St. Louis is buzzing with potential! From August 5-11, entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and marketing mavens can immerse themselves in a week of growth and connection. Our Founder, Erik Lutenegger, has crafted a comprehensive guide to the city’s most impactful events.
Funding, Accelerator, and ESO Opportunities
Applications Open // Olin StartUp Grants | WashU Olin Entrepreneurship Program
This program offers $25,000 non-dilutive grants to early-stage startups with ties to Washington University or St. Louis. Participants submit a pitch deck, and top startups present to students and venture capitalists. The selection process provides real venture capital experience. Applications are open from August 1 to October 1. (Grant)
Due August 7 // 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 3 programs: 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)
Due August 7 // Proof of Concept | Missouri Technology Corporation
The pilot program supports early-stage Missouri entrepreneurs developing innovative technologies by providing $25,000-$50,000 in equity investments. Companies must have proprietary IP, completed ideation and customer discovery, and secure a matching co-investment. It targets seven key industry areas: Biomedical & Life Sciences, Healthcare Technology & Services, Financial Technology & Services, Software & Data, Energy, Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics. (Funding)
Due August 9 // WEPOWER Business Accelerator
This 10-week accelerator supports Black and Latinx entrepreneurs in St. Louis, focusing on businesses creating living wage jobs. Participants receive bi-weekly coaching, workshops, in-kind professional services, a $5,000 equity-free grant, a wellness stipend, and access to capital. The program begins on September 16 with a kick-off dinner. (Accelerator)
Deadline Extended – August 13 // STL Startup Week Speakers
Apply to speak at STL Startup Week (Nov 11-15, 2024). In one-hour sessions, share your insights on marketing, culture, design, capital, and growth. No sales pitches; focus on engaging, educational content. (Speaking Opportunity)
Due August 23 // Future of Women at Work Grant | StitchCrew
This grant program awards $10,000 to women-led companies innovating in the care economy and future of work sectors. Winners join a community of women entrepreneurs, gain investor introductions, and receive a VEST membership. The grant focuses on areas like childcare, eldercare, flexible workplaces, and talent retention. U.S.-based, women-owned businesses with scalable potential are eligible. (Grant)
Due August 25 // Vision Verde Grant | Hispanic Heritage Foundation
This grant program awards $10,000 to 10 Latinx/Hispanic-owned businesses in the beverage, alcohol service, sales, and hospitality industries. Recipients receive sustainability consultancy from Coctelería Consciente. The initiative promotes environmental impact through education and mentorship. U.S. residents with majority Latino/Hispanic ownership can apply. Applications include virtual training sessions and support for sustainability projects. (Grant)
Due August 31 // Queer to Stay | Human Rights Campaign
This initiative supports LGBTQ+ small businesses, focusing on those owned by people of color, women, and transgender individuals. Grants address financial hardships; this program has awarded over $1 million to over 100 businesses since 2020, providing crucial support and promoting community resilience. (Grant)
Due August 31 // EmpowHer Grants | Boundless Futures Foundation
This grant program supports early-stage women entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations that assist female business owners. Individual entrepreneurs can receive up to $25,000 for businesses addressing social issues, while nonprofits can request up to $30,000. Grants focus on poverty, sustainability, and community building. Applications for individuals are open year-round, reviewed quarterly, and for nonprofits, twice a year. Funding aids business expenses and program support, fostering impactful and sustainable female-led ventures. (Grant)
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.
