Calling all St. Louis changemakers! From April 28 to May 4, immerse yourself in a week tailored for entrepreneurs, tech pioneers, and marketing specialists. Our Founder, Erik Lutenegger, has crafted a comprehensive guide to the events that will spark your innovation and expand your network.
ESO, Funding, and Accelerator 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 // Square Ignite | Cortex Square One
This four-week program helps early-stage entrepreneurs validate 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 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)
Due May 6 // Idea Fund & Proof of Concept | Missouri Technology Corporation
A venture capital initiative uses public funding to spur economic growth by investing in Missouri-based tech startups. It offers matching equity or convertible debt investments at pre-seed, seed, and growth stages, requiring a 1:1 private co-investment. The initiative has invested over $53 million in startups and created thousands of jobs. (Funding)
Due May 14 // 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 May 15 // Most Influential Business Women Awards 2025 | St. Louis Business Journal
An annual recognition program honors 25 outstanding women in business who demonstrate exceptional career achievements and a significant impact on their communities. Nominees are evaluated based on professional success, leadership, and measurable accomplishments. Selected honorees will be featured in a special section by a local business publication and chosen through an independent editorial review. (Community Award)
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, Tech and Marketing Events
April 28
PIVOT: Level Up with Rung | Rung for Women
Take part in an enriching event filled with valuable discussions led by women leaders excelling in Technology and Manufacturing. Learn practical strategies to advance your career journey with Rung’s support. (In-Person | Rung for Women)
How to Come Up with Great Startup Ideas | Founder Institute
Attend an insightful online gathering where aspiring entrepreneurs can uncover effective methods for generating startup ideas. The framework shared by Jonathan Greechan will prepare participants to overcome obstacles, pitch effectively, and collaborate on new ventures. (Virtual)
April 29
April 29-30 // Virtual Conference: Marketing in Higher Education | American Marketing Association
Engage with industry experts at this free virtual conference, where participants will explore innovative marketing strategies designed specifically for higher education institutions. Gain essential tools to boost recruitment and enhance engagement amidst rising competition for student enrollment. (Virtual)
Amplify your presence | Enterprise Nation
Ignite your potential by joining this one-hour webinar where Sue Keogh shares her expertise on boosting visibility through LinkedIn and networking. Discover good habits, tools, and processes that can transform how you present yourself online. (Virtual)
B2B All-Stars | MarketingProfs
Discover new techniques for success at this free training event tailored for B2B marketers. With presentations on topics ranging from AI-driven strategies to buyer psychology, participants will gain fresh perspectives on optimizing their campaigns. (Virtual)
What Tariffs, Antitrust Legislation, and More Mean for Marketers and Advertisers | EMARKETER
Venture into an insightful live webinar that dissects the effects of tariffs and antitrust legislation on marketers. Engaging analysts will discuss critical trends in ad spending, helping you strategize for a changing digital landscape. (Virtual)
Utilizing the Library for Business Research | SCORE – St. Louis Bi-State Region
Gain valuable insights on leveraging library resources for business development during an informative session specifically designed for entrepreneurs. This engaging online meeting will reveal how to effectively utilize local libraries to enhance your market research strategies. (Virtual)
Future-Proof Your Content Strategy with the Right CMS | Martech
Revel in expert guidance during this webinar focused on optimizing your content strategy through the right CMS. Discover must-have features and learn how to navigate compliance and integration hurdles while preparing for future growth. (Virtual)
April Virtual Meet & Greet | Techstars
Immerse yourself in the world of startup development through an engaging virtual meetup. Gain firsthand knowledge about Techstars’ unique mentorship opportunities and connect directly with experts eager to support your entrepreneurial journey. (Virtual)
The AI BOFU Strategy That Drove a 600% Conversion Lift | Moz
Participate in a compelling live webinar where industry experts delve into BOFU strategies enhanced by AI. Learn how breaking down internal silos can dramatically increase conversion rates, showcasing the power of collaboration and insightful keyword research. (Virtual)
Inspire, Solve and Succeed with Emotional Intelligence | Enterprise University
Enhance your ability to lead with confidence by learning to harness emotions for greater impact. This engaging virtual course focuses on identifying blind spots, applying emotional insights to strengthen relationships, and solving complex challenges in both personal and professional environments. (Virtual)
Optimize Cash Flow for Your Small Business | Start Small Think Big
Gain practical tools and insights during a dynamic webinar tailored for small business owners. Learn to estimate future cash needs, read cash flow statements with confidence, and implement smart strategies that safeguard and enhance your business’s financial future. (Virtual)
Sustainability Lab: St. Louis Regional Climate Action Plan | OneSTL
Dive deep into sustainability efforts by engaging with community members at the lab dedicated to developing the Regional Climate Action Plan. This event emphasizes collaboration on emission reduction strategies tailored to improve livability and economic resilience. (In-Person | T-REX)
Network-A-Thon
Understand the art of networking as multiple CONNECTORS enhance the experience by introducing you to potential partners and clients. This engaging event fosters genuine interactions, ensuring that each moment spent leads toward meaningful growth opportunities. (In-Person | Dave & Buster’s)
Grant Writing Mastery Workshop | Michelle Robinson
Kickstart your journey into the world of grant writing at this detailed workshop, where experts guide you through practical applications. Participants will leave equipped not just with knowledge, but also with the ability to write compelling grant proposals. (In-Person)
