Big Bad Business: Entrepreneur Hacks for 2025
2025-01-22 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | The Powerhouse, 413 S. 14th St., Oxford, MS, 38655, United States
Big Bad Business is back and ready for 2025! Join us on Wednesday, January 22nd, for a meetup featuring entrepreneur hacks from our experts: Matt Parham, Bank of Commerce, Will Pipes, Adelphos Consulting, Marie Cope, University of Mississippi Transactional Law Clinic, Chris Green, Oxford Media Group, and Allen Kurr, Oxford-Lafayette Economic Development Foundation & University of Mississippi Small Business Development Center.
This workshop is free to attend and open to all entrepreneurs with a special emphasis on those in creative fields.
***YAC is offering a special opportunity for entrepreneurs: free headshots! Come between 5:30 pm and 6 pm and get a free headshot to use for your small business. Subject to allowable time.***
For questions related to the workshop or to different abilities, please email outreachyac@gmail.com. The Big Bad Business Series is funded in part through a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Mississippi Arts Commission.
Register here: https://www.oxfordarts.com/shop/product/5768-bbb12225

Mississippi’s Tech Startup Weekend
2025-01-24 - 2025-01-26
Join us for a fun, learning-filled weekend where we will guide you through what it takes to assess the market potential of a technology.
By Sunday, participants will build and pitch a business idea based around a technology from our portfolio. Winners of the competition will be set up with tech licensing & grant writing opportunities.
Learn more and Apply here: https://www.techms.info/

Connect & Emerge Event Planning Conference
2025-01-28 08:30 - 2025-01-29 15:30 | PRCC Woodall Center, 906 Sullivan Dr,, Hattiesburg, 39401, United States
Get inspiration, resources, and connections that will transform your work.
What You Will Experience:

Engaging sessions with important topics for anyone involved in events
Sponsor tables showcasing the latest products, services and information
Delicious meals provided by local chefs and caterers who will share powerful insights to enhance food and beverage at your events
Opportunities to share your resources at our Attendee Resource Table (bring your info!)
Light bulb moments and serendipity as you find new ideas, inspiration, and new connections for future collaborations
All-day hot and cold beverages, including a coffee and tea bar, to fuel your day
Maybe most importantly, a chance for you to take time for YOU. The events industry is HARD. Let us take care of you for a day or two!

Conference topics include:

Resources, tips, tricks and trends for events
Event regulations and permits
Event marketing
Event safety and risk management
Food and beverage trends and demos
Managing music and entertainment
Attendee management and the attendee experience
Fundraising and sponsorships
Volunteer and event staff management
Event setup and logistics
Technology and events
Accessibility at events
Finding and managing event speakers
Power of collaboration
Events on a budget
And more!

Register here: https://www.emergeevents.com/connect/

Ignite Leadership Conference
2025-01-30 08:00 - 12:00 | The Orchard, 1379 N Coley Rd, Tupelo, MS, 38801, United States
The Community Development Foundation believes at our community’s core, the ultimate catalyst for growth is the ability to identify, engage and ignite the right people. Ignite is a leadership conference featuring world-class speakers, incredible peer-to-peer interaction and an energizing atmosphere. Ignite will get you what you need to grow your leadership skills or those of your entire team.
Three impactful speakers will guide the day through an inspiring journey to ignite the leader in you and your community.
Ignite is not just a chance to hear some incredible speakers, but it is also your opportunity to build your network with other great leaders in your community.
Ignite will be held at The Orchard located at 1379 N Coley Rd Tupelo, Mississippi 38801 on January 30th from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Learn more and register here: https://www.igniteleadership.com/

CONNECT: Networking for Entrepreneurs
2025-02-06 16:30 - 18:30, 2025-03-06 16:30 - 18:30, 2025-05-01 16:30 - 18:30, 2025-06-05 16:30 - 18:30 | Fertile Ground Beer Co., 800 Manship St Suite 101, Jackson, MS, 39202
CONNECT is an opportunity for entrepreneurs, mentors, investors and anyone interested in entrepreneurship and innovation to network and form meaningful relationships.
CONNECT is held the first Thursday of every month from 4:30 -6:30 pm. This month we will be meeting at the Fertile Ground, 800 Manship St., Jackson, MS.
Join us at Fertile Ground and enjoy a cash bar and plenty of food options available for purchase while you connect.
We hope to see you there!
Register here
Fertile Ground:
800 Manship Street #Suite 101 Jackson, MS 39202

