Southern Missouri is on the rise as a hub for innovation and business growth.
The first-ever Innovate SOMO Week, a celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation across Southern Missouri, will take place April 21-25. The week will highlight the impact of the Southern Missouri Innovation Network (Innovate SOMO), a collaborative effort connecting entrepreneurs with resources, fostering innovation and empowering individuals through tech education, business support and talent development across 47 counties in Southern Missouri.
This week-long series of engaging events will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders and community champions to connect, learn and collaborate. It will feature:
- Networking opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders who are shaping the future of Southern Missouri’s economy.
- Educational sessions where participants can learn from industry experts about investment strategies, scaling startups and navigating the evolving business landscape.
- Celebrations of the collaborative spirit of our region that will help participants explore ways to get involved in the innovation ecosystem.
“Innovate SOMO Week is a chance to recognize the incredible work being done across Southern Missouri to foster innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Rachel Munday, Executive Director of efactory at Missouri State University. “We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the successes of our entrepreneurs and the positive impact we’re having on our communities.”
The week will kick off with a celebration at efactory in Springfield on Monday, April 21. Here, we’ll share about the momentum we’ve seen and impact we’ve recorded, thanks to all the community partners and participants who said yes to our expansion of programs. Later in the week, Codefi will host an investor education event and will support an innovation event in West Plains.
“It’s important to shine the spotlight on the job-creating startups and small businesses that drive our regional economy and celebrate the many organizations in the Southern Missouri Innovation Network that work hard to support them,” said Dr. James Stapleton, President and CEO of codefi.
Codefi and efactory will each host live and virtual training opportunities throughout the week, while community partners across the region will host local celebrations and share success stories on social media.
Innovate SOMO Week is part of the Southern Missouri Innovation Network (Innovate SOMO) and is funded by the Missouri Technology Corporation Regional Node Grant Program.
“MTC’s Regional Node Grant Program provides funding for regions to coalesce assets and foster coordinated partnerships between entrepreneurial organizations, ensuring that resources are accessible to all entrepreneurs in the region,” said Jack Scatizzi, MTC Executive Director and CEO.
“The Innovate SOMO Week being organized by Codefi and efactory is an excellent example of how funding awarded through the grant program can serve as the ‘front door’ for the entrepreneurial community, giving entrepreneurs direct access to the resources and support they need to thrive and scale their businesses.”
Innovate SOMO Week is your chance to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders while gaining valuable insights into the region’s thriving innovation ecosystem. Whether you’re looking to grow your startup, invest in new ventures or simply be part of the conversation, this week-long event offers unique opportunities to learn, network and celebrate the impact of innovation in Southern Missouri.
Find more events and details at www.innovatesomo.org/about-us/innovate-somo-week
