Whether you’re building your first startup or scaling a seasoned business, the week of October 6-12, 2025 in St. Louis offers something for you. Our Founder, Erik Lutenegger, has selected the top events to help entrepreneurs, tech experts, and marketers make an impact.
ESO, Accelerator, and Funding Opportunities
Applications Open // TechSTL Mentoring Program
These two mentoring programs support St. Louis’s tech and startup community. One connects professionals with experienced mentors for career development, while the other pairs startup founders with seasoned entrepreneurs in a cohort model to accelerate business growth and foster innovation across the region. Applications are required for both tracks. (Mentorship)
Due November 4 // 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 November 19 // TechStars Accelerator
This global network of three-month accelerator programs supports early-stage startups with seed capital, world-class mentorship, curated workshops, and access to a vast investor and alumni ecosystem. Founders receive strategic resources, Demo Day exposure, and lifetime access to Techstars’ network. Applications are now open for: Northwestern Medicine & Techstars Healthcare, AI Health Baltimore, Anywhere, London, and New York City. (Accelerator).
Startup, Tech, and Marketing Events
October 6
October 6-10 // Digital Inclusion Week | ConnectSTL
Discover a dynamic week focused on closing the digital divide through diverse events featuring hands-on tech activities, digital literacy support, creative tech exploration, community discussions, and safe teen spaces—all designed to empower St. Louis families, professionals, and youth. (In-Person | Various)
First Step – Your Path to Business Ownership | Kutztown University SBDC
Connect with seasoned experts from SBA, SBDC, and local partners during this free live webinar that guides aspiring entrepreneurs through Pennsylvania’s business startup process, offering essential tools and insights required to confidently launch and manage a new business. (Virtual)
Cybersecurity Without the Hype: A Strategy-First Approach for Small Business | Small Business Expo
Enhance your understanding of cybersecurity with a practical, strategy-first webinar tailored for small businesses. Gain insights on protecting your enterprise, boosting resilience, and ensuring compliance without unnecessary expense or fear-driven tactics. (Virtual)
Implementation and Integration: Managing AI Agent Development | Product School
Gain insight into leading AI agent development projects focusing on agile methodologies tailored for AI uncertainty, cross-functional team coordination, and performance tracking. This online session offers strategies to manage scope creep and build-versus-buy decisions effectively. (Virtual)
Build a Multi-Agent System using OpenAI Agents SDK | OpenAI Academy
Join the session to explore the fundamentals of multi-agent systems and understand their functionality. Experience how to empower agents with tool access for managing emails and calendars using the OpenAI Agents SDK, guided by experts from DeepStation and Miami Dade College. (Virtual)
The Full-Time Creative Formula: Learn the 5 Vital Elements You Need to Succeed | CreativeMornings
In this virtual session, understand the five essential elements for success as a full-time creative. You’ll learn to overcome common creative blocks and gain practical tools to build a joyful and meaningful creative career with expert guidance throughout. (Virtual)
Inventory Planning 101: Smarter Forecasting & Planning Strategies | Startup CPG
Transform your understanding of inventory planning with expert insights from a leader in AI finance platforms. This online session dives into retail forecasting tactics, templates for practical use, and benchmarks to optimize stock levels and boost profitability for CPG brands. (Virtual)
2026 Crucible Accelerator Info Sessions | FedTech
Venture into the 2026 Crucible Accelerator Info Sessions to explore a 10-week virtual program tailored for startups with TRL 4-6 technologies focused on real-world challenges through NavalX partnerships and expert mentorship, with no cost or equity required. (Virtual)
Her Clarity Circle For Introverted Women | Building Her Dream
Savor a virtual gathering designed specifically for introverted women seeking thoughtful support and clarity. Bring your challenges and leave with fresh perspectives, encouragement, and actionable next steps in a calm, non-overwhelming environment. (Virtual)
October 7
Executive Storytelling: AI’s Impact on Headcount, Layoffs, and Business Value | Gartner
Uncover how AI reshapes executive decisions around workforce optimization, with insights into layoffs, cost strategies, and business value. Explore storytelling as a powerful tool for communicating complex shifts, grounded in real-world examples and Gartner’s expert analysis. (Virtual)
Towards 10x Team Productivity with AI | DataCamp
Elevate your team’s efficiency by exploring AI-driven methods to streamline tasks like meetings, research, and reporting. Learn which tools cut through the noise and deliver tangible productivity gains through actionable workflows and real-world applications. (Virtual)
Building Generative Video Agents with Google ADK, Veo 3, and Nano Banana | ODSC