2025 America's Seed Fund Week - Virtual Road Tour
2025-02-11 - 2025-02-13
America’s Seed Fund Week is a series of virtual events representing a collaborative outreach effort that will connect entrepreneurs working on advanced technologies and the organizations that support them to the country’s largest source of early-stage funding.
This is a free and virtual opportunity for small businesses to learn about non-dilutive funding available through America’s Seed Fund that awards $4 billion annually to small businesses for R&D. Come and meet with federal agency representatives, attend roundtables, connect with Federal And State Technology (FAST) organizations, and find other helpful resources.
Learn more and Register here: https://www.americasseedfund.us/america-s-seed-fund-week

Open House at Office Evolution of Flowood
2025-02-20 14:00 - 17:00 | Office Evolution of Flowood, 10 Canebrake Blvd Suite 110, Flowood, MS, 39232, United States
Mark your calendars! Next Thursday, February 20, from 2-5 PM, Office Evolution of Flowood is hosting a Mardi Gras-themed Open House!
Come explore this dynamic coworking space while enjoying King Cake, sparkling white wine, and a chance to win a Table 100 gift card in our raffle!
10 Canebrake Blvd Suite 110 Flowood MS 39232
769-333-8822
flowood.ms@officeevolution.com

Mississippi Health Innovation Conference
2025-02-24 08:00 - 17:00 | Christian Center at Millsaps College, 1701 N State St, Jackson, 39202, United States
Some of the most important leaders in healthcare attend MSHIC
The Mississippi Health Innovation Conference is a collaboration between the School of Business Administration at University of Mississippi and some of the most renowned physicians, innovators, educators, investors, payers, providers, and policymakers who are leading the future of healthcare in the US.
Time: February 24, 8am – 5pm
Location: Christian Center at Millsaps College, 1701 N State St, Jackson, MS 39202
Register here: https://mshic.org/

SmartTech Advanced Manufacturing Competition Award Ceremony
2025-03-07 14:30 - 17:00 | MSU CAVS – Extension, 153 Mississippi Pkwy, Canton, MS, 39046, United States
After months of competition, the SmartTech MS Advanced Manufacturing Prize has reached its final stage! Back in January, we challenged founders across the state to push the boundaries of manufacturing innovation—and they delivered. From optimizing processes to enhancing efficiency, the submissions showcased groundbreaking technologies shaping the future of the industry.
Now, it’s time to celebrate the finalists and award $35,000 in prizes to the top innovators:
🏆 Mississippi Advanced Manufacturing Champion – $25,000
🥈 Mississippi Advanced Manufacturing Innovator – $10,000
Join us as we celebrate Mississippi’s top manufacturing innovators.
📅 Date: March 7, 2025
⏰ Time: 2:30 PM
📍 Location: MS State University CAVS – Extension, 153 Mississippi Pkwy, Canton, MS 39046

Gulf Blue Networking - Building the Blue Economy
2025-03-12 17:00 - 19:00 | Gulf Blue, 2605 13th Street, Gulfport, MS, 39501, United States
Building the Blue Economy networking series.
This is an open networking event welcoming innovators and practitioners alike.
We will feature a bluetech innovator each month!
Snacks, beer & wine will be served with the kind support Chandeleur Island Brewing.
Location: 2605 13th Street, Gulfport, MS 39501
Date and time: Wed, Mar 12, 2025 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Register here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/v85s5yf

New Orleans Entrepreneur Week 2025
2025-03-24 - 2025-03-29 | Loyola University, 6363 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA, 70118, United States
Join us at New Orleans Entrepreneur Week (NOEW) 2025, Monday, March 24 – Saturday, March 29, 2025, for a week-long celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and culture in the Gulf South. NOEW 2025 brings together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and the local community for a dynamic experience unlike any other.
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-orleans-entrepreneur-week-2025-registration-1095462651279

