Entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and marketers in St. Louis, get ready for an exciting week! During the week of October 21-27, our Founder, Erik Lutenegger, has curated a list of events and opportunities that will help you connect, learn, and grow. Don’t miss out on this chance to thrive in our dynamic ecosystem.
ESO, Funding, and Accelerator Opportunities
Applications Open // STL Startup Week Community Events
Are you planning your entrepreneurship-centered program, meetup, or networking event during STL Startup Week 2024? Are you looking for help publicizing and driving attendance to your event? Community Events are all volunteer, community-led events that run alongside Official STL Startup Week programming.
If you don’t want to run an event but still want to be part of the action, sign up to Volunteer now! (Community Participation)
Due November 8 // MTC Idea Fund
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 November 8 // Anchor Accelerator
$150,000 in grants will be awarded to 10 promising Founders working to scale their businesses. At the end of a 5-course business development program, each Founder will receive an Entrepreneurship Certificate from UMSL. (Accelerator)
Due November 11 // Global Impact Award | Skandalaris Center
This program supports entrepreneurs affiliated with Washington University who are developing scalable, for-profit ventures with broad societal impact. Participants receive mentorship and compete for a $50,000 prize by presenting a business plan and proof of concept. (Pitch Competition)
Due November 20 // Techstars Accelerator
This three-month program helps entrepreneurs find product-market fit, get traction, and access capital and mentorship. Applications are now open for Build in Tulsa, Northwestern Medicine & Techstars Healthcare, AI Health Baltimore powered by Johns Hopkins University and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, Anywhere, Columbus Powered by The Ohio State University, London, New York City, San Francisco, Transformative World Torino, Web3, Workforce Development, and USC and Techstars Digital Economy Program. (Accelerator)
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
October 21
October 21-22 // 2024 ACG AgTech Conference | ACG St. Louis
Connect with fellow innovators at an event dedicated to advancing agriculture technology. Join discussions focused on investments, global trends, and making informed decisions that impact business strategy and environmental sustainability. (In-Person | Danforth Center)
October 21-22 // Public Health at WashU Annual Conference | Institute of Public Health
Unite with peers and experts at a pivotal conference, addressing critical questions about equity in public health initiatives. Participants will delve into innovative technological solutions paired with strategic developments in the public health workforce. (In-Person | Various)
How Startup Founders Can Prepare For Fundraising Due Diligence | Founder Institute
Discover essential strategies for startup founders to prepare for fundraising due diligence in this online event effectively. Gain insights on creating a comprehensive data room and understanding your startup’s valuation from venture capital expert Ashley Martis. (Virtual)
Applied Leadership Pathways October Session: Communicate with Intention | Kirkwood Public Library
Take in valuable insights on effective communication during this enriching session. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to learn under the tutelage of Stephanie Haenchen as she guides participants on delivering their messages with greater clarity and precision. (In-Person | Kirkwood Public Library)
