List Of Major Startups Events In Utah

Utah's startup scene is thriving with events that connect entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators throughout the year. These startup gatherings offer valuable networking opportunities, mentorship connections, and insights into the latest industry trends that can help new businesses grow in Utah's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

From quarterly meetups to annual summits, the state hosts a variety of tech events in Salt Lake City and beyond that cater to businesses at every stage of development. The Utah Startup Connectory serves as a comprehensive resource for finding entrepreneur groups, associations, and incubators across the state, making it easier for startups to plug into the community.

1) The One Utah Summit

The One Utah Summit is a key business event in Utah hosted by Governor Cox. It happens yearly at Southern Utah University in Cedar City, bringing together business leaders, nonprofits, and government officials.

The next summit is scheduled for October 6-8, 2025, at Southern Utah University in Cedar City. This event offers valuable networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and established businesses alike.

For startups, the summit includes a Startup Pitch networking event featuring Utah's brightest entrepreneurs. The event includes an exhibit hall, speakers, and a speed pitch competition.

The One Utah Summit focuses on topics like entrepreneurship and leadership. It provides a platform where attendees can discuss current business trends and engage in professional development.

Companies looking to expand their connections will find this must-attend event for entrepreneurs particularly valuable. Past summits have featured notable speakers and special events that create unique networking opportunities.

The summit represents Utah's commitment to fostering business growth, especially in rural areas. Tickets are typically available on the official website, with registration opening months before the event.

2) Utah Tech Week

Utah Tech Week is a yearly event that brings together Utah's startup community for networking, learning, and collaboration. It features a variety of experiences hosted by startups, venture capital firms, and community organizations across the state.

The event aims to create happy collisions in the tech community that lead to new friendships, business partnerships, and deals. What makes it especially appealing for startups is that there's no cost to participate.

A key highlight for businesses is the pitch competition held on opening night. Five early-stage Utah startups compete for significant funding, with previous competitions offering prizes up to $200,000.

The most recent Utah Tech Week took place January 22-27, 2024, featuring over 180 events across Salt Lake City, Lehi, and Park City. Activities were hosted at various locations including Kiln and INDUSTRY SLC.

For entrepreneurs looking to grow their network, Utah Tech Week connects with the broader Utah startup ecosystem resources regardless of industry or specialty. The event serves as a central gathering point for the tech community to help people start, build, and scale their businesses.

3) Startup Connectory Quarterly Meetup

The Startup Connectory hosts free quarterly events across Utah where entrepreneurs can connect and discuss business opportunities. These gatherings bring together founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts in a relaxed setting.

Each meetup focuses on networking and support for the Utah entrepreneur ecosystem. Attendees include a diverse mix of established business owners and new startups looking to make connections.

The events create a casual environment where participants can "geek out" about entrepreneurship and share ideas. This makes them perfect for newcomers to the startup scene who want to build their network.

Unlike more formal conferences, the Connectory meetups emphasize relationship-building and peer support. The quarterly schedule makes them accessible without overwhelming busy entrepreneurs' calendars.

These gatherings complement other Utah business networking opportunities by focusing specifically on the startup community. They serve as entry points to the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem in the state.

Registration for these events is typically straightforward, with details posted on the Grow Utah website ahead of each quarterly meetup.

4) Grow Utah Contests and Challenges

Grow Utah has been organizing startup contests since 2008, with over 30 contests held and more than $1 million in cash prizes awarded to date. These competitions are designed to support Utah's entrepreneurial ecosystem and help new businesses launch successfully.

The Concept to Company innovation contests are ongoing startup challenges held throughout Utah. They provide a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas and gain valuable support and recognition.

These contests encourage participation from various industries and regions within Utah. Winners receive not only funding but also mentorship and resources to help turn their concepts into viable companies.

Entrepreneurs can stay updated on upcoming startup contests and events through Grow Utah's notification system. This ensures you never miss an opportunity to participate in these valuable competitions.

The contests serve as a launching pad for many successful Utah startups. By participating, entrepreneurs gain exposure to investors, mentors, and potential business partners within the local ecosystem.

5) Startup State Initiative Events

The Startup State Initiative events offer businesses multiple opportunities to connect with Utah's entrepreneurial community. These gatherings bring together founders, investors, and industry experts throughout the year.

Events are hosted by different organizations including startups, venture capital firms, and community groups. They happen across various cities in Utah, making them accessible to entrepreneurs statewide.

Utah Tech Week is one of the main event series under this initiative. It features a range of experiences for Utah entrepreneurs looking to grow their networks and businesses.

Governor Cox officially launched the Startup State Initiative at the One Utah Summit in Salt Lake City on April 12, 2024. Since then, regular events have been scheduled to support the state's goal of becoming a premier startup destination.

To find upcoming events, entrepreneurs can visit the official Startup State website. The site maintains a current calendar of networking opportunities, workshops, and pitch competitions.

Most events are designed to be practical and action-oriented, focusing on real business challenges rather than just theory. This makes them valuable for startups at any stage of development.

6) Salt Lake City Tech Meetups

Salt Lake City has become a hub for tech enthusiasts looking to network and grow their businesses. These meetups offer startups valuable opportunities to connect with potential partners and investors.

The Utah Tech Events group (previously Tech Mondays) hosts regular gatherings focused on emerging technologies in Salt Lake City and Utah County. These events provide a platform for startups to showcase their innovations and meet like-minded professionals.

Entrepreneurs can find a comprehensive list of local tech events on platforms like Eventbrite. Many of these gatherings focus on specific niches such as AI, cybersecurity, and JavaScript development.

The Tech Meetups in Salt Lake City cover diverse topics relevant to growing businesses. Startups can attend specialized sessions on DevOps, IoT, and Agile methodology to improve their technical processes.

For tech employees considering entrepreneurship, specialized meetups address the transition from employee to founder. These events often feature successful local entrepreneurs sharing practical advice.

Most tech meetups in Salt Lake City are free or low-cost, making them accessible entry points into Utah's thriving startup ecosystem. They typically occur weekday evenings and include networking opportunities before and after presentations.

7) 1 Million Cups Salt Lake

1 Million Cups Salt Lake City is a free weekly event where entrepreneurs can present their startups and get feedback from the community. Founded in 2012 by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, this program has become a key resource in Utah's startup ecosystem.

The format is simple yet effective. Entrepreneurs give a 6-minute presentation followed by 20 minutes of Q&A with an audience of peers, mentors, service providers, and potential investors. This creates a valuable learning experience for both presenters and attendees.

These weekly entrepreneurial gatherings take place at SLC Work Club at Salt Lake Crossings, located at 470 West 200 North in Salt Lake City. The meetings aim to build a supportive business community where connections happen naturally.

1 Million Cups serves as the "front door" to the local entrepreneurial scene, connecting aspiring business owners with resources they need. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or new to the startup world, the Salt Lake City 1MC community welcomes participants at all stages.

The event brings together Utah Valley entrepreneurs seeking community support in a collaborative environment. It's a practical way to network, learn, and grow your business in Utah's thriving startup landscape.

8) Utah Governor's Office Startup Forums

The Utah Governor's Office hosts regular startup forums to support the state's growing entrepreneurial community. These events bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to discuss economic opportunities and initiatives.

As part of the Startup State Initiative events, these forums provide valuable networking opportunities for new businesses. They typically feature presentations from state economic and industry leaders about the latest innovations and programs.

The forums are free to attend and open to the public. They're designed specifically to support Utah's entrepreneur and startup ecosystem.

The Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity curates these events alongside other statewide entrepreneurship events throughout the year. This helps reinforce the startup community across Utah.

Business owners can expect to learn about new funding opportunities, state resources, and connect with potential partners or investors. The forums often highlight success stories from Utah-based startups.

These events align with Utah's commitment to becoming known as "The Startup State" - a hub for innovation and business growth in the western United States.

