St. Louis innovation awaits! The week of July 14-20, 2025, is designed to inspire entrepreneurs, tech pioneers, and marketing strategists. Our Founder, Erik Lutenegger, presents a carefully selected guide to events connecting you with the heart of our thriving ecosystem.
tornado response resources
For those affected by the storm, St. Louis is coming together to provide much needed resources. Here are few and ways to find even more.
Tornado Recovery Information | City of St. Louis
The main resource center for the region that provides links to city services, utilities, volunteering, donations, and more.City of St. Louis Tornado Response Fund
This fund supports the City of St. Louis’ efforts to provide immediate relief and long-term rebuilding of areas impacted by the tornado. This fund will be supported by charitable dollars only.Volunteer for Storm Recovery | Action St. Louis
Volunteers are needed to help sort and distribute items to individuals affected by the storm. Volunteers will also help with debris removal.Preliminary Business Assessment | SLDC
This survey will be used to determine the extent of the damage done in the business community in order to determine solutions and needs going forward.WeBuild Initiative | TechSTL
This is a rapid-response effort to connect volunteer tech talent to support the work addressing urgent community needs after the recent tornadoes. Get support or volunteer.Free Coworking | TechartistA, Spark Coworking, and ThriveCo
If you are someone you know was impacted by the storm, free cowork available at the TA UCity & Downtown, Spark St. Louis, and ThriveCo Locations Locations. No Signup Necessary.
Please stay safe. help if can, when you can. Together, we will rebuild and emerge stronger than before.
ESO, Accelerator, and Funding Opportunities
Due July 21 // Call for Speakers | St.Louis Startup Week
St. Louis Startup Week 2025 invites innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry experts to apply as speakers for its November 10–14 event. Ideal sessions offer actionable insights, diverse perspectives, and engaging formats like workshops, panels, or fireside chats. First-time speakers are encouraged to apply. (Speaking Opportunities)
Due July 25 // Allstate Main Street Grants Program
A national program supports 250 small business owners through a 12-week virtual accelerator focused on marketing, finance, operations, and strategic growth. Of those, 63 will receive $20,000 grants to invest in tools and resources enhancing business operations and resilience (Bootcamp)
Due August 3 // 40 Under 40: Class of 2025 | St. Louis Business Journal
This annual recognition highlights 40 young professionals under 40 who are making significant contributions to business and the St. Louis community. Honorees are selected through an editorial review based on career achievements and community impact and are featured in a special publication by a local business outlet. (Community Award)
Due August 4 // Y Combinator
A premier Silicon Valley accelerator provides $500K seed funding in exchange for about 7% equity, intensive three-month cohorts, weekly mentorship and talks, investor introductions, and alumni community support, culminating in Demo Day presentations to top-tier investors. (Accelerator)
Due August 5 // 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 4 programs: Proof of Concept for early-stage entrepreneurs, 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 8 // THINKSGIVING | Filament
Filament’s award-winning initiative pairs creative teams from our region’s smartest organizations with nonprofits for a day of collaborative innovation and problem-solving. (Non-Profit Help)
Due August 14 // Small Business Hero Program | Intuit QuickBooks & Mailchimp
A nationwide initiative celebrates small businesses showing courage, perseverance, and community impact. Twelve quarterly winners receive a $20,000 grant plus marketing exposure and free QuickBooks and Mailchimp services to support growth and operational efficiency. (Grant)
Startup, Tech, and Marketing Events
July 14
How to attract higher-paying clients | Enterprise Nation
Appreciate the insights from a bestselling author as you uncover the silent barriers that keep expert work unnoticed and learn strategic messaging shifts that make clients say, “She gets me. Where do I sign?”, elevating your business visibility. (Virtual)
Expert Panel: Best Practices for Modernizing Your Data Environment | TDWI
Thrive in a forward-thinking discussion elaborating on how organizations can evolve their data management practices efficiently. Experts share actionable advice on improving platform flexibility and advancing analytics readiness through methodical modernization. (Virtual)
Model Mondays – Fine Tuning & Distillation | Microsoft Reactor
