About STL Startup Week

A five-day celebration made for St. Louis, by St. Louis.

STL Startup Week (STLSW) is the region’s premier event series designed by and for the local entrepreneurial community. Each year, STLSW brings together thousands of founders, small business owners, investors, industry experts, and community leaders to spark new ideas, foster meaningful connections, promote shared learning, and celebrate success. The week-long programming features inspiring talks, hands-on workshops, dynamic panel discussions, competitions, networking events, meetups, and more.

Get to know the organizers

STL Startup Week is organized primarily by local startup founders, champions, and supporters. This highly-engaged team of volunteers continues to make sure STLSW is a big success each and every year.

This isn’t just a conference.
It’s a movement.

The future of innovation in St. Louis doesn’t belong to a select few. It belongs to all of us. STL Startup Week was created to open doors to make entrepreneurship more accessible, more connected, and more celebrated across the region.

This is where collisions happen, partnerships begin, and confidence grows. Whether you're building something or just beginning to imagine it, STL Startup Week helps you find what (and who) you need next.

You don’t have to be a founder to belong here (but you can!)


At STL Startup Week, you don’t need to be a founder, investor, or CEO to belong. If you’re curious, ambitious, building something, or simply looking to connect, you’re in the right place.

Here’s how people from all walks of life plug into the week:

AudienceWhat You’ll Find
FoundersShare your story, grow your network, and connect with mentors and collaborators.
Small Business OwnersDiscover strategies, resources, and partnerships to help your business thrive.
Startup-Curious ProfessionalsExplore entrepreneurship, meet real founders, and learn how to get started.
Students & Career ChangersLearn from industry leaders, explore new paths, and build your future network.
Investors & AdvisorsMeet rising talent and discover bold new ideas.
Creatives, Marketers & TechnologistsFind collaborators, projects, and fresh inspiration for your work.
Community Builders & Support OrgsCollaborate, connect, and amplify the innovation happening across STL.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of events happen during Startup Week?

Panels, workshops, pitch competitions, keynote talks, networking happy hours, and pop-up meetups—over 50 live events across venues throughout St. Louis.

Who organizes all of this?

A volunteer team made up of local founders, creatives, and startup supporters, coordinated and supported by the TechArtista Foundation, a Missouri-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Every event is powered by people who believe in building St. Louis’s future entrepreneurship and innovation economy.

Who should attend?

Anyone eager to learn, connect, or grow! Whether you're launching a company, leveling up your career, exploring a new idea, or simply curious, you’re welcome here.

How much does it cost?

The vast majority of events during STL Startup Week are free and open to the public. A few select sessions may have a small fee to cover food, supplies, or venue costs.

I’ve never been to a startup event. Is this for me?

Absolutely! You don't need a business, a team, or a plan. Come curious and show up!

Where does it take place?

All across the St. Louis metro region! Events are typically hosted at coworking spaces, community hubs, local businesses, universities, and innovation centers.

Can I come for just one day or one event?

Yes! Attend one session or fill your whole week— it’s up to you. Every connection and conversation counts.

How do I stay updated on sessions and schedules?

Sign up for event updates and check out the full schedule online as November approaches!

Find your role at STL Startup Week

Ready to pitch in? Great! STL Startup Week thrives because of community members like you.