Attention, St. Louis entrepreneurs, techies, and marketers! The week of March 10-16 is brimming with opportunities catered to your needs. Our Founder, Erik Lutenegger, has prepared a detailed guide to help you navigate the must-attend events and resources. Embrace the chance to grow and thrive.
ESO, Accelerator, and Funding Opportunities
All Week Long // Cybersecurity Audits for St. Louis Small Businesses | Maryville Business Solutions
A student-led consulting initiative is offering free cybersecurity audits for St. Louis small businesses. The audits include an initial interview, security analysis using CSC standards, a comprehensive report, and a Q&A session. Businesses can request an audit during 314 week. (Free Help)
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 // 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)
Application Open // Square One Ignite | Cortex
This four-week program assists early-stage entrepreneurs in validating 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 March 10 // Inno Maddness 2025 | St. Louis Business Journal
This bracket-style competition by Inno spotlights the innovation, tech, and startup community. Nominated local startups compete in a six-round voting contest by readers to crown the Inno Madness Winner, fostering city ecosystem awareness. (Community Contest)
Due March 14 // SLU New Venture Accelerator | Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship
This 14-week accelerator program offers Saint Louis University students and recent alumni equity-free investments of up to $50,000, focusing on customer discovery, validation, business development, and revenue modeling. Participants engage in weekly in-person sessions in St. Louis, culminating in a demo day for investors and partners. (Accelerator)
Due March 23 // Fire Awards 2025 | St. Louis Business Journal
The Fire Awards are St. Louis Inno’s premier recognition program, honoring the companies and organizations setting the local innovation economy ablaze. There are too different one for regular companies and one for Lifetime Achievement. (Community Awards)
Due April 11 // Missouri Startup Weekend
A three-day event at EquipmentShare HQ allows participants to develop business ideas with mentorship and investor support. Competitors can win a $10,000 cash prize, $15,000 in MVP development services, and potential investments exceeding $150,000. The program fosters innovation and connects entrepreneurs with industry leaders. (Startup Competition)
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, Marketing, and Tech Events
March 10
How to Value the Business You’re Buying (or Selling): | SCORE Bi-State Region
Explore the complex world of business valuation at this informative online meeting. Participants will uncover effective methods to assess worth and confidently engage in negotiations, enhancing their entrepreneurial toolkit in just one hour. (Virtual)
March 11
March 11-12 // Monster Scale Summit | ScyllaDB
Immerse yourself in a two-day virtual conference dedicated to performance-sensitive applications. Participate in interactive sessions covering streaming, real-time processing, and intriguing system designs. Learn best practices for achieving predictable low latency at high throughput from seasoned engineers. (Virtual)
AI Trends: Spotlight on Search | Google Cloud
Take in transformative ideas surrounding AI’s role within the search domain at this dynamic gathering. With expert guest speakers and networking opportunities, participants can expect valuable takeaways to implement in their projects. (Virtual)
How to confidently pitch yourself to clients | Enterprise Nation
Venture into a session for small business owners seeking growth in pitch strategies. Caroline Kay’s expertise will help dispel common self-doubts, equipping attendees with tools to create excitement about investing in their services. (Virtual)
Virtual Conference: Analytics & Measurement | American Marketing Association
Transform your understanding of marketing by participating in this expert-led virtual conference. Delve into advanced analytics, measurement techniques, and actionable insights to empower you to make informed decisions and enhance your marketing ROI. (Virtual)
Building Your Dream Team: Co-Founders, Hiring & Scaling | Founder Institute
Kick off your entrepreneurial journey by participating in this insightful online discussion. Learn how to identify co-founders and structure your team effectively to ensure the longevity of your startup’s vision. (Virtual)
How to start creating your own apps using no-code | CreativeMornings
Engage with fellow aspiring creators in a dynamic environment where you can learn how to build real applications using cutting-edge no-code platforms. This session promises skills and empowerment as you see your ideas become reality. (Virtual)