Discover how to harness Google’s advanced tools—ADK, Veo 3, and Nano Banana—to create intelligent generative video agents that automate video production from 3D asset creation to cinematic video generation. (Virtual)
Danforth Shared Research Facilities Expo | WashU
Engage with pioneering technologies and shared research resources at this expo, featuring oral presentations, exhibitor booths, poster sessions, and lab tours designed to foster collaboration and innovation among researchers from diverse disciplines. (In-Person | Whitaker Hall Atrium)
Beyond Basic SQL: Unlocking Deeper Insights with Advanced and Innovative SQL | Google Cloud
Enhance your SQL expertise by diving into advanced techniques and innovative approaches that reveal deeper data insights beyond basic queries. This event focuses on practical skills and fresh perspectives to elevate your database analytics capabilities. (Virtual)
All about MCP, the Model Context Protocol | Saint Louis Generative AI Lab
Experience a detailed discussion on the Model Context Protocol (MCP), exploring how it empowers AI models by integrating live data and real-world tools, transforming context into advanced computation for smarter applications and agents. (In-Person | Slalom Consulting)
October 8
October 8-10 // Small Business & Nonprofit Conference | St. Louis County Library
Join this three-day conference designed for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and nonprofit leaders that offers tailored sessions on marketing, legal insights, funding strategies, and growth tactics to help you start, strengthen, and expand your venture effectively. (In-Person | Clark Family Branch)
PitchSTL | Presenters: B C Security
Attend PitchSTL’s weekly startup event at Cortex, where local entrepreneurs present their ideas and receive insightful feedback in a supportive environment, fostering growth and connection among St. Louis startups. (In-Person | Cortex’s Square One)
Email Like You Mean It: Build Authority With Every Send | Enterprise University
Take in expert guidance on crafting emails that do more than sell—ones that foster credibility and connection. Learn how strategic content and automation shape audience trust through every send. (Virtual)
Lunchtime Live | Food Trucks: Spud Shack, Tropical Pot, Jr’s Tacos
Kickstart your midday with vibrant live music and diverse food trucks at downtown St. Louis’ Lunchtime Live, happening weekdays from April to October. Enjoy a bustling atmosphere at Kiener Plaza and Old Post Office Plaza, featuring rotating culinary delights and local entertainment. (In-Person | Old Post Office Plaza)
FOCUS Women In Leadership Informational Session | Focus St. Louis
Discover how this virtual informational session introduces women to a leadership program that enhances personal, professional, and civic skills through community engagement and diverse connections. (Virtual)
From Buzz to Impact: Practical Strategies to Leverage AI | Women Empowering Woman
Explore practical strategies to effectively implement AI tools in your business, guided by industry expert Liz Peuster. This virtual event offers insights into real-world applications that enhance efficiency and drive organizational success without compromising core values. (Virtual)
The Future of War and Venture: Investing in Defense, Deterrence, & Dual-Use | Founder Institute
Uncover trends at the crossroads of warfare technology and venture funding through a focused online gathering. Learn from experts how these disruptive startup ventures transform defense mechanisms and influence global security landscapes. (Virtual)
Authenticity & Leadership: Defining Success on Your Own Terms with the SBDC | Kirkwood Public Library
Connect with a panel of women leaders discussing maintaining authenticity while defining personal success in business. This interactive event offers insights into varied leadership styles and encourages questions on balancing career goals with individual values. (In-Person | Kirkwood Public Library)
How to Build a Multi-Six Figure Business Through Social Media | Network After Work
Enhance your entrepreneurial skill set with insider knowledge shared by pro Andy Audate during this online event. Discover valuable tactics to secure continuous leads, leverage virtual platforms, and build a thriving multi-six-figure venture efficiently and strategically. (Virtual)
Geosaurus Unleashed | T-REX
Immerse yourself in an engaging presentation by Walter Jenkins, Founder of TransitChat, who will explore designing geospatial workflows tailored for non-technical users. Learn how spatial data meets practical application to boost user adoption and streamline agency training. (In-Person | T-REX / 4th Floor)
Vetworking STL October 2025
Explore a vibrant networking evening for veterans, transitioning service members, and military families. This in-person event offers whiskey tasting and opportunities to connect with veteran-friendly employers and organizations in a welcoming environment at T-REX. (In-Person | T-REX / 5th Floor)
October 9
FARM Food Futures Forum | WashU Public Health
