Ready to supercharge your professional journey in St. Louis? The week of October 7-13 is your golden ticket! Our Founder, Erik Lutenegger, has compiled an extensive list of events and resources for entrepreneurs, techies, and marketers looking to level up.
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. (Community Participation)
Due October 18 // Startup Connection 2024
On Wednesday, Nov. 13, STL Startup Week will host Startup Connection, an expo-style event highlighting 40+ of the region’s most promising up-and-coming startup companies.
Sign up for an ESO Table
Sign up for a Startup Table
(Startup Expo)
Due October 18 // STL Startup Week 2024: Pitch Competition
The STL Startup Week 2024 Pitch Competition invites early-stage startups in the St. Louis area to compete for a $5,000 prize pool. Finalists will pitch their business live to a panel of judges and an audience at the 24:1 Cinema in Pagedale, Missouri. The competition is open to for-profit companies under five years old with founders over 18. Startups must have a scalable business model, be based in Missouri, and show potential for market innovation. Powered by Purina Pet Care Innovation, the event fosters local entrepreneurial growth. (Pitch Competition)
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 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 7
October 7-11 // STL Design Week
Engage with a diverse community of creatives during a week-long celebration that transforms neighborhoods into vibrant hubs of artistic expression. Workshops, talks, and studio tours await those ready to unlock their potential and explore collaborative opportunities. (In-Person | Various)
October 7-9 // NVIDIA AI Summit
Discover cutting-edge approaches to AI as you connect with professionals from diverse sectors. Explore central themes, including digitalization, sustainable computing, and telecommunications, through interactive sessions and live demonstrations. (Virtual)
Cultural Intelligence: A Success Tool for Business Growth | Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center
Enjoy an insightful session focusing on cultural intelligence as a fundamental business tool. Learn from industry expert Bisila Bokoko about strategies that encourage teamwork and innovation by embracing cultural diversity and enhancing your leadership skills. (Virtual)
October 8
From Vision to Execution: A Founder’s Guide to Writing Clear Requirements | Founders Institute
Witness a transformative workshop designed for non-tech founders struggling to articulate their visions into clear engineering requirements. Learn practical strategies and gain insights on aligning your goals with technical execution during this interactive online event. (Virtual)
Vetworking STL October 2024
Share an uplifting evening dedicated to building community among veterans, transitioning service members, and supportive organizations. Enjoy whiskey tasting while learning from experienced speakers who understand the unique challenges faced by those who have served. (In-Person | T-REX)
Black in Fashion Book Debut and Panel | St. Louis Fashion Fund
Delight in an engaging evening celebrating the launch of a transformative book focusing on Black creatives in fashion. Join a panel featuring St. Louis’ innovative designers, offering insights and inspiration crucial for the industry’s evolution. (In-Person | Saint Louis Fashion Fund)
Tech on Tap: 2nd Tuesday @ Urban Chestnut | TechSTL
Join fellow tech enthusiasts for an evening of networking at Urban Chestnut Brewery. Enjoy local brews and engaging discussions about innovation as you connect with industry leaders and peers amidst the vibrant St. Louis tech scene. (In-Person | Urban Chestnut Grove Brewery and Bierhall)
9 Business Myths That Can Get You In Trouble | SCORE Bi-State Region
Explore the intricacies of running a successful business by challenging nine widespread myths. This hour-long virtual event promises to enlighten participants with practical advice inspired by the wisdom of Mark Twain, aimed at enhancing understanding and decision-making. (Virtual)
October 9
October 9-10 // WordPress Accessibility Day 2024
Soak up valuable information from leading voices in the field as they share their expertise on web accessibility. This engagement is designed for anyone interested in fostering an equitable digital landscape within the WordPress community. (Virtual)
PitchSTL // Presenter: Chris DeShon, The Green Premium
Ignite your entrepreneurial spirit at a unique pitch event where St. Louis startups showcase their innovative ideas. Each week, presenters have six minutes to impress, followed by a rewarding Q&A session filled with insightful feedback from the audience. (In-Person | Cortex @ 20 S. Sarah)
Data for Good: Attracting and Retaining Talent in St. Louis | Olin Business School
Engage with local leaders as they share insights from recent research aimed at attracting and retaining talent crucial for regional growth. This event promises strategies to leverage these findings and enhance St. Louis’s competitiveness in the evolving marketplace. (In-Person | Knight Hall)
Capital in Ag | St. Louis AgriBusiness Club
During a panel presentation, consider valuable perspectives on the availability of capital in agriculture, innovation, and regenerative practices. Engage with members, stakeholders, and peers while expanding your professional network, sponsored by BioSTL. (In-Person | Bank of America – Clayton)
Crafting Your Brand Story | Freelancers Union
Discover how to forge an impactful brand narrative in an engaging online workshop on essential storytelling techniques. Participants will explore key elements that enhance emotional connection and learn creative strategies to resonate with their target audience. (Virtual)
Beyond Generic Chatbots: Unleash the Power of Personalized Conversational Agents with Google AI | Google Cloud
Dive into innovative methods for creating customized chatbot solutions powered by Google AI. This event promises to equip participants with essential strategies to enhance user engagement through personalization and intelligent interactions. (Virtual)
Women In Leadership Info Session | Focus St. Louis
Venture into a transformative experience aimed at empowering women in leadership. This session offers insights into the program’s benefits, application process, and valuable perspectives from alumnae who have thrived through the initiative.