Spark Webinar Series
2025-03-25 12:00 - 13:00
Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network have teamed up to bring free, high-impact webinars designed to equip small businesses and entrepreneurs with the knowledge, resources, and connections they need to grow and thrive.
The first session launches March 25 with “New Year, New Venture – Turn Your Idea into Reality.” Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining a long-held idea, this FREE webinar will help you evaluate your business concept, access essential resources, and take your first steps with confidence.

📅 March 25 | noon – 1 PM
💻 Online & Free
🔥 Register now and ignite your entrepreneurial journey. https://startupspace.app/v2/dynamic-survey/view/402/2153

2025 3rd Coast Venture Summit
2025-03-26 - 2025-03-28
Join us in New Orleans for the inaugural 3rd Coast Venture Summit, a 3-day event connecting top Gulf South startup founders with nationwide investors, business leaders, and corporate partners.
Investor and Founder Tickets Unlock:

1:1 Meetings and Networking: Network and set up meetings directly with investors, founders, industry leaders, and other venture ecosystem stakeholders through the 3rd Coast Venture Summit (3CVS) app! Also enjoy invite-only breakfasts and dinners.
Speaker and Keynote Sessions: Dive into the latest trends, insights, and strategies shaping the future of startups and innovation.
Live Pitches Across Industries: Witness dozens of groundbreaking ventures and cutting-edge companies presenting live on stage.
Dine & Explore New Orleans: Immerse yourself in New Orleans culture while networking over curated food, music, and more.

The event will begin with a reception on Wednesday afternoon on March 26th with an investor ONLY half-day of programming, followed by curated dinners in a series of top New Orleans restaurants. The main summit will take place all day on Thursday, March 27th on Tulane University’s uptown campus with back-to-back pitches across industries, keynote speakers, and abundant meeting space. Thursday will culminate with an “after party” at a signature New Orleans music venue (similar to last year at Tipitina’s!). Friday will conclude the event with light programming and breakfast available before departures.
For travel purposes, plan to fly into MSY airport; hotel blocks and further recommendations of where to stay will be shared at a later date.
Please reach out to hello@thirdcoastventuresummit.com if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you there!
Register here: https://thirdcoastventuresummit.brella.io/join/2025/tickets

Mississippi Entrepreneurship Forum
2025-04-03 - 2025-04-04 | Embassy Suites Ridgeland, 200 Township Ave, Ridgeland, MS, 39157, United States
The Mississippi Entrepreneurship Forum is an event that brings together entrepreneurs, economic developers, innovators, and future business owners from across the state. Hosted by the University of Mississippi’s Grisham-McLean Institute for Public Service and Community Engagement, this forum serves as a collaborative platform to promote entrepreneurship, share best practices, and discuss community and economic development in Mississippi.
Register here: https://meforum.olemiss.edu/

CONNECT: Networking for Entrepreneurs
2025-04-03 16:30 - 18:30 | Embassy Suites Ridgeland, 200 Township Ave, Ridgeland, MS, 39157, United States
CONNECT is an opportunity for entrepreneurs, mentors, investors and anyone interested in entrepreneurship and innovation to network and form meaningful relationships.
CONNECT is held the first Thursday of every month from 4:30 -6:30 pm. This month we will be meeting at Embassy Suites, 200 Township Ave., Ridgeland, MS.
Join us at Embassy Suites and enjoy a cash bar and plenty of food options available for purchase while you connect.
We hope to see you there!
Register here
Embassy Suites:
200 Township Ave., Ridgeland, MS 39157

SBIR/STTR Launchpad Summit
2025-04-09 09:30 - 14:00 | MCITY Vicksburg, 1622 Washington St, Vicksburg, MS, 39180, United States
Are you an entrepreneur, startup founder, or researcher developing cutting-edge technology? The SBIR/STTR Launchpad Summit is your opportunity to learn how to access early-stage, non-dilutive federal funding to bring your innovation to market!