Intro to SBIR/STTR Funding via Zoom | MOSBDC
This 90-minute live offering via Zoom is designed to introduce technology startups and university researchers considering a start-up to how they might fund R&D through Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Grants. This is an introduction to the topic, not a “how to apply” course. (Virtual)
Onchain Crowdfunding: How Crypto is Transforming Donations
Be part of a transformative event discussing how blockchain technology is reinventing fundraising. Gain insights from experts and discover practical strategies for integrating cryptocurrency into your donation methods while networking with like-minded professionals in the field. (In-Person | Heydays HQ)
Vetworking STL March 2025
Indulge in an evening filled with networking opportunities tailored for veterans. With established companies attending, attendees can forge new connections while savoring whiskey tastings, all aimed at strengthening St. Louis’ veteran ecosystem. (In-Person | T-REX)
Tech on Tap Networking – St. Louis | TechSTL
Revel in an engaging evening where members of the St. Louis tech scene converge for insightful presentations over refreshing brews. This public event invites everyone looking to expand their knowledge and connect with like-minded individuals. (In-Person | Urban Chestnut Brewery)
March 12
PitchSTL | Presenters: Climate Herald & Right2thetaste
Marvel at the talent emerging within St. Louis’s entrepreneurial community as participants pitch new ventures each week, followed by a collaborative Q&A session designed to foster meaningful connections and helpful insights. (In-Person | Cortex’s Square One)
Build, Brand, Boost: Create, Connect, Convert | MOSBDC
Led by Valeria Rodriguez, founder of Valeria R. Creative, is an artist and strategist with a unique approach to branding that blends creativity, cultural insight, and strategy. Drawing from her Afro-Latina identity and deep understanding of diversity, Valeria creates authentic, inclusive solutions for purpose-driven brands. (In-Person | T-REX)
Networking Strategies | Kirkwood Public Library
Immerse yourself in a dynamic event dedicated to empowering small business owners. Attendees will gain essential networking strategies through real-world examples and panel discussions, offering tools to build strong professional networks that drive entrepreneurial growth. (In-Person | Kirkwood Public Library)
How Small Businesses Can Use AI Safely and Effectively | Start Small Think Big
Engage in a transformative webinar designed for small businesses looking to harness the power of artificial intelligence. Delve into crucial legal aspects surrounding AI, such as data privacy and intellectual property rights, ensuring your enterprise navigates these waters safely (Virtual)
How to Build a Multi-Six Figure Business Through Social Media Marketing | Network After Work
Experience a transformative webinar hosted by Network After Work, led by Andy Audate, focused on mastering social media marketing for building a robust financial future. Equip yourself with tools that help fill your calendar with high-value opportunities. (Virtual)
Geosaurus Unleashed | T-REX
Take in an eye-opening discussion on animal welfare and technology at Geosaurus Unleashed. This session highlights Paw Print Surveillance, a cutting-edge Chrome extension designed to flag potential puppy mills. Engage with experts, explore powerful data insights, and network over complimentary food and drinks. (In-Person | T-REX)
Level Up to High-Value Clients | Freelancers Union
Partake in an engaging session dedicated to freelancers yearning for growth. You will delve into key strategies that address client issues while learning to rethink your value proposition, ensuring you’re compensated fairly for your talents. (Virtual)
March 13
Innovate: Generative AI + Data | AWS
Indulge in six thoughtfully crafted tracks that cover everything from technical deep dives to practical business strategies. Participants will gain invaluable skills in leveraging AI technologies, ensuring they can navigate the evolving landscape of data solutions effectively. (Virtual)
Digital Marketing Strategies for Female Founders | WE NYC
Learn from seasoned expert Sharon Lee Thony as you uncover practical strategies for digital marketing. This workshop is crafted specifically for women entrepreneurs looking to foster connections and inspire action within their target audiences. (Virtual)
Painting the Tech Business Model Canvas | MOSBDC