Design a Strong Brand for your Business | Kirkwood Public Library
Take in valuable insights on building a strong brand that resonates with customers. This interactive session includes exercises for creating your Brand Description and identifying key labels that reflect your business’s true essence while celebrating women entrepreneurs. (In-Person | Kirkwood Public Library)
Geosaurus Unleashed | T-REX
Uncover how data integration and geocoding can make a real difference in animal welfare. This unique presentation highlights Kevin Lai’s innovative use of Apache Airflow and AWS to help combat puppy mills, with insights from a recent animal welfare-focused hackathon. (In-Person | T-REX)
How to Build a Multi-Six Figure Business Through Social Media | Network After Work
Enhance your understanding of business growth through social media at this informative online event. Participants will gain valuable tips on establishing an influential presence, connecting with clients, and achieving remarkable financial outcomes. (Virtual)
Anchor Accelerator Pitch Fest Information Session | UMSL Anchor Accelerator
Revel in the excitement of launching your startup as you join industry leaders for a detailed look at the pitch fest agenda. This session promises essential takeaways that will enhance your pitch presentation skills. (Virtual)
October 10
October 10-11 // Experience St. Louis | Focus St. Louis
Embark on a two-day journey into the heart of St. Louis, where executives and senior leaders will gain a comprehensive understanding of the region’s influential dynamics, connecting with key decision-makers and immersing in critical civic discussions. (In-Person)
The Future of Creativity: 5 AI Tools to Unlock Your Next Big Breakthrough | CreativeMornings
Enjoy a dynamic virtual gathering focused on utilizing AI for creativity. Attendees will gain insight into refining their workflows, crafting fresh ideas, and fostering better audience connections through engaging discussions and shared experiences. (Virtual)
The Art of the Possible: Best Practices in Data Analytics | Enterprise University
Experience a deep dive into best practices in data analytics tailored for executives. Learn how to optimize data usage, avoid pitfalls, and implement actionable strategies for informed decision-making, all guided by industry expert Kaitlyn Webster in this virtual session. (Virtual)
Family Dinner — Wealth Series | HeyDays
Unite with others for an enriching evening filled with culinary delights and valuable insights into personal finance. This Family Dinner offers a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can learn from experts about practical wealth-building strategies while enjoying homemade cuisine. (In-Person | HeyDays)
Money Management for Entrepreneurs | WE NYC
Elevate your business acumen in this informative online session designed for aspiring entrepreneurs. Attendees will gain insights into budgeting techniques, credit management, and investment strategies that can lead to sustainable growth and success in their ventures. (Virtual)
Business Banking Workshop: Immigrants Banking Services | African Chamber of Commerce, St. Louis
Gain essential knowledge at a unique event to empower immigrants through effective banking solutions. Leaders from BMO will be present to provide practical tips on maximizing business credit opportunities while fostering community connections. (In-Person | BMO Bank)
XD Throwdown
Transform your evening as two talented teams compete in a thrilling live design challenge. Witness innovative solutions unfold before your eyes while engaging with the vibrant St. Louis design community during this exhilarating event. (In-Person | Work & Leisure)
Founders Lounge | MultiPass Venture Community
Entrepreneurs can enjoy an evening fostering relationships, exchanging stories, and gathering insights. It promotes networking, provides opportunities for potential collaborations, and includes inspirational talks from successful entrepreneurs. (In-Person | Aloft St. Louis)
October 11
October 11-13 // Oktoberfest STL | Urban Chestnut
Enjoy a weekend dedicated to celebrating German heritage through electrifying live music and delicious culinary offerings! This festival brings people together for food contests, cultural experiences, and beloved traditional activities amidst a cheerful atmosphere. (In-Person | Urban Chestnut)
Email Marketing Friday Forum | MarketingProfs
Ignite your passion for email marketing by joining thought leaders who will dissect the elements of high-performing emails. This forum focuses on emotion-driven strategies that convert casual subscribers into loyal customers. (Virtual)
US Ad Spending by Industry: Our Forecasts Unpacked | EMARKETER
Immerse yourself in expert analysis as top forecasting professionals reveal which sectors dominate digital ad investments. This engaging session promises to equip you with detailed knowledge about how different industries allocate their marketing resources effectively. (Virtual)
Bourbon Friday @ Techartista Downtown
Kick off your weekend by joining fellow innovators at Techartista Downtown. This event combines bourbon tasting with entrepreneurial storytelling, creating the perfect space for startups to connect, learn from one another, and enhance their networks. (In-Person | TechArtista Downtown)
October 13
St. Louis Code and Coffee
Be part of a dynamic collective that fosters skill-sharing and networking. Whether you’re there to work independently or engage actively in discussions, this event provides a unique opportunity to learn from others while sipping coffee in good company. (In-Person | TechArtista UCity)
Join us on Meetup or Tiktok.
Share your anticipation for the week ahead in the comments below! Your enthusiasm fuels the growth of the St. Louis startup, tech, and marketing community. Don’t forget to email us at [email protected] if you have an upcoming event or important date to highlight.