List Of Major Startups Events In Mississippi

Mississippi's entrepreneurial landscape is growing with exciting opportunities for startups and small businesses. The state hosts several key events throughout the year where entrepreneurs can connect, learn, and pitch their ideas to potential investors. These startup events in Mississippi offer valuable networking, funding, and educational resources that can help new businesses thrive in the competitive market.

From university-sponsored competitions to professional networking gatherings, Mississippi provides various platforms for business innovation. The state's focus on supporting local entrepreneurs is evident in events like the annual Startup Summit at Mississippi State University, which awards significant funding to emerging businesses in different categories. These events create a supportive ecosystem where startups can showcase their ideas and gain crucial exposure.

1) Innovate Mississippi Statewide Pitch Events

Innovate Mississippi hosts several pitch events across the state that offer startups a platform to showcase their businesses. These events are held in partnership with eight regional organizations throughout Mississippi.

The pitch competitions include two tracks for participants: an idea stage and a venture stage. Both tracks give entrepreneurs cash prizes and valuable exposure to potential investors and mentors.

These events serve as qualifying opportunities for the CoBuilders Accelerator program. This 12-week intensive program is designed to help promising Mississippi startups grow faster and reach their potential.

The CoBuilders business accelerator program includes important resources for startups such as coursework, mentorship, and funding opportunities. Companies that complete the program get to present at a final Pitch Day showcase.

Pitch Day takes place at the Mississippi Museum of Art in downtown Jackson. Here, selected startups present their businesses to angel investors and other funding sources.

Entrepreneurs interested in these events should contact Innovate Mississippi for upcoming dates and application requirements. These pitch competitions happen throughout the year across different regions of the state.

2) InvestMS Monthly Connect Event

InvestMS hosts a regular monthly Connect event for entrepreneurs and startups in Mississippi. These gatherings create opportunities for business owners to network and share ideas in a supportive environment.

The Connect event is designed to help Mississippi-based startups and ventures at various funding stages from Pre-Seed to Series A. It's powered by Innovate Mississippi, an organization that has helped create over 1,300 startups in the state.

Attendees can meet potential investors, mentors, and other founders at these events. This networking opportunity is valuable for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses and find funding.

The monthly meetup for entrepreneurs in Jackson serves as a launching pad for many business relationships. Connections made at these events often lead to partnerships and investment opportunities.

Connect events typically feature short presentations from selected startups. This gives new companies a chance to practice their pitch and get feedback from experienced business people.

To participate, entrepreneurs should check the InvestMS website for upcoming dates and registration details. These events are usually free to attend but may require registration in advance.

3) CoBuilders 12-Week Startup Accelerator

CoBuilders is Mississippi's premier statewide accelerator program that helps develop promising startups across the state. The program runs for 12 weeks and provides coaching, mentoring, and business development resources to selected entrepreneurs.

The accelerator focuses on helping founders refine their products, business plans, and pitch decks. Participants work closely with experienced mentors throughout the program to strengthen their business models and prepare for investor presentations.

Currently in its third year, the 2024 CoBuilders cohort features eight promising Mississippi startups who are actively developing their businesses through the structured program. Previous cohorts have included up to 21 companies from across the state.

The selection process involves regional pitch events hosted by seven statewide partners. Three startups from each regional event advance to the main CoBuilders program, creating a competitive environment that identifies the most promising ventures.

At the conclusion of the 12-week development process, participants showcase their businesses during a statewide pitch day for investors, offering valuable exposure and potential funding opportunities. The program represents a significant resource for Mississippi entrepreneurs looking to accelerate their growth.

4) Mississippi Coding Academy Tech Summit

The Mississippi Coding Academy Tech Summit is a key tech event for Mississippi startups and businesses looking to connect with emerging talent. This conference showcases the skills of graduates from the Mississippi Coding Academies full-stack program and provides valuable networking opportunities.

The summit features presentations on cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and full-stack development. Business owners can meet potential hires who have completed the academy's six-month training program.

Companies attending the summit can participate in recruitment sessions where they can interact directly with new coders. This gives businesses a competitive advantage in finding qualified tech talent locally.