Entrepreneurship, Tech, and Marketing Events
August 5
YOLO: AI Modeling for Beginners | The GEOINT Hub @ T-REX
Ignite your interest in artificial intelligence with a comprehensive introduction to AI modeling. This online workshop offers valuable insights into the YOLO method, emphasizing its speed and accuracy in real-time object detection, tailored for beginners. (Virtual)
STL Startup World Cup: TAAS / SAAS Semi-Final Competition | TechSTL
Engage with the cutting-edge ideas from St. Louis’ top startups as they battle for a spot in the global tech arena. This is your chance to support entrepreneurial spirit and celebrate our region’s innovative drive in the TaaS/SaaS sectors. (In-Person | The Post Building)
August 6
A Founder’s Guide to LinkedIn | Enterprise Nation
Experience a transformative session tailored for founders, focusing on leveraging LinkedIn to enhance visibility and revenue. Attendees will learn to craft a compelling content strategy, connect with key audiences, and establish themselves as thought leaders. (Virtual)
Unlock Your Core Values: Design a Purpose-Driven Life and Career | CreativeMornings
Participate in an insightful workshop focused on identifying your core values to enhance both your career and personal relationships. Expect engaging exercises that guide you to set values-based goals and support your life’s direction. (Virtual)
Assertive Communication for Entrepreneurs | WE NYC
Explore this engaging online workshop aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs to master assertive communication. Learn essential skills for making impactful sales pitches and building professional networks, while participating in dynamic role-playing exercises that enhance confidence and decision-making abilities. (Virtual)
Pitch Deck Mastery: Essential Elements for Investor Interest | Techstars
Join a transformative digital event designed for startup founders, focusing on the essential elements of crafting effective pitch decks. Gain insights on creating compelling narratives and understanding what investors seek to ignite their interest in your venture. (Virtual)
Elevate Your Entrepreneurial Presence | Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center
Witness a transformative session where Julia Kraft shares her expertise in inspiring trust and engaging audiences effectively. This interactive keynote will arm you with practical strategies to present confidently, adapt under pressure, and motivate others to act on your vision. (Virtual)
August 7
PitchSTL
Engage with local innovators during an interactive platform where startups pitch their visions. The event features presentations followed by detailed discussions, creating an enriching experience that promotes collaboration and development within the St. Louis startup ecosystem. (In-Person | CIC @ S. Sarah)
2024 State of the St. Louis Workforce
Discover insights into the St. Louis workforce at this event, focusing on regional economic trends and the vital role healthcare plays in shaping the local job market. Join experts as they analyze the future of work in our community. (In-Person | St. Louis Community College – Meramec Theatre)
SBA Loans | SCORE – St. Louis Bi-State Region
Gain innovative ideas for marketing your business, advice for successfully applying for an SBA business loan, and guidance on strategically building your business network. (Virtual)
Basic Business Terms 101 | Freelancers Union
Absorb valuable insights into essential business terms through this interactive online workshop. Led by an experienced instructor, you’ll gain clarity on core concepts, improving your ability to navigate business discussions and fostering greater confidence in your professional endeavors. (Virtual)
How to Achieve Product-Market Fit: Insights from Seedstars | Founder Institute
Join this insightful online event to uncover essential strategies for achieving product-market fit. Learn from experts how to align your startup with customer needs, enhance your offering based on feedback, and pave the way for lasting success in the marketplace. (Virtual)
AI + Cloud: The Recipe for Businesses to Scale and Compete | Inc. & Oracle NetSuite
Embark on a journey into the integration of AI and cloud, crucial for modern business success. Gain valuable insights on optimizing processes, overcoming obstacles, and the importance of innovation in achieving sustainable growth amidst fierce competition (Virtual)
How to Get In Front of Your Audience (and Stay There) | Hootsuite
Participate in a transformative learning experience that connects social marketers with valuable insights. This series will focus on actionable strategies to engage audiences and validate the performance of social media efforts in measurable ways. (Virtual)
Skandalaris Summer Expo | Skandalaris Center
Bask in the collective energy at the Skandalaris Summer Expo, featuring presentations from Launchpad startups. Attendees will gain insights into groundbreaking concepts that have developed throughout an immersive summer experience. (In-Person | Crowder Courtyard)
UNA Saint Louis Summer Gathering | United Nations Association of Saint Louis
Dive into an engaging evening where advocates for the Sustainable Development Goals convene. Enjoy light appetizers, connect with passionate individuals, and anticipate the grand celebrations for the UN’s anniversary at this impactful gathering. (In-Person | Vino STL)
August 8
Design Your Business Success | NY Public Library, Thomas Yoseloff Business Center
Witness a transformative approach to achieving your business goals with insights from Dr. Nader Zadi. This event promises to deliver clarity in vision, strategies for mindset design, and practical habits that can propel your business forward. (Virtual)
Embrace the Future of Content Management with a CMS Makeover | MarTech
Explore innovative strategies for enhancing customer and employee experiences through advanced CMS platforms. Industry experts will guide participants in navigating the dynamic landscape of content management, ensuring flexibility in delivering compelling omnichannel interactions. (Virtual)
Social Media Marketing for Small Businesses – Basics and Latest Trends | SCORE
Absorb invaluable insights into social media marketing from industry veteran Patty Ross. Understand the latest trends and best practices, enabling you to elevate your online presence while crafting a tailored strategy for your business’s unique needs. (Virtual)
Networking After Hours: WASH U + BJC Networking Mixer | Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce
Uncover new business opportunities by connecting with representatives from BJC and Washington University. This networking mixer offers insightful talks and a platform for small businesses to explore potential contracts and expand their professional network. (In-Person | Heartland Black Chamber)
Downtown Summer Nights – Olympics Watch Party | Greater St. Louis, Inc.