This 6 week online offering via Zoom will introduce technology start-ups to the steps necessary for developing a business model canvas for their early concept. This includes a framework that focuses on discovering the customer problems in the space where their potential solution may live. In addition, this course will consist of steps to develop a value proposition that fulfills the customers’ needs and differentiates them in the marketplace. Participants will learn the basics of conducting customer discovery interviews and will apply real-life learning (Virtual)
From Strategy to Execution: Managing Complex Marketing Campaigns | MARTECH
Dive into a comprehensive webinar that equips participants with strategies for managing complex marketing campaigns. You’ll explore essential planning, execution, and measurement techniques, all while learning from experienced professionals about fostering collaboration throughout the campaign lifecycle. (Virtual)
Transforming Your Board Meeting: Turning Pain Points into Best Practices | Techstars
Understand the future of board meetings by attending sessions highlighting real-world challenges founders and investors face. Experience insightful discussions aimed at turning common pain points into actionable solutions for growth-focused boar (Virtual)
Transform Marketing Chaos into Clarity with Connected Identity | EMARKETER
Uncover key findings in this informative webinar highlighting the significance of identity resolution in marketing technology. Learn how top organizations leverage data connectivity to boost their efficiency and enhance consumer experiences. (Virtual)
Cash in on Clean Energy: Navigating Tax Credits and DOE Grants | Enterprise University
Navigate the evolving clean energy landscape with expert insights on tax incentives and grant programs. Learn how manufacturers, nonprofits, and businesses can capitalize on funding opportunities to advance sustainability efforts and drive meaningful change. (Virtual)
Founders Lounge | Multipass Ventures
Soak up valuable insights during inspiring talks from successful entrepreneurs while creating meaningful connections with others in the tech startup ecosystem. Your next great idea might just come from a conversation here! (In-Person | Aloft)
Dutchtown Business After Hours – Special 314 Day Edition! | Neighborhood Innovation Center
Join this special 314 Day edition of Business After Hours, where they will celebrate local food entrepreneurship and welcome Gold Star Gourmet to the community with an exclusive pre-launch tasting! (In-Person | Dutchtown Neighborhood)
SheCan Connect Game On, Goals Up Meet & Greet | #SheCan Connect
Elevate your aspirations as you gather with empowered women committed to blending faith with professional ambition. This meet-and-greet offers workshops with resources designed for those aiming for spiritual and career success. (In-Person | Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship)
March 14
314 Day Festivities | Various
Enjoy exciting happenings all around St. Louis for 314 Day, with activities like delicious food specials, enlightening library programs, and outdoor adventures, ensuring that everyone can find something to love about their city. (In-Person | Various)
314 Innovators – Looking at the past, present, and future of digital | 314Digital
Cherish this moment to enrich your understanding of the digital world at this breakfast event! Gather insights from experts discussing the digital innovation journey, facilitating invaluable networking among enthusiasts. (In-Person | A. Casa)
Video Marketing Friday Forum | MarketingProfs
Participate in dynamic sessions focusing on essential scripting skills for impactful B2B videos. Learn to craft attention-grabbing hooks and maintain clarity, ensuring your message reaches decision-makers effectively and creatively in the commercial world. (Virtual)
Bourbon Friday
Connect with fellow entrepreneurs during an engaging evening focused on networking and bourbon tasting. This laid-back gathering invites participants to exchange experiences, challenges, and insights while enjoying a rich selection of bourbons in a vibrant atmosphere. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
March 15
Launch & Grow a Food Business: Lean & Smart Ways | Neighborhood Innovation Center
Bask in the opportunity to hone your food business skills at a dynamic workshop. Learn from experienced entrepreneurs about market demands, product development, and essential marketing techniques while preparing your venture for launch. (In-Person | Neighborhood Innovation Center)
Join us on Meetup or Tiktok.
Share your enthusiasm for the week ahead in the comments section! Your insights are invaluable in shaping the St. Louis startup, tech, and marketing landscape. For those with events or crucial dates to promote, send the details to [email protected].