Explore the nuances of model customization in this session, focusing on fine-tuning and distillation methods to enhance AI model efficiency. Engage with Microsoft’s core AI professionals, sharing valuable insights for developers and entrepreneurs. (Virtual)
Canva Essentials for Mastering Social Media Design | NY Public Library, Thomas Yoseloff Business Center
Share an enriching experience focused on mastering Canva’s essential tools tailored for social media success. The session highlights template versatility, typography impact, and the integration of multimedia elements to transform your digital content. (Virtual)
Setting Up a New Business Entity | SCORE Mid-Atlantic Region
Dive into a comprehensive session that explains how to establish your new business entity properly by learning about the best legal structures along with important licensing and insurance considerations. (Virtual)
July 15
Invoicing & Setting Payment Terms | Digital Boost
Transform your understanding of business finances through this engaging Masterclass, highlighting practical advice on invoicing, payment timelines, and overcoming common financial challenges. Prepare to enhance your entrepreneurial skills with valuable real-time guidance. (Virtual)
STL Women of Tech: A Quarterly Brunch at Spark Coworking | TechSTL
Immerse yourself in an empowering event designed for women advancing or pivoting their careers in technology. Connect with like-minded professionals while exploring strategies for thought leadership and cultivating a strong personal brand amid a rapidly shifting labor landscape. (In-Person | Spark Coworking – St. Louis)
Creating an Effective Capability Statement for Government Contracts | Missouri APEX Accelerator
Be part of a targeted training session that helps small businesses understand the key elements of an effective Capability Statement and learn strategies to format, tailor, and present their credentials confidently when bidding for government contracts. (Virtual)
UX design and the rise of business designers | General Assembly
Embark on a journey through the changing world of UX design where AI relieves manual tasks, allowing designers to take on more strategic, business-focused roles. Learn from experienced instructors about the future demands on UX professionals. (Virtual)
Tech for Good: Immersive Tools for DEI | Sparknews
Attend a virtual workshop featuring leading voices on how AI and extended reality reshape industries while integrating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion principles. Discover efforts backed by European programs emphasizing ethical tech development. (Virtual)
AI Is Rising, but Are We? Why Consciousness Must Catch Up | Small Business University
Engage in a transformative webinar that delves into the need for leaders to expand awareness alongside AI advancements. Discover how consciousness is pivotal for thriving in an AI-centric world, guided by philosopher-scientist Bhupendra Chaudhary. (Virtual)
Build Faster with ChatGPT: How to Use AI as a Co-Founder, for Students | OpenAI Academy
Gain valuable knowledge at this joint OpenAI Academy and Expop workshop that empowers students to harness AI technology for their startups. Explore ways to automate marketing tasks, conduct market analysis, generate content visuals, and accelerate your project milestones. (Virtual)
Marketing Your Small Business to Increase Sales and Profits | U.S. Small Business Administration (Nebraska)
Discover essential marketing tactics tailored for small businesses in this comprehensive session. Topics include competitive analysis, budgeting, public relations, and creating impactful marketing plans to elevate your brand and maximize profitability. (Virtual)
Build Smart Apps with Ease: GenAI, Cloud SQL, and Observability for Faster Development | Google Cloud
Indulge in a comprehensive experience designed around harnessing the power of generative AI, cloud-based databases, and monitoring capabilities that make app development seamless and rapid. Perfect for developers seeking cutting-edge methodologies. (Virtual)
Build a Marketing Framework: Clarify Your Brand, Audience Insights & Messaging | SCORE Twin Cities
Venture into building a robust marketing foundation by exploring consistent brand messaging and audience insights. Learn how to effectively align your visual identity across various platforms for cohesive and impactful communication. (Virtual)
Virtual Town Hall: Showing Up Authentically on Social Media | Freelancers Union
Absorb expert advice from marketing consultant Kat Kortebein as she guides you through strategic and creative ways of authentic self-presentation on social platforms. Learn how reframing fears can elevate your engagement without resorting to jargon. (Virtual)
