vital for navigating today’s technological challenges. (Virtual)
The difference between a mission and a vision statement | Enterprise Nation
Soak up valuable insights during this informative session focused on mission versus vision statements. With over 25 years of experience, Anne Beth Jordan will share her expertise on crafting impactful guiding principles tailored for your business needs. (Virtual)
Kick off your Marketing Plan in an hour with (ethical) AI | CreativeMornings
Ignite your creativity in this engaging virtual workshop, where you’ll learn to orchestrate an effective marketing strategy with the help of AI tools. Participants will be able to explore various resources to enhance their marketing efforts. (Virtual)
Women of Tech Luncheon: Owning the Power of the Pivot | TechSTL
Venture into an atmosphere where innovation meets inspiration. This luncheon offers a delightful meal and insights from experts on how to turn professional pivots into powerful advantages—perfect for women looking to redefine their careers in tech. (In-Person | Rung for Women)
SEO Beyond Just the Ten Blue Links! | MARTECH
Transform your approach to organic visibility as you learn from an authority in digital marketing. This session will equip you with cutting-edge tactics to secure significant search placements, boost engagement, and drive conversions through effective strategies. (Virtual)
Transform Your Business Into a 24/7 Sales Machine | Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center
Enhance your business acumen by discovering methods to establish a predictable revenue stream during this engaging online event. Under the guidance of Averri Liggins, participants will explore ways to avoid burnout while achieving sustainable growth through strategic automation. (Virtual)
Fixing the Funnel: Actionable Insights from 1,000+ Google and Meta Geo Tests | EMARKETER
Discover the art of fixing marketing funnels with proven tactics shared by industry leaders. This engaging online discussion will equip you with knowledge of spending trends and channel impacts that drive measurable growth in advertising effectiveness. (Virtual)
The Arch City Report Live! | St. Louis Business Journal
Experience the excitement of a live taping of The Arch City Report as industry leaders discuss the intersection of hockey, business, and sports tourism in St. Louis. Enjoy engaging conversations with top executives, plus drinks, appetizers, and networking opportunities in a dynamic setting. (In-Person | Spark Co-working)
DevLAB: Hacking, Building & Learning in St. Louis | TechSTL
Unite with professionals at the forefront of technology in St. Louis. Experience hands-on training sessions featuring AI systems and data management tools that empower participants to enhance their projects and future endeavors. (In-Person | T-REX)
SLU eMentors March Mini Pitch Networking Night | Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship
Join this dynamic event connecting ambitious students with local entrepreneurs. Showcase your innovative business ideas in 60-second pitches, receive valuable feedback, and network with mentors. Elevate your experience with Mini Pitches—no slides, just your best elevator pitch! Pitch signup will be first come first serve the night of the event. Engage with like-minded peers and successful entrepreneurs from the STL community. Food and drinks will be provided. (In-Person | DuBourg Hall)
Applied Leadership Pathways March Session: Corporate Leadership Panel & Networking Session | Kirkwood Public Library
During an engaging panel discussion, take in insightful dialogues about leadership dynamics within the corporate sphere. Following this thought-provoking session, attendees are invited to network, exchanging innovative ideas that benefit St. Louis’s future. (In-Person | Kirkwood Public Library)
Introverted Women Entrepreneurs & Professionals Connecting | Building Her Dream
Dive into a space crafted explicitly for introverted women who seek deeper connections without the pressure often present in traditional settings. The event fosters relaxed socializing through curated conversations, ensuring everyone feels empowered and inspired. (Virtual)
March 19
PitchSTL
Embark on a journey where St. Louis startups present innovative ideas in a supportive environment. Each week offers an opportunity for emerging entrepreneurs to showcase their ventures and receive constructive feedback from an engaged audience. (In-Person | Cortex’s Square One)
Brewed Connections | HSSU – Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Connect with the startup community over coffee at this unique gathering, where entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profits will discover enriching programs and collaborative opportunities. Engage in meaningful conversations that can spark future ventures. (In-Person | Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship)
Marketing Transformation in the Age of AI – AI-first campaign management: Transforming conversational data into high-impact marketing | Sprinklr and AMA
Transform your marketing strategy by diving deep into cutting-edge AI applications. Participants will explore best practices in brand intelligence and decision-making processes that harness data for significant growth opportunities and industry leadership. (Virtual)
For the Women | CIC St. Louis
Gain valuable insights during a unique workshop centered around your brand. Then, revel in an engaging community social experience that allows you to connect with local women-owned businesses while enjoying drinks and active entertainment throughout the afternoon. (In-Person | Cortex at 4240 Duncan)
What is the DNA of an Entrepreneur? Insights from 15 Years of Research | Founder Institute
Elevate your understanding of entrepreneurship through analyses drawn from substantial data collections. The interactive format lets participants discover essential traits contributing to startup success while gaining actionable advice. (Virtual)
Win B2B Mindshare Through Strategic Influencer Partnerships | MarketingProfs & Goldcast
Enjoy a deep dive into influencer marketing, where experts will reveal methods to expand your brand’s reach effectively. You’ll uncover techniques for building genuine relationships and leveraging video content to resonate with B2B buyers. (Virtual)
The M&A Process: How Investment Bankers Sell Businesses | Enterprise University
Understand the investment banking strategies behind successful business sales. Learn how potential buyers assess value, the factors that impact pricing, and the process of negotiating agreements. Gain insights into financial optimization techniques and tax-efficient strategies to ensure a smooth and profitable transaction. (Virtual)