Art vs. Generative AI | Saint Louis Generative AI Lab
Thrive in a collaborative artistic brainstorming session aimed at conceptualizing innovative projects merging traditional artistry with generative AI, inviting everyone to contribute ideas and explore new creative horizons together. (In-Person | Slalom Consulting)
Her Quiet Strategy Room For Introverted Women Entrepreneurs & Professionals | Building Her Dream
Absorb valuable insights during this empowering session for introverted female entrepreneurs. The event offers much-needed support through dialogue, expert coaching sessions, and peer collaboration, helping you move forward confidently in pursuit of your goals. (Virtual)
April 30
Gateway to Innovation
Revel in a unique opportunity that blends education and networking for local IT practitioners. Attendees will engage with prominent speakers like Jim Knight, who will share invaluable insights on leadership and service excellence tailored for today’s fast-paced business landscape. (In-Person | America’s Center)
PitchSTL | Presenter: Korede Inc. & Younique Strands
Join a vibrant community where St. Louis startups pitch their ideas in a supportive environment. With opportunities for feedback and improvement, entrepreneurs can showcase their innovative concepts every Wednesday morning and connect with valuable resources. (In-Person | Cortex @ 20 S Sarah)
Top Practices to Boost Your Business with AI & Digital Tools | WE NYC
Uncover cutting-edge techniques in an engaging workshop designed for entrepreneurs looking to optimize their business practices. This session will provide valuable insights into utilizing AI tools, fostering sustainable growth, and outperforming larger competitors in the industry. (Virtual)
GRIT April Panel Luncheon | Jennifer Bardot, G.R.I.T Founder
Elevate your network while being inspired by courageous stories of perseverance at this noteworthy panel event. Alongside fellow attendees, dive deep into discussions surrounding leadership and life’s challenges, all accompanied by delicious food set in an inviting atmosphere. (In-Person | The Lodge Des Peres)
LEVEL UP: The LinkedIn Glow Up: How to Create a Profile That Gets Noticed | CreativeMornings
Absorb practical tips for transforming your LinkedIn profile into a standout asset during this interactive virtual workshop. Participants will learn how to enhance their visuals and optimize their content, enabling them to effectively attract future employers and clients. (Virtual)
AI for Marketing: Practical Strategies for Your Business presented by the SBDC: National Small Business Week | Kirkwood Public Library
Connect with fellow entrepreneurs who are seeking to harness the potential of AI in marketing. This interactive session focuses on real-life applications of AI tools for creating compelling content, driving social media engagement, and enhancing customer relationships through data-driven insights. (In-Person | Kirkwood Public Library)
Grants for R&D – SBIR and STTR | NY Public Library, Thomas Yoseloff Business
Enhance your understanding of vital funding opportunities at this online event, where experts will guide you through the SBIR and STTR grants. Gain insights into proposal writing, eligibility requirements, and key federal agency roles in supporting your research initiatives. (Virtual)
AI Sales Secrets: Close Faster, Network Smarter, Win Bigger | Network After Work
Soak up invaluable insights into modern selling from industry leaders. This event will explore streamlined marketing systems and powerful networking tactics that can elevate your business connections, helping you close deals faster than ever before. (Virtual)
May 1
Advance STL: The advanced manufacturing opportunity in St. Louis | St. Louis Business Journal
Explore the surge of investment making St. Louis a national center for advanced manufacturing during an in-person panel at the Saint Louis Zoo. Industry leaders will share insights on the region’s advantages, key projects, and the future of high-tech production. (In-Person | Saint Louis Zoo)
TRIADS IdeaBounce®
Be part of an engaging luncheon where collaboration meets innovation, featuring a mini-workshop with dynamic talks by WashU faculty. Deliver your own two-minute pitch and network with community partners to bring your research ideas to life. (In-Person | WashU: Clark-Fox Forum)
May 1-2 // Bridging Data Divides: Collaborating for Impact | WashU – The Center for Social Development
Enjoy enlightening talks from renowned experts at this engaging summit where the intersection of data practice and community progress takes center stage. The focus is on uniting voices and experiences to foster effective collaboration. (In-Person | WashU: Hillman Hall)
May TGI GeoAI Working Group Meeting | Taylor Geospatial Institute
Venture into the world of GeoAI where industry leaders present their innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. This event invites contributions from academia, research, and industry alike for diverse perspectives on urgent issues. (Virtual)
Founders Lounge Global | Multipass Ventures
Connect with a vibrant community of entrepreneurs at an evening designed to inspire, relax, and foster meaningful relationships. Founders Lounge offers a welcoming atmosphere for sharing ideas, exploring collaborations, and learning from experienced startup leaders. (In-Person | Spark Coworking)
May 2
M365 Community Days – Saint Louis
Uncover the latest trends and best practices in a collaborative environment. By attending, you’ll gain valuable knowledge from industry experts while networking with peers who share similar interests and ambitions. (In-Person | Microsoft Technology Center)
New Skills for Work/SuperCollider: Innovation & Creativity | Filament
Elevate your ability to foster innovation with a session that blends imagination with action. Participants will learn how to embed creative practices into daily routines, embrace experimentation, and transform visionary ideas into real-world outcomes. (In-Person | Filament)
Bourbon Friday // Entrepreneur Networking & Bourbon Tasting
Savor the rich flavors of whiskey while connecting with like-minded individuals at this engaging networking event. The evening provides an exceptional environment for professionals involved in St. Louis’s thriving startup ecosystem to share experiences. (In-Person | Techartista Downtown)
Join us on Meetup or Tiktok.
What opportunities are you most excited about this week? Tell us in the comments! Your insights are shaping the future of St. Louis’ startup, tech, and marketing landscape. For event announcements or important dates, please email [email protected].