DevLAB: Hacking, Building & Learning in St. Louis | TechSTL
Join a dynamic evening of hands-on learning where you can enhance your skills on in-demand tech platforms. Bring your laptop and ideas to discuss projects, connect with peers, and possibly find your next collaborator while enjoying refreshments in a vibrant setting. (In-Person | T-REX)
Da Link Up | Da Hood Connect
Celebrate community strength through interactive podcast episodes that foster open dialogue alongside opportunities to build relationships with local leaders. Enjoy light refreshments and join in the lively post-show activities aimed at creating a meaningful impact. (Virtual)
Transfer to Tech | NBMBAA – Saint Louis Chapter
Join this exciting and interactive discussion on utilizing the skills in your current career to catapult into a tech career. Hear from tech professionals at various career stages and participate in an exercise to identify your key transferable skills. (In-Person | LaunchCode)
Introverted Women Entrepreneurs & Professionals Connecting | Building Her Dream
Partake in a welcoming virtual space dedicated to introverted women in business, where connection feels natural and comfortable. This event encourages genuine dialogue through curated questions, offering reassurance, fresh ideas, and confidence to all who join from their environment. (Virtual)
July 16
PitchSTL | Presenters: Channel Design & StratFit
Enjoy a weekly showcase dedicated to empowering early-stage companies through succinct pitching opportunities at Cortex, combined with audience engagement and constructive critique designed to help startups refine their business models and grow effectively. (In-Person | Cortex @ 20 S. Sarah)
How to Construct Your Fund for Long-Term Success | Carta
Dive into the nuances of venture capital fund construction through a practical exploration of forecasting, fund modeling, and scenario planning. Learn how industry leaders leverage Tactyc to refine financial strategies, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure fund longevity. (Virtual)
Your Path to MWBE Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide | SLDC
Connect with experts as this event provides an in-depth walkthrough of the MWBE certification application process, helping companies navigate the online platform effectively. It serves as a follow-up to prior training sessions focused on certification details. (In-Person | NEEC at the William J. Harrison Education Center)
Holiday & Seasonal Content That Sells | Connect Video
Be part of an engaging event hosted by local marketing leaders offering step-by-step guidance in developing compelling holiday-themed video content alongside efficient creation tools and strategic timing advice. (In-Person | Sevpro)
Navigate Direct and Indirect Communication | Talaera
During this engaging training session, identify direct versus indirect speaking styles. You’ll explore real-world scenarios, avoid common mistakes, and practice adapting your language for maximum impact in diverse professional environments. (Virtual)
Turning Headwinds into Opportunities: Unlocking Global Ecommerce Growth Amid Evolving Markets and Consumer Trends | Emarketer
Witness a live discussion featuring senior analysts and industry leaders uncovering the latest trends affecting global ecommerce growth, focusing on adapting to changes in consumer behavior, market conditions, and sustainable business practices worldwide. (Virtual)
Lunchtime Live | Food Trucks: Kalifornia Cuisine, Widdy’s Cheesesteaks, Grace Chicken and Fish
Lunchtime Live is Downtown St. Louis’ premier outdoor lunchtime party that features live bands, local eats, and community. (In-Person | Old Post Office Plaza)
Agentic AI Summit | ODSC
Discover how the integration of Agentic AI enhances security measures, delivering exceptional improvements to threat detection and response through Google’s specialized security teams. (Virtual)
AI Vision Unleashed: Powering Automated Visual Inspection with Edge AI | Association for Advancing Automation
Witness how AI-driven edge computing revolutionizes visual inspections in manufacturing, enhancing precision by detecting micro-defects and complex geometries in real time. Industry experts will reveal cutting-edge embedded solutions that streamline processes, reduce downtime, and ensure exceptional product quality. (Virtual)
Navigate Commercial Leases with Confidence | Start Small Think Big
Gain essential insights into commercial leases, from decoding standard lease terms and financial obligations to mastering negotiation strategies. Legal experts offer practical guidance to help entrepreneurs confidently navigate lease agreements, identify potential red flags, and effectively plan exit strategies. (Virtual)
The Wedge + SIUE Community Collaboration Lab: Data and Storytelling | The Wedge
Ignite your networking potential by visiting The Wedge for an open house highlighting collaboration with SIUE partners. Attendees can tour the venue’s four floors plus rooftop, meet innovators from diverse fields, and discover opportunities fueling growth in the Metro East region. (In-Person | The Wedge)
July 17
MAC Business Development Group Meeting
Appreciate the chance to boost your business connections early in the day with other motivated individuals. This meeting emphasizes relationship-building and collective advancement in a collaborative atmosphere. (In-Person | Missouri Athletic Club)
AI Agents for CIOs: Practical Criteria, Alternatives and Best Practices | Gartner
Explore the practical criteria for deploying AI agents across business operations, with expert insights into evaluating vendor versus in-house solutions. The session also contrasts agentic AI with traditional automation tools to guide optimal technology decisions. (Virtual)
AI Security as a Strategic Advantage | Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center
Venture into the strategic aspects of AI security tailored for entrepreneurs aiming to leverage technology confidently. This session covers prioritizing risks, building trustworthy systems, and applying practical tools shared by renowned specialists Kristy Hornland and Katie Boswell. (Virtual)
Smash the Silo, Sync the Funnel: ABX That Moves Revenue | American Marketing Association
Learn innovative techniques for smashing silos and aligning marketing with sales funnels to create cohesive ABX initiatives that drive measurable revenue results. (Virtual)
AI at the Edge: Smarter, Safer, and More Cost-Effective AI for the Public Sector | Government Technology
Engage with an expert panel to unravel the challenges of cloud-based AI in public institutions. Explore smarter, safer AI advancements at the edge, emphasizing security, compliance, and new opportunities through model distillation and edge computing. (Virtual)
Write Anything Faster: A Framework for Repurposing Your Best Content | CreativeMornings
Take part in an engaging virtual FieldTrip where brand strategist Phil Pallen guides you through auditing your past content and transforming it into new formats like books and lead magnets, with hands-on exercises using Adobe Acrobat AI for smarter content creation. (Virtual)
How to Build Zero-Click Content in the Age of AI | MarketingProfs
Learn how to assess business scenarios for AI agent adoption, balancing complexity and efficiency needs. Discover when simpler solutions like workflow automation or RPA may deliver better outcomes, with research-backed recommendations to guide CIOs in making informed choices. (Virtual)
Creative Café St. Louis | Adobe
Enjoy an afternoon designed for aspiring creatives to explore the professional design world through meaningful conversations, live portfolio reviews, and engaging experiences. This relaxed meet-up encourages collaboration and curiosity in a supportive and inspiring space. (In-Person | The GRBIC)
Reboot: Tech Careers Loading… | TechSTL
Attend a dynamic workshop series led by industry experts that provides practical guidance on refining your resume and portfolio, mastering interviews, tailoring job applications, and expanding professional networks in the tech industry. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
Innovators Hour with C2N Diagnostics | Biogenerator
Explore the vibrant world of bioscience entrepreneurship through engaging conversations that reveal how cutting-edge startups are transforming human health and agriculture. These events foster learning, inspiration, and networking opportunities for innovators and curious minds alike. (In-Person | BioSTL)
Downtown Summer Nights | Movie Night: “Frozen”
Absorb the festive energy at weekly events showcasing iconic films and diverse musical acts. Special nights include a Shakespeare play and unique venue changes, enhancing your summer night out in the downtown open-air plaza. (In-Person | Keiner Plaza)
Create Now St. Louis | Adobe
This evening event brings together artists and innovators for hands-on learning, community building, and an inside look at Adobe’s newest creative features. From live showcases to interactive sessions, expect a vibrant blend of inspiration and practical know-how. (In-Person | The GRBIC)
Connect & Elevate: A Terrace Mixer with CIBC Bank | HSSU Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Experience a vibrant summer mixer on the terrace with entrepreneurs, professionals, and financial partners connecting over music, refreshments, and networking. Discover banking resources and funding tools to support small business success in an engaging atmosphere. (In-Person | Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship)
TechSTL Speed Networking | TechSTL
Revel in a high-energy setting crafted for professionals seeking to expand their networks quickly and effectively in the heart of St. Louis. This event offers structured speed rounds plus informal mingling over drinks that keep conversations going beyond the formal session. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
2025 Business After Hours – Alzheimer’s Association | Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan St. Louis
Embrace the chance to strengthen ties with the Hispanic and Latino business community by attending this open networking event. Held every month, it welcomes all participants eager to engage with local professionals while enjoying a relaxed environment, respecting safety guidelines. (In-Person | Alzheimer’s Association)
PySTL | Talk of the Month – Pydantic
Join an insightful session uncovering Pydantic’s capabilities to parse rather than validate data, empowering developers to write safer Python code. Learn practical ways to integrate this library into your projects for improved reliability and clarity. (In-Person | TechArtista CWE)
Social Thursdays | KRe8 Spaces
Soak up the energetic vibe at Social Thursdays, where you can unwind with great music and meet fellow young professionals or entrepreneurs. This recurring event is perfect for those seeking social connections and entertainment alike. (In-Person | KRe8 Spaces)
July 18
July 18-27 // St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase | Cinema St. Louis
Embrace storytelling from emerging talents and seasoned filmmakers in this event honoring 25 years of local cinema. Attendees can participate in discussions, masterclasses, and networking events that foster artistic growth and celebrate creative camaraderie. (In-Person | Hi-Pointe Theatre)
Bright & Early: Visual Artist Ria Unson | STL.org
Kick off your day immersed in creativity as Ria Unson presents her perspective on time, artistry, and life’s coincidences that shape her work, at a lively monthly gathering designed for creative minds. (In-Person | STL.org)
Welcome to Women Empowering Women Mingle Event
Transform your networking experience by joining a community-driven gathering to foster connections among women professionals. Participate in engaging activities while learning about membership benefits and future events tailored to support your growth. (In-Person | Bakers & Hale)
Sales for Non-Sales Professionals | SCORE – St. Louis Bi-State Region
Participants learn how to connect with potential customers authentically, confidently overcome objections, and guide conversations toward a “yes” that aligns with their values and expertise. (Virtual)
Community Bazaar | International Institute St. Louis
Join the vibrant community gathering where attendees share a meal, connect with valuable resources, and support local immigrant-owned businesses in a welcoming environment. This free event encourages cultural exchange and community building every few weeks. (In-Person | International Institute St. Louis)
Bourbon Friday // Entrepreneur Networking & Bourbon Tasting
Connect with entrepreneurs, changemakers, and bourbon enthusiasts at a vibrant social gathering featuring tastings and networking opportunities. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where stories are shared, relationships built, and the local startup spirit celebrated over excellent bourbon. (In-Person | Techartista Downtown)
July 19
From Mailman to Millionaire Motivational Workshop
Embark on a motivational journey where practical advice meets inspiring stories to guide you from humble beginnings to financial success in this dynamic workshop. Discover how passion can become profit and learn strategies for achieving millionaire status. (In-Person | North County Innovation Center (NCIC))
July 20
St. Louis Code & Coffee
Elevate your coding experience by joining fellow techies in a friendly environment where you can share expertise, discuss projects, or connect. The agenda features organized intros and potential workshops led by members. (In-Person | Techartista UCity)
The Business of UX Design: Strategy, Metrics, and Making Impact | UX Woman
Ignite your passion for UX by exploring effective strategies that align with business objectives and measuring impact through data-driven metrics, guided by expert speakers ready to elevate your professional skill set in just one hour. (Virtual)
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We’re all ears! What has you enthusiastic about the days ahead? Your feedback shapes our vision for the St. Louis startup, tech, and marketing community. To share events or critical deadlines, email us at [email protected].
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