Master the Art of Pitching Startups | Skandalaris Center
Uncover the secrets behind successful startup pitches at this specialized workshop. Participants will collaborate with Pierre Paul to hone their storytelling abilities, ensuring they leave equipped with the practical skills necessary for making memorable impressions. (In-Person | Skandalaris Center)
The Journey at 21c: The Power of Mindfulness | 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis
Partake in a thought-provoking event that examines the nuances of love, relationships, and self-care through mindfulness. This gathering promises valuable insights, encouraging attendees to prioritize their emotional health as they navigate connections. (In-Person | 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis)
March 20
STL Marketing Mashup | SMPS St. Louis, AMA St. Louis, AAF STL AD Club, Social Media Club STL, Urban League of Metropolitan Saint Louis, Nonprofit Marketers Network STL, and 314 Digital
Experience an exclusive marketing mashup that brings together experts from diverse fields to exchange ideas and explore emerging trends. A panel of top professionals will share insights into 2025’s most impactful strategies, followed by an evening of networking, great conversations, and new connections over drinks and appetizers. (In-Person | Yemanja Brasil)
MAC Business Development Group Meeting | Missouri Athletic Club
Revel in a unique opportunity to connect with other professionals while gaining invaluable knowledge from Dr. Amy Narishkin’s presentation focused on cultural intelligence. This essential skill can dramatically improve team interactions and success. (In-Person | Missouri Athletic Club)
Power Lunch and Learn: Networking in the Digital Age | Olin Business School
Take in expert perspectives on networking in today’s digital landscape. A panel of industry leaders will discuss how to cultivate meaningful connections, leverage virtual tools, and create opportunities for career advancement. Gain practical insights to thrive in an increasingly connected professional world. (Virtual)
Thrive Thursday @ NCIC – Professional Networking Event | NCIC
Participate in a dynamic afternoon of networking at the North County Innovation Center, where you’ll connect with like-minded professionals. Engage with the theme of Hidden Figures and explore potential collaborations over a provided lunch. (In-Person | North County Innovation Center)
2025 Multicultural Job Fair | Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro St. Louis
Experience a vibrant atmosphere at the job fair, where bilingual and culturally diverse job seekers can connect with top employers like AT&T and BJC HealthCare. Engage in personalized job matching and pre-scheduled interviews aimed at creating meaningful opportunities. (In-Person | LiUNA Event Center)
Business Entities for Creatives | Freelancers Union
Transform your understanding of freelancing through knowledge of business entities. This dynamic online workshop offers essential information for creatives seeking to establish themselves responsibly while navigating the complexities of corporate structures. (Virtual)
Profit-Boosting Pricing Strategies for Small Businesses | Start Small Think Big
Immerse yourself in a live recording of The Arch City Report as top industry voices break down the business side of hockey in St. Louis. Learn about upcoming sports tourism events and the economics of the game while networking over drinks and appetizers. (Virtual)
St. Louis Women in Science – Industry Discussion on Leadership | TechSTL
Participate in an engaging discussion on leadership with influential women scientists from St. Louis during Women’s History Month. This two-hour event will offer insights and inspiration as local leaders share their experiences in medicine, biotechnology, and agriculture. (In-Person | McDonnell Medical Science Building (WashU School of Medicine))
Innovators Hour with CareSignal | Biogenerator
Network with industry leaders at this engaging event featuring presentations focused on the latest advancements in healthcare technology. Participants can interact with innovators and discuss groundbreaking solutions in a collaborative environment. (In-Person | BioSTL Building)
Founders Lounge | Multipass Ventures
Soak up an invigorating evening among like-minded entrepreneurs as you connect and share experiences in a relaxed setting. This gathering fosters potential collaborations and inspires innovative ideas that can propel your startup journey forward. (In-Person | Aloft)
March 21
Bright & Early: Jon Morgan | STL.org
Embark on a morning filled with insights and innovation at a community-focused lecture series designed for creatives. With complimentary coffee, attendees will gain valuable knowledge from seasoned professionals like Jon Morgan. (In-Person | STL.org)
Bourbon Friday
Revel in an evening that combines business networking with the art of bourbon tasting. Engage with fellow innovators, sharing valuable insights while sipping on crafted creations amidst the dynamic backdrop of St. Louis’s thriving startup scene. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
March 22
2025 Mayoral Candidate Forum | Downtown Neighborhood Association
Take in a dynamic discussion as mayoral candidates outline their strategies for downtown revitalization and its connection to citywide progress. From business investment and transportation to public safety and livability, this forum sheds light on the policies that could define the city’s next chapter. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
March 23
St. Louis Code and Coffee
Marvel at the fusion of productivity and camaraderie as attendees gather for a laid-back co-working day dedicated to technology. Share your goals with others while gaining insights that could elevate your projects in a cooperative network. (In-Person | TechArtista UCity)
The Noticed Arts Expo | Graciously Noticed
Celebrate the rich tapestry of creativity at this annual expo where artistic expression meets entrepreneurial flair. From visual exhibits to live music, this event promises an immersive experience that highlights the best of Saint Louis’ arts scene (In-Person | The Post Building)
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Share your anticipation for the upcoming opportunities in the comments section! Your enthusiasm helps shape the future of the St. Louis startup, tech, and marketing landscape. If you have an event or deadline to promote, don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected].