List Of Major Startups Events In Oklahoma

Oklahoma City's startup scene is growing rapidly, with numerous events that help entrepreneurs connect, learn, and grow their businesses. From mentorship programs to funding opportunities, these events provide valuable resources for new and established startups alike. The startup events in Oklahoma City offer crucial networking opportunities that can help local businesses find investors, partners, and talent.

The state's entrepreneurial ecosystem includes organizations that regularly host gatherings focused on different aspects of startup development. These range from educational workshops to pitch competitions where founders can present their ideas. With top Oklahoma City startups spanning industries from healthcare to technology, these events serve as catalysts for innovation and economic growth in the region.

1) Connect Oklahoma Business Expo & Summit

The Connect 2025 Oklahoma Business Expo takes place on May 21, 2025, at Tulsa Expo Square. This event serves as Oklahoma's premier B2B expo designed specifically for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and startups.

Registration for the expo is currently open. Free registration ends Friday, giving businesses a cost-effective opportunity to participate in this networking event.

The expo offers attendees multiple ways to grow their business. It creates a hub where company representatives can meet potential clients, partners, and suppliers all in one location.

For exhibitors, the event provides a platform to showcase products and services to a targeted audience. The full list of participating exhibitors includes companies offering various business products, services, and resources throughout Oklahoma.

The Connect Expo focuses on practical business development. Attendees can expect opportunities for direct networking, learning about new industry trends, and discovering potential collaboration possibilities.

The 2025 edition continues the expo's tradition of supporting Oklahoma's business ecosystem, particularly benefiting small enterprises looking to expand their reach within the state.

2) ODIA Defense Briefing - The Space Industry in Oklahoma

The ODIA Defense Briefing on space industry in Oklahoma is scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025. This event brings together government officials, industry leaders, and academic experts to discuss the current state of Oklahoma's space sector.

Startups can benefit from networking opportunities that begin at 2:30 pm, followed by startup pitches from 3:00 to 3:50 pm. These pitches are from participants in the Government Business Boot Camp organized by The Catalyst Accelerator and The University of Tulsa.

At 4:00 pm, the main discussion begins featuring notable speakers including former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine. The event concludes at 5:00 pm, offering businesses a compact yet valuable experience.

The Oklahoma Defense Industry Association drives growth through collaboration between government, industry, and academia. They focus on advancing national security and defense solutions that benefit the state's economy.

For startups looking to enter the defense and space sectors, this briefing provides direct access to key decision makers and potential partners. Registration is required to attend this event.

3) Government Business Boot Camp by Catalyst Accelerator & University of Tulsa

The Oklahoma Government Business Boot Camp is a two-week program running from June 2-13, 2025, at the University of Tulsa. This event targets startups with innovative technologies looking to work with government contracts.

This equity-free program provides selected companies with free lodging and meals throughout the duration. Six startups in the aerospace sector were chosen to participate in the 2025 program.

The boot camp offers valuable insights from subject matter experts about navigating government contracts. Startups receive practical guidance on how to secure business opportunities with federal agencies.

Hosted in collaboration with Oklahoma Cyber Innovation, the event aims to strengthen the local startup ecosystem. The Tulsa business boot camp connects entrepreneurs with resources needed to expand into government sectors.

For Oklahoma-based startups interested in government contracting, this program offers a direct pathway to understanding procurement processes. The boot camp is held at 12 N Cheyenne Ave in Tulsa, with the current session concluding on June 13, 2025.

4) StartupOKC Weekend Startup Competition

StartupOKC hosts a weekend-long competition that brings together various talents to create new businesses. Developers, designers, marketers, and product managers join forces to transform ideas into actual startups during this event.

The competition follows a simple format where participants share ideas, form teams, build products, and launch startups. This intensive experience helps entrepreneurs test their concepts in a supportive environment.

Participants can expect doors to open at 9:30 AM at Project 3810 in Oklahoma City, providing a full day to work on startup development. The event is designed to take ideas from concept to validation quickly.

