The week of August 31 – September 6, 2026 marks the transition from summer to fall, and the St. Louis entrepreneurial community is ready to make the most of it. Entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and marketers can find events that set the tone for a productive season ahead. Erik Lutenegger, our Founder, has curated this week’s best events and opportunities covering networking, business development, professional growth, and community connection.
ESO, Accelerator, and Funding Opportunities
Apply Now // Square One (SQ1) Bootcamp | Cortex’s Square One
Ready to move beyond the idea stage? This intensive 10-week accelerator helps entrepreneurs transform early traction into a fundable business through expert-led instruction, hands-on coaching, and practical deliverables like financials, a business model, and a polished pitch deck. (Bootcamp)
Due August 31 // Empower Growth Micro-Grant | Black & Brown Founders
Underrepresented entrepreneurs with demonstrated revenue over the past 12 months can apply for one of four micro-grants designed to help scale, stabilize, or systematize an existing business. Funds can support marketing, technology and automation, website or e-commerce improvements, consultants, hiring support, or expanded production and service delivery. Applicants must provide proof of revenue, explain how the funding will support growth, and complete the assessment, with finalists also submitting a one-minute video pitch. (Grant)
Due September 3 // Founder Framework Fall 2026 Cohort | T-REX
Early-stage founders can build a stronger foundation for growth through this free, competitive 11-week program led by venture capitalist Vikram Lakhwara. In-person sessions at T-REX cover customer discovery, value propositions, business models, market sizing, go-to-market strategy, financial storytelling, and investor readiness, helping participants validate their ideas, refine product-market fit, and develop practical materials for future grants, pitch competitions, and fundraising. (Bootcamp)
Startup, Tech, and Marketing Events
Coming Soon!
Join us on Meetup or Tiktok.
What’s on your agenda as we head into fall? Tell us in the comments! We’re always looking for ways to enhance the St. Louis Startup, Tech, and Marketing Ecosystem, and your voice shapes that work. If you have an event or deadline coming up, email us at [email protected].
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