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs provide billions in funding each year to support technology commercialization. At this summit, you’ll:

Discover how to apply for SBIR/STTR funding

Gain expert insights on strategies and agency priorities

Connect with industry professionals, government agencies, and fellow innovators

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

MCITy, 1622 Washington St. Vicksburg, MS 39180

Register here by March 30th

Don’t miss this chance to take your innovation to the next level with federal support. Register today and get ready to launch!

Startup Summit 2025
2025-04-24 - 2025-04-25 | Starkville, Mississippi
Join us at the MSU Center for Entrepreneurship & Outreach Startup Summit Pitch Competition for an action-packed 2-day event where bold founders will hit the stage to pitch their big ideas, compete for cash prizes, and connect with Mississippi’s vibrant entrepreneurial community.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or an investor scouting your next great prospect, you’ll find energy, innovation, and inspiration in every pitch. Come for the ideas, stay for the connections, and be part of the movement shaping Mississippi’s future.
Event Details:
-April 24th: Mississippi Made Pitch Competition at McCool Hall, MSU Campus 10:00 am-6:30 pm
-April 25th: Bulldog Business National Pitch Competition and Reception – The Mill Conference Center, 3:00 pm-7:30 pm. Free networking reception open to the public to celebrate all the contestants and small businesses.
This event is part of Mississippi’s statewide pitch network, powered by Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network. Together, they provide two pitch pathways—one for high-growth startups and another for traditional small businesses. If a founder’s venture shows strong high-growth potential, they may even earn an invitation to join the CoBuilders Accelerator.
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0003 awarded to Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

The Bean Path Pitch Competition
2025-05-05 10:00 - 13:00 | The Bean Path Makerspace, 451 N Gallatin Street, Jackson, MS, 39203, United States
Join us at the Bean Path Pitch Competition for an action-packed event where bold founders will hit the stage to pitch their big ideas, compete for cash prizes, and connect with Mississippi’s vibrant entrepreneurial community.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or an investor scouting your next great prospect, you’ll find energy, innovation, and inspiration in every pitch. Come for the ideas, stay for the connections, and be part of the movement shaping Mississippi’s future.

Location: The Maker Space, 451 North Gallatin, Jackson, MS 39203
Time: 10am – 1pm

This event is part of Mississippi’s statewide pitch network, powered by Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network. Together, they provide two pitch pathways—one for high-growth startups and another for traditional small businesses. If a founder’s venture shows strong high-growth potential, they may even earn an invitation to join the CoBuilders Accelerator.
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0003 awarded to Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Mississippi Polymer Institute Pitch Competition
2025-05-15 10:00 - 18:00 | Mississippi Polymer Institute, 46 Shelby Thames Drive, Hattiesburg, MS, 39402, United States
Join us at the Mississippi Polymer Institute Pitch Competition for an action-packed event where bold founders will hit the stage to pitch their big ideas, compete for cash prizes, and connect with Mississippi’s vibrant entrepreneurial community.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or an investor scouting your next great prospect, you’ll find energy, innovation, and inspiration in every pitch. Come for the ideas, stay for the connections, and be part of the movement shaping Mississippi’s future.

Location: Mississippi Polymer Institute, 46 Shelby Thames Drive, Hattiesburg, MS 39402
Time: 10am-6pm
Interested in applying to pitch? Sign up below!
https://www.thepolymerinstitute.com/pitch-event
This event is part of Mississippi’s statewide pitch network, powered by Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network. Together, they provide two pitch pathways—one for high-growth startups and another for traditional small businesses. If a founder’s venture shows strong high-growth potential, they may even earn an invitation to join the CoBuilders Accelerator.

This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0003 awarded to Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Higher Purpose Hub Pitch Competition
2025-05-15 11:00 - 16:00 | Club Ebony, 404 Hanna Ave, Indianola, MS, 38751, United States
Join us at the Higher Purpose Hub Pitch Competition for an action-packed event where bold founders will hit the stage to pitch their big ideas, compete for cash prizes, and connect with Mississippi’s vibrant entrepreneurial community.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or an investor scouting your next great prospect, you’ll find energy, innovation, and inspiration in every pitch. Come for the ideas, stay for the connections, and be part of the movement shaping Mississippi’s future.

