Join the momentum building in St. Louis! The entrepreneurial, tech, and marketing scenes are converging for an incredible week of events from February 16-22, 2026. Erik Lutenegger, our Founder, has assembled your essential playbook for networking and growth.
ESO, Accelerator, and Funding Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities at LaunchCode
LaunchCode is seeking volunteers for upcoming virtual opportunities supporting data analysis students and early-career technologists. Opportunities include mock interviews, capstone project evaluations, demo day facilitation, and Lunch & Learn speaking engagements on topics like software development, AI, cybersecurity, and professional growth. Volunteers receive guidance and help learners prepare for careers in tech. (Volunteer)
- Data Analysis Mock Interview
- Data Analysis In-Class Project Demos
- Data Analysis Demo Day (Public Event)
- Lunch N Learn Speaking Engagements
Speaking Opportunities with TechSTL
TechSTL is seeking trainers to lead 45-minute, hands-on workshops across two programs: DevLAB and BuildIT. DevLAB focuses on intermediate developers building real portfolio projects with in-demand tools at T-REX, while BuildIT delivers practical AI workshops for small businesses, startups, and nonprofits at CIC @ Cortex, helping teams move from AI experimentation to real-world execution. (Speaking)
Application Open // Small Business Success Program | Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan St. Louis
Built for small businesses ready to level up, this bilingual program blends personalized coaching, expert mentorship, and hands-on workshops to help established, revenue-generating companies grow with confidence. Participants gain practical tools, tailored strategies, and a supportive peer community designed to turn momentum into sustainable, year-over-year growth. (Incubator)
Open February 18 // Arch Grants Competition
This global startup competition awards $75,000 in equity-free funding to early-stage, scalable companies, with an additional $25,000 for those relocating. In exchange for headquartering in St. Louis for one year, founders gain capital, expert evaluation, mentorship, fundraising support, and access to a powerful regional startup ecosystem. (Competition)
Due February 28 // Next Up Missouri | Missouri Business Alert
Missouri’s next wave of builders, founders, and changemakers is getting the spotlight. This statewide recognition celebrates young innovators ages 10–25 who are launching businesses, leading bold initiatives, and solving real problems proving that impact doesn’t wait for adulthood. (Community Award)
Due March 13 // SLU New Venture Accelerator | Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship
Designed for Saint Louis University students and recent alumni, this 14-week accelerator helps founders turn ideas into fundable ventures through hands-on mentorship, customer discovery, and business-building support. Participants may access up to $50,000 in equity-free funding and cap the experience with an investor-facing demo day. (Accelerator)
Due March 20 (Preferred) // Inc 5000
This annual recognition honors the fastest-growing private companies in the United States, highlighting exceptional revenue growth and entrepreneurial success. Honorees gain national visibility through editorial coverage, a permanent company profile, and association with past industry-defining businesses. January 30th is the Early Rate Deadline. (Industry Award)
Startup, Tech, and Marketing Events
February 16
How to realign your business goals before Q2 | Enterprise Nation
Embark on a transformative experience designed for small business owners, offering insights into crafting the right environment for success, prioritizing essential goals, and developing straightforward plans that stick beyond initial intentions. (Virtual)
Value Proposition Canvas | Business & IP Centre Liverpool City Region
Learn about a powerful business tool used globally by startups and leading firms alike. This brief online webinar offers insight into how to craft clear customer profiles and deliver compelling value propositions rapidly and effectively. (Virtual)
Digital Marketing Basics | SCORE St. Louis
Connect with knowledgeable mentors in an engaging session covering a wide range of digital marketing methods—from Facebook advertising to content marketing—equipping you with insights to boost your business presence online. (Virtual)
Building Multi-Agent Workflows with Claude Code | Saint Petersburg AI Collaborative Intelligence Group
Discover how small teams can outperform giants by integrating agile multi-agent systems in your development process, using Claude Code to facilitate seamless collaboration between AI and human experts for faster results. (Virtual)
February 17
February 17-20 // Entrepreneur Week | The Wedge
Absorb a dynamic week filled with workshops and fireside chats designed for entrepreneurs and business owners, focusing on practical strategies to elevate your venture. Bring your tools and ideas to engage deeply and drive your business towards significant growth. (In-Person | The Wedge)
February 17-20 // National Entrepreneurship Week | NACCE
Take in inspiring discussions on navigating change with agility during this National Entrepreneurship Week series. Sessions offer insights from experienced college presidents and successful entrepreneurs focused on using entrepreneurial thinking to empower students and staff through transformation. (Virtual)