The weekend-long startup competition in OKC has become a key event for the local business community. It creates valuable networking opportunities while helping new businesses get off the ground.

Teams receive guidance throughout the process, focusing first on the ideation phase before moving to validation and development. This structured approach helps maximize the chances of creating viable business concepts.

5) Startups Fund Raising Program in Oklahoma City

The Startups Fund Raising Program in Oklahoma City is a recurring event designed specifically for entrepreneurs seeking capital. The program runs from September 2020 through January 2026, giving business owners many opportunities to participate.

This program helps startups connect with potential investors and learn effective fundraising strategies. Participants receive guidance on creating compelling pitch decks, understanding term sheets, and navigating the fundraising landscape in Oklahoma.

The events take place in Oklahoma City and are organized by Lakshman Singh. These sessions provide a structured approach to fundraising that can benefit businesses at various stages of development.

Oklahoma's tech scene is booming with must-attend events like this one, making it easier for local startups to find investment opportunities without leaving the state. The program complements other startup resources in the region.

Attendance requires registration through Eventbrite, and spots may fill quickly. Business owners should sign up in advance to secure their place.

6) Oklahoma Technology Conference & Expo

The Oklahoma Technology Conference & Expo has emerged as a key event for tech-focused startups in Oklahoma. This annual gathering brings together innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to showcase the latest advancements in technology.

Held in Oklahoma City, this conference features exhibitions, workshops, and networking opportunities tailored for businesses looking to grow in the tech sector. The event typically includes keynote speeches from successful tech entrepreneurs and venture capitalists.

The Oklahoma innovation conference and expo is organized by The Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science & Technology (OCAST). They describe it not just as an event but as "the ultimate playbook for innovation."

Startups can benefit from product demonstration opportunities and direct access to potential investors. The expo floor provides a platform to display new technologies and services to a targeted audience.

The conference also includes specialized tracks covering areas like blockchain, AI, and software development. Businesses interested in exploring more tech events can check the comprehensive Oklahoma City technology events guide for additional opportunities throughout the year.

7) Tulsa Startup Networking Mixer

The Tulsa Startup Networking Mixer is a key event for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to grow their connections in Oklahoma's startup ecosystem. It typically takes place monthly, offering a casual environment for meaningful business relationships.

Attendees can meet potential investors, collaborators, and mentors at these mixers. The event attracts professionals from various industries including tech, retail, and services.

The mixer is organized by Startup Grind Tulsa, which is part of a global community spanning 120 countries. Their goal is to help startups and scaleups find the resources they need to succeed.

Each event features structured networking opportunities and sometimes includes short presentations from local success stories. These presentations provide valuable insights into the local business landscape.

For entrepreneurs seeking to expand their network, the business and networking events in Tulsa offer excellent opportunities to meet like-minded individuals. The mixers usually last 2-3 hours and often include refreshments.

The next Tulsa Startup Networking Mixer is scheduled for June 22, 2025. Registration is required and can be completed online through the event website.

8) Oklahoma Small Business & Entrepreneurship Forum

The Oklahoma Small Business & Entrepreneurship Forum is a key event for business owners and entrepreneurs across the state. It brings together small businesses, startups, and resource providers in one location.

This annual gathering focuses on practical knowledge sharing and networking. Attendees can connect with potential partners, investors, and mentors who understand the local business landscape.

The forum includes workshops on funding options, marketing strategies, and regulatory compliance. These sessions are designed to address the specific challenges Oklahoma entrepreneurs face.

Oklahoma-based small businesses and entrepreneurs can showcase their products and services to a targeted audience. This exposure often leads to new business relationships and growth opportunities.

Industry experts provide insights on current trends and future projections for the Oklahoma market. Their guidance helps businesses adapt to changing economic conditions.

The event also highlights resources from organizations like the Oklahoma entrepreneurial ecosystem partners that support business development throughout the year.

Registration typically opens three months before the event date, with early bird discounts available for prompt sign-ups.

9) Investor Pitch Night in Oklahoma City

Investor Pitch Night is a key event for Oklahoma startups seeking funding opportunities. Entrepreneurs can present their business ideas to potential investors in a structured format designed to showcase innovation and growth potential.

The event typically features 5-7 startups who each get about 5 minutes to pitch their business concept. After each presentation, investors ask questions to better understand the business model and market opportunity.

Entrepreneurs should prepare a concise pitch that covers the problem they're solving, their solution, market size, competitive advantage, and funding needs. A polished pitch deck is essential for making a strong impression.

Pitch and networking events in Oklahoma happen regularly throughout the year, giving startups multiple chances to connect with the investment community.

Many successful Oklahoma companies found their initial funding through these pitch nights. The atmosphere combines professionalism with networking opportunities before and after the formal presentations.

Oklahoma Venture Forum hosts business pitch presentations at their After Hours events, providing another avenue for startups to gain visibility with local investors and business leaders.

10) Oklahoma Innovation and Collaboration Summit

The Oklahoma Innovation and Collaboration Summit is a key event for startups seeking networking and growth opportunities. Held annually, this summit brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders from across the state.

The summit features keynote speeches from successful founders and Oklahoma's premier innovation conference sessions that tackle current business challenges. Attendees can participate in workshops focused on funding strategies, market expansion, and technology adoption.

Startup founders benefit from the pitch competition where they can present their business ideas to potential investors. The event typically includes a dedicated exhibition area where companies showcase their products and services.

Networking is a major component, with structured social mixers and collaboration opportunities throughout the day. Many participants report forming valuable business relationships during these sessions.

The summit also highlights resources available to Oklahoma entrepreneurs, including grant programs, incubators, and accelerators. Local success stories are featured to inspire new business owners and demonstrate the potential of the Oklahoma startup ecosystem.

The Importance Of Startup Events In Oklahoma

Startup events serve as critical catalysts for business growth and innovation across Oklahoma's entrepreneurial landscape. They bring together key players in the ecosystem and provide platforms for new ventures to thrive.

Driving Innovation And Economic Growth

Startup events in Oklahoma play a crucial role in fueling the state's economic development. These gatherings showcase new technologies, business models, and ideas that contribute to job creation and economic diversification.

The Oklahoma Business Expo & Summit has become a cornerstone event where innovation and collaboration intersect. This B2B trade show creates opportunities for small businesses to display their products and services to potential investors and customers.

Startup events also attract outside investment to the state. When investors see Oklahoma's vibrant startup ecosystem firsthand, they become more willing to fund local ventures. This influx of capital helps startups scale operations and create more jobs.

Many events feature pitch competitions where entrepreneurs can win funding and resources. These competitions push founders to refine their business models and accelerate growth plans.

Networking Opportunities For Entrepreneurs

Oklahoma startup events provide invaluable networking platforms for entrepreneurs at all stages of business development. Face-to-face interactions at these events often lead to partnerships, mentorships, and business deals that might not happen otherwise.

Events like Startup Grind Oklahoma City deliver education, connections, and opportunities specifically designed to help startups succeed. Entrepreneurs can meet potential co-founders, employees, and advisors who share their vision and complement their skill sets.

Industry experts frequently attend these events, offering guidance and insights based on their experience. Their advice can help founders avoid common pitfalls and make better strategic decisions.

Networking at startup events also helps entrepreneurs build support systems. Building a business can be isolating, but connecting with others facing similar challenges creates community and mutual support networks.

Startup events often attract representatives from accelerators and incubators looking for promising ventures to support with resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities.

Key Organizations And Venues Supporting Startup Events

Oklahoma's startup ecosystem thrives due to strong support from various organizations and venues dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurial growth across the state.

Role Of Local Incubators And Accelerators

Oklahoma features several impactful incubators and accelerators driving startup success. The Oklahoma City startup ecosystem includes 36 Degrees North in Tulsa, which offers coworking space, mentorship programs, and hosts regular pitch competitions and networking events.

i2E (Innovation to Enterprise) provides crucial funding resources, mentorship, and technical assistance to early-stage companies. Their annual events connect entrepreneurs with investors and industry experts.

The Forge in Tulsa serves tech startups with specialized programs and workspace solutions. They organize monthly meetups where founders share experiences and form partnerships.

StarSpace46 in Oklahoma City functions as both a coworking space and event venue, regularly hosting hackathons, founder talks, and startup workshops that attract participants from across the region.

Engagement Of Universities And Research Centers

Oklahoma's universities play a vital role in the startup community. Oklahoma State University's Technology Development Center actively supports entrepreneurial initiatives and innovation through their business incubation programs and annual startup competitions.

The University of Oklahoma's Tom Love Innovation Hub provides prototyping facilities, mentorship, and hosts events like Startup Weekend that bring together students and community entrepreneurs. Their maker spaces are equipped with cutting-edge technology for product development.

The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation collaborates with health tech startups, offering specialized lab space and research partnerships. They host quarterly biotech forums connecting researchers with entrepreneurs.

Francis Tuttle Technology Center's Launch Pad program provides technical training and business development services specifically designed for technology startups. Their facilities accommodate everything from small workshops to large conferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Oklahoma's startup ecosystem offers numerous events that cater to various industries and business needs. These events provide networking, funding, and growth opportunities for entrepreneurs across the state.

What are the upcoming startup events scheduled in Oklahoma City's Innovation District?

The Innovation District hosts several upcoming events including the Oklahoma Business Expo & Summit in August 2025. This event brings together small business owners, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals.

The StartupOKC Weekend Startup Competition is scheduled for September 2025, offering local startups a chance to pitch their ideas to investors.

The Government Business Boot Camp, co-hosted by Catalyst Accelerator and University of Tulsa, will take place in July 2025, focusing on government contracting opportunities.

Where can I find a comprehensive calendar for tech and startup events occurring in Oklahoma?

Techlahoma maintains an updated calendar of tech events across the state, including monthly meetups and annual conferences.

The Oklahoma Department of Commerce website features a business events section with listings of upcoming startup and innovation gatherings.

Local chambers of commerce, including Oklahoma City and Tulsa, offer tech meetups and conferences listings that are regularly updated with registration information.

How can entrepreneurs participate in Oklahoma's biotech-focused events?

Entrepreneurs can join the Oklahoma Bioscience Association's quarterly networking events by registering through their website or contacting their membership office.

The annual BIO Oklahoma Conference accepts applications for startup showcases six months before the event date.

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation hosts monthly innovation talks where biotech entrepreneurs can present their work to potential investors and partners.

Are there any annual aerospace industry events for startups in Oklahoma?

The ODIA Defense Briefing focusing on the Space Industry in Oklahoma is held annually in Oklahoma City, typically in October.

Aerospace startups can participate in the Oklahoma Aerospace Summit held each spring, which includes pitch competitions and exhibitor opportunities.

The Tulsa Air and Space Museum coordinates quarterly aerospace innovation meetups where startups can showcase their technologies to industry leaders.

What networking opportunities are available for new startups at Oklahoma's Innovation Hub?

Weekly founder meetups take place at the Innovation Hub, allowing new entrepreneurs to connect with established business owners in a casual setting.

Monthly industry-specific roundtables bring together startups working in similar fields to discuss challenges and opportunities.

The Hub's quarterly investor nights give startups formal opportunities to network with angel investors and venture capital firms interested in Oklahoma businesses.

Which Oklahoma City startup events offer the best chances for job seekers to connect with innovative companies?

The Startups Fund Raising Program in Oklahoma City combines pitch events with talent recruitment, making it ideal for job seekers interested in funded startups.

Tech hiring fairs occur quarterly in the Innovation District, with over 50 companies typically participating.

Oklahoma City's tech community has experienced a 15% increase in jobs recently, with many positions being filled through connections made at local tech events and through the city's thriving tech hub networks.

‍