The event also includes workshops tailored for startups seeking to improve their technical capabilities. These sessions offer practical advice on implementing new technologies in business operations.

Many tech conferences in Mississippi are beginner-friendly, making the Coding Academy Tech Summit accessible even for startups just beginning to explore technical recruitment. The summit typically features panel discussions with industry experts addressing current challenges in the tech sector.

For 2025, the summit plans to expand its focus on emerging technologies while maintaining its core mission of connecting Mississippi businesses with local tech talent.

5) Jackson Tech Meetups

Jackson has a growing tech scene with regular meetups for entrepreneurs and tech professionals. These events offer great chances to network and learn from others in the industry.

JXNtech hosts regular community gatherings focused on fostering the tech community in central Mississippi. The group brings together current and future entrepreneurs, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.

The Jackson Area Web and App Developers (JAWAD) is another active group where professionals share knowledge about software development. These meetups typically include discussions on current trends and hands-on coding sessions.

For those looking to expand their skills, technology events in Jackson include conferences, workshops, and seminars covering various tech topics. These events often feature expert speakers and practical training.

Many Jackson tech meetups occur monthly, making it easy to fit them into your business schedule. Some groups meet at local coffee shops or coworking spaces, creating a casual environment for networking.

Most meetups welcome participants of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. This inclusive approach helps new startups connect with established businesses in the local tech ecosystem.

6) Mississippi Startup Weekend

Mississippi Startup Weekend is a dynamic event for tech entrepreneurs in the state. This event is part of the global Techstars Startup Weekend network and was hosted in Vicksburg, MS in January.

The weekend brings together innovators, developers, and business professionals to collaborate on new ideas. Participants form teams, develop concepts, and pitch their startup ideas within a 54-hour timeframe.

Technology startups have access to government funding during this event. Organizers connect participants with experts and resources needed to secure non-dilutive funding, which can total millions in grants.

The event particularly supports women and minority-owned startups in Mississippi. This focus helps diversify the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Mississippi Startup Weekend provides valuable networking opportunities with investors, mentors, and other entrepreneurs. These connections often continue long after the event ends.

Participants receive hands-on experience in business model creation, market validation, and prototype development. These practical skills are essential for launching successful ventures in Mississippi's growing tech scene.

7) Accelerate Annual Conference by Innovate Mississippi

The Accelerate 2024 conference is scheduled for November 19-20 at The Westin Jackson. This year marks the 25th anniversary of innovation in Mississippi, with the theme "You Can Build It Here."

This annual event brings together startup founders, investors, and business leaders from across the state. It serves as a major networking opportunity for Mississippi entrepreneurs seeking connections and funding.

The conference includes a special CoBuilders Pitch Day at the Mississippi Museum of Art where Mississippi startup companies showcase their businesses. This gives new ventures valuable exposure to potential investors.

Registration is available for attendees and sponsors. The conference offers a packed schedule of presentations, panels, and networking events designed specifically for the startup community.

Innovate Mississippi has spent 25 years building the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Their work has helped numerous Mississippi startups launch and grow through resources, mentorship, and investment opportunities.

8) Batesville Enterprise Center Workshops

The Batesville Enterprise Center in Mississippi offers valuable workshops for small businesses and startups in the region. Run by the North Mississippi Enterprise Initiative (NMEI), these events focus on practical business skills and entrepreneurial development.

Workshops at the center cover topics like business planning, marketing strategies, and funding options. These sessions are designed to help new ventures grow and succeed in the local market.

Located at the Batesville Enterprise Center, these events provide networking opportunities with other business owners and industry experts. Contact information for the center is (662) 281-0720.

The center works as part of a regional network that includes other business incubators in Oxford and Grenada. This connection gives participants access to broader resources and expertise.

Many Mississippi small business workshops are also held in partnership with the Mississippi Small Business Development Center. These collaborative events bring additional specialized knowledge to local entrepreneurs.

9) Mississippi Small Business Development Center Networking

The Mississippi SBDC Network offers business guidance to startups and entrepreneurs across the state. They host regular networking events where new business owners can meet potential partners, investors, and mentors.

These networking sessions happen monthly in different cities across Mississippi. Attendance is often free or low-cost for registered businesses. The events typically last 2-3 hours and include structured networking activities.