Architecting AI for efficiency: Strategies to scale and optimise | Google Cloud
Discover key tactics in developing efficient AI solutions by focusing on architectural strategies that enable smooth scaling. Participants will gain knowledge of how to optimize processes to enhance system performance across various applications. (Virtual)
Progress from Junior Developer to 10x Senior | DataCamp
Level up your coding career with actionable strategies for progressing from a junior developer to a high-impact senior role, covering productivity techniques, technical growth, and building professional influence across your organization. (Virtual)
Can You Trust AI for Brand Decisions? | Content Marketing Institute
Dive into a live discussion on balancing AI-generated insights with quantitative validation for effective marketing strategies. Learn from real-world examples how AI can accelerate decision-making without compromising trust and business accountability. (Virtual)
How to Get Your Entire To-Do List Done at Superhuman Speed | Network After Work
Join professionals for a free 90-minute event exploring the secrets of superhuman work speeds through AI mastery. This experience covers cognitive triggers, workflow design, and mental strategies that enable faster task completion and superior deliverables. (Virtual)
Leading AI Products: Speed and Orchestration | YouTube Group PM | Product School
Elevate your product management approach by embracing the orchestrator mindset. Discover how to compress discovery-to-delivery loops using AI, focus on outcomes over outputs, and implement governance frameworks that ensure quality without slowing innovation. (Virtual)
Founder’s Guide to AI: Working with AI as Your Partner | Founder Institute
Immerse yourself in a concise 90-minute workshop that explains why most AI efforts fail and offers solutions for founders seeking productive collaboration with AI. (Virtual)
Money Reset 2026 | The Biz Spot Community
Explore a transformative financial session designed for entrepreneurs and professionals eager to reset money habits and strengthen their wallets. This in-person event offers practical strategies, community connection, and clarity to start the year with confidence. (In-Person | The 89th Collective)
Introverted Women Entrepreneurs Connecting + Community Open House | Building Her Dream
Thrive in a welcoming space designed exclusively for introverted women entrepreneurs seeking genuine connections and meaningful conversations beyond typical networking pressures. Engage in one-on-one and small-group breakout sessions focused on authentic relationship-building and collaborative opportunities. (Virtual)
February 18
PitchSTL
Witness aspiring entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas in a “warm fuzzy shark tank” Shark Tank environment for early-stage startups to practice investor pitches. (In-Person | Northside Economic Empowerment Center)
How to Write Effectively for Online Audiences in 2026 | Digital Marketing Institute
Venture into the art of crafting compelling web content with insights on the latest consumption habits, interactive exercises on AI versus human copy, and methods to boost conversion rates. (Virtual)
The Why of AI: Uncovering Cause and Effect in Observational Data | AI for Good (UN/ITU)
Dive deep into the pursuit of unraveling why data behaves as it does through cause-and-effect analysis. Learn about contemporary approaches that enable AI to justify its decisions using causal reasoning, benefiting diverse fields such as health and economics. (Virtual)
Capability Statement Lab: Craft a Powerful One-Pager | NYC Department of Small Business Services
Enhance your ability to present your services by participating in an interactive workshop focused on the essential elements of effective capability statements, including content creation, formatting best practices, and aligning verbal pitches with documents. (Virtual)
The Current State of WordPress SEO: Insights from Experts | WP Legends
Kickstart your understanding of modern SEO with insights from founders and specialists at Marketgoo, Yoast, and WPOptic. This vibrant discussion dives into what truly drives rankings for WordPress sites through real-world-tested strategies and performance-optimization advice. (Virtual)
Adobe On AI: Ethics and the Evolution of AI Governance with Agents | Adobe
Embrace the evolution of agentic AI with this informative webinar series that highlights the foundations of responsible AI. Gain insights on enhancing personalization, maintaining creative intent in campaigns, and adopting enterprise-level innovations shaping 2026 experiences. (Virtual)
Turn Your Brand Into 30-60 Days of Content Using AI | Connect Video
Partake in an insightful hands-on session where experts guide you through creating a messaging system and content engine using AI tools. Develop hooks, captions, scripts, and leave with a comprehensive plan for consistent brand engagement. (In-Person | Laquinta Inn, Maryland Heights)
Preparing for Financial Emergencies with BMO Bank | CIC St. Louis
Embark on a practical workshop with the CIC community and BMO Bank that breaks down clear strategies for managing sudden financial setbacks, offering real-world knowledge beneficial for both individuals and entrepreneurs. (In-Person | The Showroom at CIC St. Louis – 20 S Sarah)
Four Signs Your Data Is (Actually) Ready for AI | Data Science Connect