October 22
2024 St. Louis Area Chambers Economic Outlook Breakfast | Greater St. Louis Inc.
Attend this engaging breakfast event with participants from numerous local chambers of commerce, where you can connect, collaborate, and learn about significant economic outlooks relevant to the St. Louis community. (In-Person | Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel)
Anchor Accelerator Pitch Fest Information Session III! | UMSL Anchor Accelerator
Engage with industry leaders who will lead you through the essentials of the pitch fest in this informative hour. Expect a comprehensive overview and have your questions answered to fine-tune your approach. (Virtual)
Yoga For Creativity | CreativeMornings
Embrace your creative potential in a rejuvenating virtual experience that combines meditation and gentle yoga. Engage in movement to unlock fresh ideas, followed by free writing sessions inspired by prompts designed to spark imagination and creativity. (Virtual)
Next-Level Branding Standards for Nonprofit Communications | Enterprise University
Gain insights into using nonprofit branding as a strategic tool for more than just fundraising. This session delves into ethical communication principles, accessible design, and crafting impactful messaging, helping your organization create a cultural and psychological connection with its audience. (Virtual)
October 23
October 23-24 // The Fifth Spatial Data Science Symposium
SDSS 2024 offers a platform for discussing cutting-edge techniques in spatial data science, including machine learning applications for geospatial data. Participants can expect insightful sessions on urban sustainability, reproducibility in spatial science, and geoprivacy challenges while connecting with the global spatial data science community. (In-Person | T-REX)
October 23-24 // P99 Conf | Scylla
Immerse yourself in technical deep dives, exploring tools and techniques that enhance system efficiency and reliability. Sessions will cover key topics such as HTTP optimization using Rust and advanced data replication strategies from leaders in the field. (Virtual)
TechByte: How to build your optimal gen AI roadmap for ROI | Google Cloud
Ignite your understanding of artificial intelligence with a session focused on creating an effective roadmap for your organization. Learn proven strategies and best practices that drive ROI through generative AI implementations. (Virtual)
Coffee Talks at 21c: Is St. Louis a Food For All City? | 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis
Explore the visionary idea of creating a “Food for All” city during this interactive Coffee Talk event. Connect with others who are passionate about ensuring everyone enjoys equal access to nutritious meals and shares their perspectives. (Virtual)
PitchSTL | Presenter: Air Refueling Tanker Transport (ART2) & TeaVoila
Witness firsthand the exciting journey of local startups at PitchSTL. Each session invites presenters to showcase their ideas and receive critical input, fostering an enriching environment aimed at empowering St. Louis entrepreneurs. (In-Person | Cortex @ 20 S. Sarah)
Practical AI Strategies (Minus the Tech Jargon) | Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center
Engage in comprehensively exploring practical AI strategies for entrepreneurs ready to enhance their business. The session will cover essential tools for sales automation and creating compelling content led by industry experts that drives conversions. (Virtual)
Mastering Dynamic Leadership: Harnessing the Power of The Four Fits | SCORE Bi-State Region
Uncover transformative strategies in leadership with a dedicated session on the Four Fits of Dynamic Leadership. This inclusive one-hour event encourages leaders to enhance their understanding of crucial power dynamics essential for team success. (Virtual)
Small Business Week Nominations with the SBA | Kirkwood Public Library
Attend the SBA’s Small Business Week Nominations session at the Kirkwood Public Library to discover how to craft an award-winning nomination for National Small Business Week 2025. This event offers practical advice, best practices, and tips for boosting your chances of recognition. (Hybrid)
The sustainability landscape for today’s marketers: How can you generate value for your brand? | American Marketing Association
Gain valuable insights on navigating the complexities of sustainability within your marketing strategy. Julia Lyon will highlight actionable recommendations that empower marketers to harness the trends shaping consumer expectations, fostering authenticity and relevance. (Virtual)
Student Concept Competition | UMSL Anchor Accelerator
Take part in a thrilling event that highlights UMSL’s dynamic student body. The Student Concept Competition invites you to see who will receive the $5,000 in grant funding while presenting innovative solutions with real-world implications. (In-Person | UMSL)
Cortex District Fall Forum
Unite with fellow district members for an engaging forum focused on community feedback, upcoming outreach plans, and a preview of future programming. This interactive session offers insights into the district’s 2024 initiatives and an exclusive look at 2025 plans. (In-Person)
Skandalaris Venture Competition Semifinals | Skandalaris Center
Take in an exhilarating night of innovation at the Skandalaris Venture Competition Semifinals. Engage with budding entrepreneurs as they pitch their ideas and witness firsthand the selection of finalists determined by audience votes and expert evaluation. (In-Person | Crowder Courtyard)