Location: Club Ebony, 404 Hanna Ave, Indianola, MS 38751
Time: 11am-4pm

This event is part of Mississippi’s statewide pitch network, powered by Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network. Together, they provide two pitch pathways—one for high-growth startups and another for traditional small businesses. If a founder’s venture shows strong high-growth potential, they may even earn an invitation to join the CoBuilders Accelerator.
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0003 awarded to Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Gulf Coast Business Council/The Meeting Place Pitch Competition
2025-06-10 | Hospitality Resort Management Center, 420 Debuys Rd, Biloxi, MS, United States
Join us at the Gulf Coast Business Council/The Meeting Place Pitch Competition in Biloxi for an action-packed event where bold founders will hit the stage to pitch their big ideas, compete for cash prizes, and connect with Mississippi’s vibrant entrepreneurial community.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or an investor scouting your next great prospect, you’ll find energy, innovation, and inspiration in every pitch. Come for the ideas, stay for the connections, and be part of the movement shaping Mississippi’s future.

Location: Hospitality Resort Management Center, 420 Debuys Rd, Biloxi, MS
Time: TBD
Interested in applying to pitch? Sign up below! Deadline to apply: April 30th
https://startupgulfcoast.com/
This event is part of Mississippi’s statewide pitch network, powered by Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network. Together, they provide two pitch pathways—one for high-growth startups and another for traditional small businesses. If a founder’s venture shows strong high-growth potential, they may even earn an invitation to join the CoBuilders Accelerator.

This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0003 awarded to Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Oxford Pitch Competition
2025-06-12 | Oxford Conference Center, 102 Ed Perry Blvd, Oxford, MS, 38655, United States
Pitch. Win. Accelerate.
Join us at the Oxford/Lafayette Economic Development Foundation Pitch Competition in Oxford for a high-energy event where you’ll pitch your business, compete for cash prizes, and connect with Mississippi’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
This business pitch competition, powered by Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network, offers two distinct pitch pathways – one for high growth startups and another for traditional small businesses.

Traditional & Main Street Businesses (MSBDCN Track)
High-Growth Innovation & Technology (Innovate MS Track)

Participants can apply through this single shared application and both tracks offer cash prizes, valuable exposure, and 1-1 business coaching. Only a limited number of finalists will be selected from the applicant pool and invited to pitch, however all applicants will be connected with small business development resources and invited to join the entrepreneurial community in cheering on our finalists on pitch day.
Location: Oxford Conference Center, 102 Ed Perry Blvd, Oxford, MS 38655
Time: TBD
Apply here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/K5V9NDQ
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0003 awarded to Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

The Community Development Foundation Pitch Competition
2025-06-16 | Renasant Center for Ideas, 398 E Main St, Tupelo, MS, 38804, United States
Join us at the Community Development Foundation Pitch Competition for an action-packed event where bold founders will hit the stage to pitch their big ideas, compete for cash prizes, and connect with Mississippi’s vibrant entrepreneurial community.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or an investor scouting your next great prospect, you’ll find energy, innovation, and inspiration in every pitch. Come for the ideas, stay for the connections, and be part of the movement shaping Mississippi’s future.

Location: The Renasant Center for Ideas (Tupelo, MS)
Time: TBD

This event is part of Mississippi’s statewide pitch network, powered by Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network. Together, they provide two pitch pathways—one for high-growth startups and another for traditional small businesses. If a founder’s venture shows strong high-growth potential, they may even earn an invitation to join the CoBuilders Accelerator.
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0003 awarded to Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Southern Spark 2025
2025-06-16 - 2025-06-17 | Mississippi E-Center at Jackson State University, 1230 Raymond Rd, Jackson, MS, 39204, United States
Get ready for Southern Spark 2025, Mississippi’s premier AI conference, hosted by the Mississippi AI Collaborative. This two-day event will take place on June 16–17 at the Mississippi E-Center at Jackson State University and is designed to ignite innovation, foster collaboration, and accelerate AI adoption across the Southern U.S.