9) Startup Moves Virtual Job Fair

The Startup Moves Virtual Job Fair connects Utah startups with talented professionals seeking opportunities in the tech ecosystem. This online event typically occurs quarterly, allowing companies to showcase positions while job seekers can attend from anywhere.

The fair features video interviews, live chat options, and digital resume submissions. Companies can set up virtual booths highlighting their culture, benefits, and open positions without the logistical challenges of physical events.

Registration costs vary by company size, with early bird discounts available for Utah startup community members. Most startups find the investment worthwhile due to the targeted candidate pool and reduced recruitment costs.

Job seekers can browse opportunities across various specialties including software development, marketing, sales, and operations. The platform allows filtering by job type, experience level, and compensation range.

The fair typically draws over 500 candidates and 30-40 companies per session. Many Utah startups have reported finding quality hires through these virtual career events, making them an effective recruitment channel for growing companies.

10) Utah Energy and Economy Innovation Conference

The Utah Energy Week event is scheduled for September 15-18, 2025. This four-day conference focuses on energy innovation and economic opportunities across the state.

Business leaders and entrepreneurs can connect with key players in Utah's energy sector during this event. The conference showcases the latest initiatives and technologies driving Utah's energy future.

The event builds on Utah's growing reputation for economic opportunity and innovation. Sessions typically cover renewable energy, sustainability practices, and market trends affecting business development.

Startup founders will find valuable networking opportunities with potential investors and partners interested in energy-related ventures. The conference often features pitch sessions for new energy technologies and solutions.

Registration information will be available closer to the event date. Early registration is recommended as this has become one of Utah's premier events for connecting energy innovation with economic development strategies.

The Impact Of Major Startup Events On Utah's Innovation Ecosystem

Startup events in Utah create powerful ripple effects throughout the state's business landscape, connecting entrepreneurs with resources while fueling economic expansion.

Fostering Networking And Collaboration

Major startup events create vital connection points for Utah's entrepreneurial community. The One Utah Summit brings together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to discuss economic opportunities and forge strategic partnerships. These gatherings enable founders to meet potential co-founders, mentors, and technical talent.

Face-to-face interactions at these events often spark new business ideas and collaborative ventures. Many Utah startups trace their origins to chance meetings at local tech meetups or formal pitch competitions.

Industry experts regularly participate in panel discussions and workshops, sharing practical insights on overcoming common startup challenges. These knowledge-sharing opportunities prove especially valuable for first-time founders navigating unfamiliar territory.

Events also strengthen ties between Utah's five industry-aligned innovation ecosystems, creating cross-sector opportunities that might otherwise remain undiscovered.

Driving Investment And Economic Growth

Utah's startup events play a crucial role in attracting capital to the state's emerging businesses. Pitch competitions and demo days give founders platforms to showcase their innovations directly to angel investors and venture capitalists.

These events highlight Utah's thriving business environment on a national stage, drawing out-of-state investment firms looking for opportunities beyond traditional tech hubs. The increased visibility has helped Utah companies secure funding at earlier stages than previously possible.

The economic impact extends beyond individual companies. Successful startups create jobs, increase tax revenue, and often establish headquarters in Utah rather than relocating.

University participation in these events strengthens academic-industry partnerships, accelerating technology transfer from research labs to marketable products. This connection helps Utah maintain its position as a leader in innovation capacity nationwide.

Strategies For Maximizing Value At Utah Startup Events

Attending startup events in Utah requires preparation and clear goals to turn brief interactions into valuable business opportunities.

Best Practices For First-Time Attendees

Research events before attending to match your business needs. The One Utah Summit entrepreneur challenge offers excellent networking with emerging brands and is free to attend, making it perfect for newcomers.

Set specific goals for each event. Decide if you're seeking investors, partners, or mentors. Having clear objectives helps you focus your conversations.

Prepare a concise elevator pitch. Practice explaining your business in 30 seconds or less. Include:

• What problem you solve
• How you solve it
• What makes your approach unique

Bring business cards and a digital portfolio. Many Utah events like Utah Tech Week feature impromptu meetings where quick information exchange is crucial.