Ask An Expert: Take Your Food Business to the Next Level | Start Small Think Big
Connect with food industry experts and fellow entrepreneurs to uncover strategies for business growth. Learn how to acquire and retain customers, test and improve products, and scale without compromising quality in this dynamic session focused on achieving culinary success. (Virtual)
Spark 2024 | 314 Digitial
Immerse yourself in an evening dedicated to digital marketing excellence. Attend insightful sessions, interact with experts, and discover innovative strategies to boost your marketing efforts as you participate in meaningful discussions. (In-Person | The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis)
October 24
Email marketing must-haves – quick tips for success | Enterprise Nation
Join a transformative Lunch and Learn experience focusing on impactful email marketing. Led by Dave Charest, this brief yet informative session will provide actionable insights designed to help small businesses optimize their digital outreach. (Virtual)
UMSL Sustainability Summit | Energy Transition in Pursuit of Net Zero
Take part in UMSL’s 2024 Sustainability Summit, a unique platform for learning about energy transition efforts from major corporations and local businesses. Focused on achieving net zero, this event includes expert panels on power generation and energy consumption, along with networking opportunities and renewable energy career discussions (In-Person | Touhill Performing Arts Center)
Family Business Awards | St. Louis Business Journal
Admire the perseverance of family-owned companies as they are honored at the 9th annual Family Business Awards. Hosted by the St. Louis Business Journal, the event highlights firms that have transitioned through generations, fostering community involvement and entrepreneurship in St. Louis. (In-Person | Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis)
SuperSummit | Supermetrics
Thrive by discovering cutting-edge approaches from leading brand executives who will highlight successful frameworks for navigating data complexity. This gathering spotlights real-time solutions aimed at enhancing performance through strategic creative engagement. (Virtual)
The Ultimate Consent Strategy for Maximizing Customer Opt-Ins | Martech
Take part in an expert-led exploration of consent strategies that go beyond compliance, helping businesses harness user behavior insights. Participants will learn innovative design techniques and messaging approaches tailored for maximizing engagement and opt-ins. (Virtual)
The Slider Social | Food City
Bask in the vibrant atmosphere at this appealing social meet-up set for food lovers passionate about making a difference. Discover unique slider offerings while connecting with local nonprofits dedicated to feeding the homeless and enhancing community well-being. (In-Person | Marson Foods)
Founders Lounge | MultiPass Venture Community
Enjoy a relaxed evening where entrepreneurs can return from the daily grind, socialize with fellow founders, and share stories. With opportunities for networking, collaboration, and inspiring experiences from successful entrepreneurs, this event fosters connections and creativity in a fun, laid-back environment. (In-Person | Aloft St. Louis)
Founders Unplugged STL | TechSTL
Uncover valuable lessons from successful local entrepreneurs as they discuss their journeys during an intimate fireside chat. This gathering also allows ample time for networking, making it an excellent opportunity for aspiring founders. (In-Person | T-REX)
October 25
2024 She Leads Symposium @ WashU
Delight in a day packed with inspirational discussions led by eminent faculty and guest experts. Attendees will benefit from workshops on gender equity, culminating in a dynamic networking reception for meaningful connections. (In-Person | Clark-Fox Forum)
Microbusiness Social | Neighborhood Innovation Center
Engage with fellow entrepreneurs at a vibrant gathering designed for microbusiness owners. This event offers a platform to network, refine your pitch, and gain valuable insights while celebrating National Women’s Small Business Month with stories from inspiring women-led businesses. (In-Person | Urban Eats)
Bourbon Friday @ Techartista Downtown
Celebrate the St. Louis startup community through meaningful connections during this unique bourbon tasting event. Participants will taste various selections while mingling with fellow innovators, fostering collaboration and sharing entrepreneurial journeys. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
On Our Block Startup Incubator Launch
Designed for founders in underbanked communities, On Our Block’s incubator helps validate business ideas through an 8-week program. Participants gain essential skills, including product marketing, financial modeling, and fundraising, while receiving a $5,000 grant to scale their ventures successfully. (In-Person | HeyDays)
October 27
St. Louis Code and Coffee
Enjoy an inclusive gathering where tech enthusiasts come together every two weeks. This event offers an opportunity to connect with others, share your work, and explore potential collaborations over coffee in a welcoming atmosphere. (In-Person | TechArtista UCity)
Join us on Meetup or Tiktok.
What’s piquing your interest in the St. Louis startup, tech, and marketing scene this week? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! If you’re organizing an event or have a crucial deadline approaching, please let us know at [email protected].