Transform your perspective on AI readiness by examining the data foundations that quietly determine success or failure. Drawing on enterprise adoption trends observed by Google Cloud and Striim, the session highlights practical benchmarks for trustworthy, production-ready intelligence. (Virtual)
Brand Protection and Trademark 101: Legal Basics for Small Businesses | Start Small Think Big
Gain foundational knowledge on protecting your brand through trademarks and intellectual property law. This session covers the legal essentials every small business owner should understand to safeguard their name, logo, and competitive identity. (Virtual)
Chris Guillebeau on Time Anxiety: Let Go of the Pressure to Do It All | NY Public Library, Thomas Yoseloff Business Center
Join bestselling author Chris Guillebeau as he explores how unrealistic expectations create chronic time stress. This event offers insights on breaking free from urgency, embracing priorities, and living more sustainably in your professional and creative endeavors. (Virtual)
Geospatial User Group: A Complete Idiot’s Guide to Drone Mapping | T-REX
Engage with the latest in drone mapping as Chuck Wivell of ACME Geospatial shares insights on UAV operations, pilot licensing, and business opportunities, including vehicle demonstrations to inspire your aerial mapping journey. (In-Person | T-REX)
Build & Protect: Small Business Protection & Opportunity Overview | Porscha Anderson
Be part of an empowering event where small-business protection is demystified, covering key elements such as legal agreements, intellectual property rights, and financial support systems to expand earning potential. (In-Person | CIC St. Louis – 20 S Sarah St.)
The Journey at 21c: Energy Management, Not Hustle | 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis
Soak up insights from a grounded conversation about exchanging hustle for sustainable rhythms, emphasizing how managing energy supports long-term health and counters the pressures of productivity culture. (In-Person | 21c Museum Hotel St Louis)
Assess Your Government Contracting Readiness | St. Louis County Library
Elevate your small business knowledge with strategic insights into selling goods and services to governments. This event offers dual-format participation, emphasizing essential vendor readiness within a risk-sensitive environment. (In-Person | Clark Family Branch)
February 19
Coffee Connections – Strategic Planning & Goal Setting for the Year | SMPS St. Louis
Experience a vibrant gathering where participants delve into the essentials of strategic planning, gaining practical tools and actionable steps to set meaningful objectives for the year ahead. (In-Person | Coma Coffee)
Gartner’s Guide to Identifying “Top” AI Use Cases, Funding and Measuring Value | Gartner
Gain insight into aligning AI strategy with measurable business results through a practical, enterprise-focused approach. Attendees explore structured prioritization models, financial accountability through AI FinOps, executive alignment techniques, and scalable governance practices designed to maximize long-term value from AI investments. (Virtual)
The Magic of Creativity: Rediscovering Wonder in Your Work | AMA Saint Louis
Unite with innovative marketers as they explore creative approaches that prioritize emotional connections and experimentation. Gain perspectives on overcoming perfectionism while developing impactful brand experiences that resonate deeply in today’s crowded marketing environment. (In-Person | The Magic House)
AI-Powered Vision Inspection: The Future of Quality in Manufacturing | Association for Advancing Automation
Explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing quality inspection in manufacturing, with insights into vision-based systems that detect defects faster and more accurately than traditional methods. (Virtual)
Driving Fund Decisions with Visual Accounting | Carta
Experience a new way to interpret fund performance as executives from Carta unveil enhancements that convert general ledger data into a responsive visual interface. The session traces valuation ripple effects, clarifies return drivers, and connects cap tables with fund accounting for deeper transparency. (Virtual)
Thrivent Thursday: Credit 101 for Entrepreneurs | The Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Thrive by building your knowledge on personal versus business credit and how they impact your ventures. This workshop offers actionable tips on maintaining strong credit profiles to unlock funding and propel long-term growth. (In-Person | Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship)
The Nuts and Bolts of a Sales and MarComm Strategy | Skandalaris Center
Understand how to bridge the gap between your concept and market execution by mastering the fundamentals of sales and marketing strategies. Learn from expert insights on lead generation, messaging, and operational alignment. (In-Person | Skandalaris Center)
MAC Business Development Group Happy Hour
Delight in an engaging networking experience with the MAC Business Development Group at this lively happy hour. Attendees can build new professional connections and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere conducive to business growth and social interaction. (In-Person | Missouri Athletic Club)
Founders Lounge Global | Powered by Metis Analytics