Dress professionally but comfortably. Utah startup culture tends to be more casual than other business environments, but first impressions still matter.

Building Lasting Connections

Follow up within 48 hours after meeting someone. Send a personalized email referencing your conversation and suggesting next steps.

Be generous with your knowledge. Offering help before asking for favors builds stronger relationships in Utah's tight-knit startup community.

Join relevant online groups where Utah entrepreneurs gather between physical events. The digital conversation continues year-round through various platforms.

Attend smaller workshops offered through programs like the Utah Startup University Seminar Series, which provides more intimate settings for deeper conversations than large conferences.

Create a system to track contacts. Note where you met people, what you discussed, and potential collaboration opportunities.

Consider volunteering at events. Helping with registration or as a session monitor puts you in direct contact with organizers and speakers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Utah offers a rich landscape of startup events and resources that address common queries from entrepreneurs and business leaders. These include funding sources, networking opportunities, and major tech gatherings.

What are the signature events during Utah Tech Week?

Utah Tech Week features several key events that attract founders and investors. The main conference includes keynote speeches from successful tech entrepreneurs and venture capitalists.

Product demonstrations and workshops on emerging technologies form a critical part of the week. Many attendees value the hands-on sessions covering artificial intelligence, blockchain, and SaaS development.

Evening networking receptions and startup showcases round out the week, providing casual settings for relationship building. These events typically take place at various venues throughout Salt Lake City and Lehi.

Where can I find information about Startup Grind in Salt Lake City?

Startup Grind Salt Lake City maintains an active chapter with monthly events featuring successful local entrepreneurs. Their website provides a calendar of upcoming fireside chats and networking opportunities.

The Utah Startup Connectory lists Startup Grind events along with other entrepreneurial gatherings. Registration for these events is typically available through the Startup Grind website or their social media channels.

Email newsletters from Startup Grind SLC deliver updates on speakers, venues, and special opportunities for members. Many entrepreneurs find these events valuable for making connections with investors and potential partners.

Which are the notable pitch competitions for startups in Utah?

The Utah Entrepreneur Challenge offers significant prize money and exposure to university-affiliated startups. This annual competition attracts teams from colleges across the state.

Grow Utah hosts industry-specific pitch competitions throughout the year, focusing on sectors like healthcare, outdoor products, and technology. Winners often receive both funding and mentorship opportunities.

The Silicon Slopes Startup Competition during the annual Tech Summit draws the largest audience and typically features more established early-stage companies. Many past winners have gone on to secure significant venture funding.

How can entrepreneurs in Salt Lake City connect with the local startup ecosystem?

Entrepreneurs can join tech meetups and conferences in Salt Lake City to build their network. These gatherings happen weekly throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Coworking spaces like Impact Hub, Kiln, and Industry provide environments where connections happen naturally. Many of these spaces host their own events specifically designed for member networking.

Industry associations such as Utah Technology Council and Women Tech Council offer membership programs with access to exclusive events. These organizations typically provide mentorship opportunities and educational resources.

What networking opportunities are available at Utah tech events?

Structured networking sessions at conferences like the One Utah Summit pair entrepreneurs with potential investors. These often use matchmaking software to ensure relevant connections.

Evening socials and after-parties at major events provide casual settings for relationship building. Many deals and partnerships begin during these less formal gatherings.

Industry-specific meetups focus on niche areas like fintech, healthcare IT, or education technology. These specialized events attract participants with aligned interests and complementary skills.

What is Silicon Slopes, and how does it relate to Utah-based companies?

Silicon Slopes refers to both the geographic region and the non-profit organization supporting Utah's startup ecosystem. The term encompasses the tech corridor from Salt Lake City to Provo.

The organization hosts the annual Silicon Slopes Tech Summit, Utah's largest tech conference. This event draws thousands of attendees and features prominent speakers from global technology companies.

Silicon Slopes publishes resources, advocates for policy changes, and creates programs that benefit Utah startups. Many local companies leverage the Silicon Slopes brand to attract talent and investment to the region.

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