Discover a dynamic forum uniting experts from academia, government, and industry focused on transforming food systems for health and sustainability through interdisciplinary dialogue and innovative solutions involving public health, agricultural science, and market strategies. (In-Person | Hillman Hall, WashU Danforth Campus)
Boost Productivity with AI | General Assembly
Attend an interactive one-hour class that explores non-technical ways to integrate Generative AI into everyday work routines. Discover methods for improving business writing clarity, task automation, and content summarization through real-world examples. (Virtual)
Navigating Tariffs with Confidence | Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center
Elevate your understanding of recent U.S. tariff changes and their impact on costs, supply chains, and competitiveness in this online session with expert Jason Given. Gain strategies for pricing, sourcing, and inventory planning to protect your business margins effectively. (Virtual)
St. Louis BizExpo
Join hundreds of business owners to network, showcase products, and build sales at the largest B2B trade show in Missouri. Experience live demonstrations, connect with decision-makers, and launch new services while gaining direct market feedback for your brand. (In-Person | St. Charles Convention Center)
Dream Links, Real Authority: Digital PR’s Edge in SEO & AI Search | Search Engine Land
Gain insights from Michael Johnson, CEO of Resolve, as he demonstrates how Digital PR can transform news into authoritative backlinks that boost SEO and influence AI search results, providing strategies to outshine competitors through top-tier media coverage. (Virtual)
Ensuring ADA Compliance & Accessibility for Small Business Websites | Start Small Think Big
Be part of a vital conversation on digital inclusion, as legal experts outline the essentials of website accessibility for small businesses. Explore how accessible design strengthens customer engagement and supports broader community access. (Virtual)
3rd Annual Multi-Ethic Chamber Mixer
Explore rich cultural diversity by joining a vibrant mixer featuring the Asian American, Heartland Black, Hispanic, Afghan, African Chambers, and St. Louis Mosaic Project. Enjoy food, drinks, and traditional attire representing your heritage for a truly immersive experience. (In-Person | International Institute St. Louis)
Founders Lounge Global | Powered by Metis Analytics
Learn from seasoned innovators in a public meetup group centered on entrepreneurship. Participate in discussions, exchange experiences, and build lasting relationships to elevate your business journey within a supportive network. (In-Person | Spark Coworking St. Louis)
Social Thursdays | KRe8 Spaces
Embrace a refreshing midweek escape filled with fun, relaxation, and social connection at this vibrant weekly gathering. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere for unwinding and meeting new people during these lively evening sessions. (In-Person | The KRe8 Place)
October 10
How to Scale Your Startup After Raising Capital | Glorium Technologies
Ignite your startup’s potential with guidance from expert speakers discussing the nuances of prudent growth following funding rounds. This webinar includes Q&A opportunities, practical advice on market evaluation, and methods to optimize investor appeal. (Virtual)
St. Louis AgriBusiness Club Meeting
Delight in a collaborative afternoon where experts examine hemp industry growth and educational alignment. The event bridges agriculture, academia, and opportunity with a networking lunch, insightful dialogue, and a facility tour. (In-Person | St. Louis Community College – Meramec)
Email Marketing Friday Forum | MarketingProfs
Embark on a deep dive into modern B2B email marketing strategies with top experts sharing the latest tactics, from demand generation secrets to automated deliverability and year-end audits. Learn how to boost performance and optimize campaigns effectively. (Virtual)
The Venture Game – Spot the Unicorn | Skandalaris Center
Explore a hands-on workshop where participants role-play as venture capitalists, learning how to evaluate startups and build investment portfolios through group decision-making. Gain insights into the fundamentals of venture investing with guidance from an industry expert. (In-Person | Skandalaris Center)
Bourbon Friday // Networking & Bourbon Tasting
Celebrate the vibrant St. Louis startup community while enjoying a selection of fine bourbon at this lively networking event. Attendees share stories and experiences in a relaxed ambiance, fostering meaningful connections accompanied by bourbon tastings from 4 to 7 PM. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
October 12
St. Louis Code and Coffee
Immerse yourself in a welcoming co-working event where tech enthusiasts of all levels gather to work on projects, socialize, and exchange knowledge. The session includes introductions, member announcements, optional workshops, and collaborative opportunities. (In-Person | TechArtista UCity)
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.
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We want to know your plans, what are you tackling this week? Share in the comments to keep the conversation going. Have an event or important date? Reach out to [email protected].
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