Connect with fellow founders and venture-minded professionals at this global networking meetup to foster cross-industry collaboration and share insights within the St. Louis startup ecosystem. (In-Person | Spark Coworking – St. Louis)
Selenium Grid: End-to-End Testing of Django Web Apps | PySTL
Venture into the world of automated UI testing as this event covers essential techniques with Selenium Grid. Learn to manage browser operations, authentication challenges, and state management while ensuring enterprise software behaves correctly. (In-Person | TechArtista CWE)
February DC314 Event | St. Louis 2600 + DC314
Admire the collaborative spirit where knowledge sharing intersects with hacker culture. Experience insights from industry expert Chris Roberts followed by an opportunity to test your skills through a unique audio transmission challenge using tools like minimodem and Sonic Visualiser. (In-Person | OddiTeas)
American Advertising Awards Show 2026 | AAF Ad Club St. Louis
Join us for a swanky night at The Sheldon, featuring an exciting lineup of cocktails, networking, and an engaging awards presentation honoring creative achievements in advertising. The event promises four hours filled with celebration and distinction. (In-Person | The Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries)
Transformative Revenue Circle | Limitless Life Media
Experience an energizing session where growth-minded entrepreneurs connect and uncover practical systems that replace overwhelm with automation. Through guided phases covering bottlenecks, lead capture, streamlined follow-up, and leadership focus, participants explore a clear framework built to scale revenue efficiently and sustainably. (In-Person | The Heights)
Creative Wellness: Recognition & Rebalancing | CreativeMornings
Enjoy a holistic exploration of your creative life to identify strengths and areas needing support. This guided session encourages reflection and helps prioritize steps to rebalance and nourish creativity for greater personal fulfillment. (Virtual)
Social Thursdays | Kre8Spaces
Soak up the vibrant energy of this exciting monthly event, where you can unwind, socialize, and connect with like-minded individuals. The perfect opportunity to relax, mingle, and create memorable experiences in a welcoming setting. (In-Person | The Kre8 Place)
February 20
CreativeMornings St. Louis | Presenters: Hilda Andres and Jessica Mannisi
Gain inspiration from two seasoned arts professionals as they discuss community-driven art initiatives at the Foundry Art Centre. Following heartfelt talks, guests explore studio spaces that breathe life into local creativity during this engaging morning session. (In-Person | Foundry Art Centre)
Wavelength: Staying the Same, On Purpose | Filament
Experience an engaging dialogue about the power of deliberate permanence, where speakers and participants explore how staying the same by design can lead to meaningful growth and self-awareness. (In-Person | Filament)
How to Tell If You Have a Winning Business Idea | Olin Business School
Explore the journey from raw concept to credible opportunity alongside Professor Doug Villhard, who reveals how experienced investors pressure-test ideas before they scale. Practical tools, real startup lessons, and thoughtful AI integration combine to transform vague inspiration into validated direction. (Virtual)
Impact Investing Symposium | Washington University
Ignite your passion for ethical investing by joining dynamic discussions, workshops, and networking sessions centered on creating meaningful change through impactful investment initiatives in the region. (In-Person | Knight Hall’s Emerson Auditorium & Frick Forum)
Bourbon Friday | Sponsored by Tenacity
Attend an exciting event that blends entrepreneurial networking with the enjoyment of fine bourbon, giving attendees an opportunity to mingle, exchange ideas, and explore unique bourbon flavors. (In-Person | TechArtista CWE)
This Must Be The Place: Pop Up Exhibit | Loutopia
Enjoy an immersive showcase celebrating collective creativity, featuring art born from local dialogues about shared futures. This week-long pop-up event offers interactive opportunities alongside diverse artworks, inviting attendees to connect and engage in a spirited communal experience. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
Anything But A Business Card | Warm Pages
Uncover an innovative networking experience where personality matters more than pitches. This gathering encourages attendees to bring an item that tells their story, participate in meaningful discussions led by career influencers, and cultivate relationships in a relaxed setting with refreshments. (In-Person | A Royal Event)
February 21
Culture and Commerce Black History Vendor Fair | African Chamber of Commerce, St. Louis / HSSU Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Unveil the brilliance of Black entrepreneurship at this vibrant vendor fair featuring a rich array of products from local businesses. Enjoy engaging talks from influential figures that emphasize cultural pride and celebrate ongoing contributions to commerce and innovation. (In-Person | Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship)
Join us on Meetup or Tiktok.
Let us know what’s driving you this week! We’re also focused on driving the St. Louis Startup, Tech, and Marketing Ecosystem forward and need your ideas. Share them in the comments, and send any event info to [email protected].
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