What to Expect:

Keynote Speakers: Gain insights from leading figures in AI and education, including David Collins, Management Consultant at Innovate Mississippi and CEO of Read Beans Group; Bob Buseck, Executive Director at Mississippi Coding Academies; and Shaina Glass, Director of Education at the Computer Science Teachers Association.
Tailored Tracks: Choose from specialized tracks in education, business, and community engagement, each offering sessions, panels, and workshops tailored to your interests and professional needs.
Hands-On Learning: Participate in interactive workshops and demonstrations that showcase practical AI applications, providing you with tools and knowledge to implement AI solutions effectively.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with educators, industry leaders, technologists, and community innovators from across Mississippi and the Southern region to foster partnerships and collaborations.
Showcasing Local Initiatives: Learn about impactful programs like the AI Educator Accelerator and the AI Agency, which are driving AI integration in education and supporting small businesses through AI-powered solutions.

All attendees will enjoy catered meals and refreshments throughout the event. For accommodation, the Hilton on Capitol Street is the conference hotel of choice, with shuttle services provided between the hotel and the venue.
mississippiai.org

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of shaping the future of AI in Mississippi and beyond. Register now to secure your spot at Southern Spark 2025. https://whova.com/portal/registration/rhk70@wv3xz8BnArTFGR/

UMMC’s Open House and CO | LAB
2025-06-19 10:00 - 15:00 | UMMC CO | LAB, 2500 N State Street, TRC 315, Jackson, MS, 39216, United States
You are invited to UMMC’s Open House and CO | LAB co-working space showcase on Thursday June 19 at 10 am 2500 N State Street, TRC 315. This open house and showcase are open to the public, but require registration. Please register here.
The public is also welcome to attend a pitching / Storytelling session led by Permjot Valia. Permjot is an expert in commercialization and has worked with startups worldwide. The Storytelling session will be later that afternoon starting at 1:30pm in room CW106, and is also open to the public, but the session requires registration. Please register here.

MSU at MCITy Vicksburg Pitch Competition
2025-06-26 12:00 - 17:00 | MCITY Vicksburg, 1622 Washington St, Vicksburg, MS, 39180, United States
Join us at the MCITy Pitch Competition for an action-packed event where bold founders will hit the stage to pitch their big ideas, compete for cash prizes, and connect with Mississippi’s vibrant entrepreneurial community.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or an investor scouting your next great prospect, you’ll find energy, innovation, and inspiration in every pitch. Come for the ideas, stay for the connections, and be part of the movement shaping Mississippi’s future.

Location: 1622 Washington St, Vicksburg, MS

This event is part of Mississippi’s statewide pitch network, powered by Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network. Together, they provide two pitch pathways—one for high-growth startups and another for traditional small businesses. If a founder’s venture shows strong high-growth potential, they may even earn an invitation to join the CoBuilders Accelerator.
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0003 awarded to Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Pitch, Then Connect – Vicksburg Edition
2025-06-26 12:00 - 19:00 | MCITY Vicksburg, 1622 Washington St, Vicksburg, MS, 39180, United States
Wednesday, June 26 at MCITy – 1622 Washington Street, 2nd Floor, Vicksburg, MS 39180
🎤 12:00 – 5:00 PM: Cheer on Mississippi’s boldest founders as they pitch innovative ideas at the MSU @ MCITy Vicksburg Pitch Competition. It’s your chance to witness the next wave of high-growth startups and see who’s ready to take the leap toward investor readiness.
🤝 5:00 – 7:00 PM: Stick around for Connect Vicksburg, a relaxed networking happy hour inspired by Innovate Mississippi’s monthly CONNECT events. Enjoy food and beer from Key City Brewery while connecting with founders, mentors, investors, and fellow innovation enthusiasts. Whether you’re building a startup or just curious about the ecosystem, come share ideas and raise a glass to Mississippi’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Free and open to all—come for the pitches, stay for the people.