Business owners can practice their elevator pitches and receive feedback from experienced entrepreneurs. Many participants report making valuable connections that led to business deals or partnerships.

The SBDC also provides one-on-one consulting before or after these events. This helps startups apply what they learned from networking conversations.

To participate, businesses should register through the SBDC events calendar. Space is sometimes limited, so early registration is recommended.

Some networking events focus on specific industries like technology or manufacturing. Others target particular business stages, from pre-launch to growth phase companies.

10) Mississippi Angel Fund Pitch Days

The Mississippi Angel Fund hosts regular pitch days where startups present their business ideas to potential investors. These events, established after the fund's founding in 2024, create vital connections between entrepreneurs and capital sources.

Startups get 5-10 minutes to showcase their business model, market opportunity, and funding needs. The pitch format follows standard investor presentation guidelines with emphasis on financial projections and growth strategies.

Companies looking to participate must submit applications through the MAF website. Selection criteria include market potential, innovation level, and readiness for angel investment.

These pitch days serve as more than just funding opportunities. They provide valuable exposure and networking with experienced business leaders who offer mentorship and industry connections.

Winners often receive direct investment consideration from the MAF investor network. Some successful participants may qualify for inclusion in the CoBuilders Accelerator program, a 12-week intensive development process for promising Mississippi startups.

The events typically occur quarterly in various locations across Mississippi, making them accessible to entrepreneurs statewide. Registration is required for both presenters and attendees.

Types Of Startup Events In Mississippi

Mississippi offers several event formats for startups seeking funding, connections, and growth opportunities. These range from large conferences to intimate networking sessions, each serving different needs in the entrepreneurial journey.

Conferences and Summits

The MSU Startup Summit 2025 stands as a premier event for Mississippi entrepreneurs. This annual gathering at Mississippi State University welcomes companies less than 5 years old with fewer than 10 employees. Applications require a pitch deck submission by March 25th, with accepted teams invited to campus for festivities on April 24-25th.

Accelerate is another major conference organized annually by Innovate Mississippi. This event brings together investors, founders, and business leaders from across the state to discuss trends and opportunities in the startup ecosystem.

These summits typically feature:

• Keynote speakers from successful startups
• Panel discussions on funding strategies
• Workshops on business development
• Exhibitor areas for startup showcases

Pitch Competitions

Mississippi hosts various statewide pitch events where entrepreneurs present their business ideas to potential investors. These competitions offer valuable feedback and potential funding opportunities.

Startup Weekend is a popular 54-hour event where aspiring entrepreneurs pitch ideas, form teams, and develop working prototypes. The intensive format pushes participants to validate business models quickly and collaborate effectively.

Regional pitch competitions run by partners of InvestMS occur year-round across the state. These events typically follow a format where:

• Entrepreneurs get 3-5 minutes to present • Judges ask questions for 2-3 minutes • Winners receive cash prizes or investment opportunities • All participants gain exposure to potential investors

Networking and Community Meetups

Monthly Connect events provide regular opportunities for Mississippi entrepreneurs to build relationships with peers and mentors. These gatherings foster community and allow for informal pitch practice and idea sharing.

Local startups and small business events can be found through platforms like Eventbrite, helping entrepreneurs discover opportunities regardless of whether they're locals or just passing through the state.

Common networking formats include:

• Coffee meetups for casual discussions
• Happy hour networking with investors
• Industry-specific gatherings
• Coworking space open houses

These community events often serve as entry points for entrepreneurs new to the ecosystem and provide ongoing support for established founders.

Benefits Of Attending Startup Events

Startup events offer valuable resources that can accelerate business growth and development for Mississippi entrepreneurs. These gatherings provide essential opportunities that go beyond simple networking.

Access To Funding Opportunities

Startup events create direct pathways to potential investors and funding sources. At events like the Mississippi Made competition, entrepreneurs can pitch their ideas to investors who are actively looking for new ventures to support.

Many pitch competitions offer immediate cash prizes that can help fund early-stage business development. For example, Mississippi startups can compete for valuable funding at the Startup Summit 2025 hosted by Mississippi State University.

The funding environment at these events is often more accessible than traditional channels. Investors at these gatherings are specifically interested in supporting local innovation and are more willing to take chances on new ideas.

Preparation for these funding opportunities also helps entrepreneurs refine their business models. Creating pitch decks and financial projections for these events forces startups to critically examine their business plans.

Building Business Connections

Networking at startup events creates lasting partnerships that extend beyond the event itself. These connections often lead to collaborations, mentorships, and business opportunities that wouldn't be possible otherwise.

Local events provide targeted networking with professionals who understand the Mississippi business landscape. This regional focus helps entrepreneurs build relationships with people who grasp the unique challenges and opportunities of the state's economy.

Meeting other entrepreneurs facing similar challenges creates valuable peer support networks. These relationships can help business owners solve problems, share resources, and find emotional support during difficult phases.

Many successful Mississippi startups have found their key team members, advisors, and partners at these gatherings. The face-to-face nature of these events builds trust more quickly than online networking alone.

Learning From Industry Leaders

Startup events feature expert speakers and workshops that deliver practical, actionable advice. These learning opportunities are tailored specifically to the needs of new businesses rather than general business concepts.

Entrepreneurs gain insights into current market trends and emerging technologies. This knowledge helps startups position their products and services to meet evolving customer needs and stay ahead of competitors.

The hands-on workshops at these events provide immediate skill development. Rather than theoretical concepts, attendees learn practical techniques they can implement in their businesses right away.

Success stories shared at these events provide valuable blueprints for growth. Learning from those who have already succeeded in the Mississippi startup ecosystem gives new entrepreneurs proven strategies to follow.

Case studies presented by industry leaders highlight both successes and failures. This balanced perspective helps new business owners avoid common pitfalls while adopting successful practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mississippi offers various startup events that provide networking, funding opportunities, and resources for entrepreneurs looking to launch or grow their businesses. These events connect founders with essential support systems and knowledge.

What are the key startup events happening in Mississippi this year?

Mississippi hosts several major startup events in 2025. The Startup Summit at Mississippi State University features two business plan competitions - a state-wide circuit and a national circuit.

Innovate Mississippi Statewide Pitch Events occur quarterly, giving entrepreneurs a platform to present their ideas to potential investors.

InvestMS Monthly Connect Event happens on the first Thursday of each month, focusing on connecting startups with funding sources.

How can entrepreneurs connect with angel investors at Mississippi startup events?

Entrepreneurs can meet investors through structured networking sessions at most Mississippi startup events. Many events include dedicated investor matchmaking opportunities.

The E-Center at MSU offers a pairing program for startups that connects founders with potential investors and co-founders.

Pre-event research on attending investors helps entrepreneurs make meaningful connections during limited networking time.

What resources does the Small Business Development Center at Ole Miss provide during startup events?

The Small Business Development Center at Ole Miss offers free business consulting during many startup events. Their representatives provide guidance on business plans and financial projections.

They often host workshops covering topics like market research, accounting basics, and funding options.

SBDC advisors can help entrepreneurs refine their pitches before presenting to investors at events.

Are there specific events focusing on tech startups in Mississippi?

Yes, Mississippi hosts several tech-focused startup events. The Mississippi Coding Academy Tech Summit brings together programmers, developers, and tech entrepreneurs.

Jackson Tech Meetups occur monthly and focus on connecting technology startups with resources and talent.

These events often feature workshops on emerging technologies and opportunities for tech demos from participating startups.

What assistance does the SSBCI program offer to startups attending Mississippi events?

The State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) provides information about loan guarantees and venture capital matches at many Mississippi startup events. Their representatives can explain qualification requirements directly to entrepreneurs.

SSBCI often sponsors pitch competitions with prize money for winning startups.

The program helps connect entrepreneurs with approved lending partners who attend these events.

How does the Innovate MS conference support startup growth and innovation?

Innovate MS conference features expert panels on scaling businesses in Mississippi's economic environment. The event includes pitch competitions with cash prizes and investment opportunities.

The conference creates a platform for fostering innovation and collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, and support organizations.

Attendees gain access to mentorship opportunities with successful founders who have built companies in Mississippi.