Enjoy a summer of excitement in Downtown St. Louis with weekly parties at Kiener Plaza. With various themes, from happy hours to performance nights, each event brings community members together to celebrate the season fun and engagingly. Featuring an Olympic Watch Party (In-Person | Keiner Plaza)
Business Banking Workshop: Small Businesses and Financial Emergencies | African Chamber of Commerce, St. Louis
Immerse yourself in an informative workshop where BMO Bank experts will guide small business owners through the complexities of financial emergencies. With parking and refreshments provided, this event fosters learning and networking in a supportive environment. (In-Person | African Chamber of Commerce, St. Louis)
Founders Lounge | MultiPass Venture Community
Entrepreneurs can enjoy an evening fostering relationships, exchanging stories, and gathering insights. It promotes networking, provides opportunities for potential collaborations, and includes inspirational talks from successful entrepreneurs. (In-Person | Aloft St. Louis)
SheCan Connect Sundresses & Shades Networking Soiree | #SheCan Connect
Indulge in an evening of networking where empowerment is at the forefront. Engage with a community of women entrepreneurs, discover new products from vendor booths, and be inspired by a guest speaker who champions career advancement. (In-Person | The Moto Museum)
Social Club Thursdays! | KRe8 Spaces
Delight in Social Club Thursdays, featuring game nights, open mic sessions, and thought-provoking discussions. This event provides a relaxed environment for artists and professionals to mingle, share ideas, and enjoy drinks and snacks. A vibrant evening of creativity and connection awaits. (In-Person | The KRe8 Place)
August 9
International Coworking Day | Spark Coworking – St. Louis
Marvel at the energy of International Coworking Day as you soak up the atmosphere of creativity and collaboration. Experience the benefits of shared workspaces through a free day pass, all while connecting with our vibrant community. (In-Person | Spark Coworking – St. Louis)
Analytics Friday Forum | MarketingProfs
Explore the intricacies of data-driven marketing by connecting with industry experts who will guide you in understanding essential metrics and their implications. Uncover methods to align your strategies with business objectives and prove ROI effectively. (Virtual)
Blues at the Arch Festival | Gateway Arch Foundation
Engage with the soulful sounds of the blues at this vibrant festival, celebrating St. Louis’ rich musical heritage. Enjoy performances from local and national artists, plus interactive family-friendly activities all set against the stunning backdrop of the Gateway Arch. (In-Person | Gateway Arch National Park)
Bourbon Friday @ TechArtista Downtown
It’s Friday, and it’s not Friday without Bourbon Friday. And you can join us at Techartista Downtown for our weekly social gathering celebrating the St. Louis startup scene. Stop by for 3 minutes or 3 hours for more great drinks and better conversations. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
August 10
Food For All Storytelling and Harvesting | Food City
Uncover the essence of community at the Food For All event. Enjoy a morning of storytelling, farm support, and reflection. Harvest crops with mindfulness, guided by Ra, and connect with neighbors in this meaningful, hands-on experience dedicated to unity and sustenance. (In-Person | Good Life Growing)
Office Hours
August 6 // Small Business Legal Clinic | Cortex’s Square One & Legal Services of Eastern Missouri
Meet one-on-one with a business attorney from Legal Services of Eastern Missouri for a free business consultation. (Virtual)
Join us on Meetup or Tiktok.
What’s got you excited this week? Share with us in the comments! Your feedback helps us make the St. Louis startup, tech, and marketing ecosystem even better. If you have an event or important date, don’t hesitate to email us at [email protected].