Innovate Mississippi

Mississippi Science Fest Tech Summit
2024-09-18 08:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Jackson State University Student Center, 1328 John R. Lynch Street, Jackson, MS, 39203, United States
Join us on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 for our Tech Summit at Jackson State University, powered by Great City Mississippi Foundation and Amazon Web Services InCommunities! Topics during this day will include STEAM education, preparing the workforce for the technology and AI-based jobs of the future, and how communities can develop plans to capitalize on the new technological opportunities for growth.
Keynote speakers will discuss topics related to the future of tech in Jackson, Mississippi including “The Jackson Research Hub,” “The Promise of Technology for Educators and the Workforce,” and “Today’s Tinkerers are Tomorrow’s Innovators.”

Breakfast & Lunch Included
Free & Open to Public
Registration Required

Student Center at Jackson State University
8:00am – 2:00pm
Registration Opens at 7:30am
Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdv2Dp_By2F4fVKdbhn9OpRkggYQUTeBDQG31FL9R6pmrdzuw/viewform?fbzx=-9065760812562570815

CONNECT: Networking for Entrepreneurs
2024-10-03 16:30 - 18:30, 2024-12-05 16:30 - 18:30, 2025-02-06 16:30 - 18:30, 2025-03-06 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

Innovations in Lending - Connect Gulf Coast
2024-10-16 15:00 - 17:00 | Ground Zero Blues Club, 814 Howard Ave, Biloxi, MS, 39530, United States
Doors open at 3 PM and snacks/non-alcoholic drinks will be available.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND WILL CLOSE AT MIDNIGHT ON 10/15/2024.
Panel discussion begins at 3:30 PM and wraps at 4:30 PM giving participants and panelists 30 minutes before and after to start building relationships.
Don’t forget your business cards! If you don’t have those yet, create a QR code for your contact information!
Panelists Include:
1. Dennis Tynes with Voyager Lending
– SBA Funding, Creative Strategies
– Special Thanks to Voyager Lending for being our lead sponsor for this event!
2. Ronnie Emile with South Mississippi Planning and Development District
– Supplemental Funds, Revolving Loans, Minority Lending
3. Tevin Prince with Merchants and Marine Bank
– Traditional Lending (Lines of Credit, Construction Loans, Commercial Real Estate Loans, Equipment & Machinery Loans, Inventory Loans, Acquisition Loans)
4. April Williams with MS Small Business Development Center
– Start up Options
– Business Plan Development (ALL the lenders want one!)
5. Geneva Dummer with the South Mississippi Angel Investment Fund (and your panel moderator).
– Investor options and basic requirements

Wed, Oct 16, 2024, 1:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi
814 Howard Ave, Biloxi, MS, US, 39530
Register Here: https://forms.gle/3WHi342hz5fceCiWA

Tech & Tacos! Networking Mixer
2024-10-22 17:30 - 19:30 | Bean Path Makerspace, 451 N. Gallatin St ., Jackson, MS, 39203, United States
Welcome to Tech & Tacos! Networking Mixer! Join us for a fun evening of networking and delicious tacos at Bean Path Makerspace. Connect with fellow tech enthusiasts, share ideas, and enjoy some tasty treats. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out in the tech world, this event is perfect for making new connections and expanding your network. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to mingle, learn, and of course, enjoy some tacos! See you there!
Bean Path Makerspace
451 N Gallatin St Jackson, MS 39203
Reserve your spot here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tech-tacos-networking-mixer-tickets-1010844843137

The Bean Path 6th Anniversary Block Party!
2024-10-26 10:00 - 13:30 | Bean Path Makerspace, 451 N. Gallatin St ., Jackson, MS, 39203, United States
Get ready for The Bean Path’s Annual Block Party, a vibrant celebration of community, technology, and innovation! This fun-filled event brings together the community, tech enthusiasts, and local entrepreneurs for a day of music, FREE food, and interactive games and FUN! With live entertainment, tech demonstrations, games, and give-a-ways for all ages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re curious about the latest tech trends or just looking to connect with your community, come out and experience the joy of innovation in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.
Saturday, October 26 · 10am – 1:30pm CDT
Bean Path Makerspace
451 N Gallatin St Jackson, MS 39203
RSVP Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/6th-anniversary-block-party-tickets-1038900588627

A Day With NASA Stennis Space Center
2024-11-07 08:00 - 12:00 | The USM Innovation and Commercialization Park and Accelerator, 46 Shelby Thames Drive, Hattiesburg, MS, 39402, United States
Welcome to A Day With NASA Stennis Space Center! Join us on Thu Nov 07 2024 at 08:00 AM for an exciting event at The USM Innovation and Commercialization Park and Accelerator. We are excited to invite you to a unique event designed specifically for business owners interested in exploring opportunities to collaborate with NASA. This is a fantastic chance to learn how your business can engage with one of the most innovative organizations in the world.
What to Expect:

Insightful Presentations: Hear from experts on NASA’s procurement process and the types of projects available for collaboration.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow business owners and potential partners.
Q&A Session: Get your questions answered by NASA representatives and industry leaders.

Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or new to government contracting, this event will provide valuable insights and resources to help your business thrive.
Thursday, November 7 · 8am – 12pm CST
The USM Innovation and Commercialization Park and Accelerator
46 Shelby Thames Drive Hattiesburg, MS 39402
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-day-with-nasa-stennis-space-center-tickets-1022836560687

Gulf Blue Networking - Building the Blue Economy
2024-11-13 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, Nov 13, 2024 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Register here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/vf68rxu

Accelerate 2024
2024-11-19 - 2024-11-20 | The Westin Jackson, 407 South Congress Street , Jackson, MS, 39201, United States
Get ready for Accelerate 2024, happening November 19-20 at The Westin Jackson! This year, we’re celebrating 25 years of innovation with the theme, “You Can Build It Here.” This annual event is all about collaboration—bringing people together, sharing resources, and building partnerships to strengthen Mississippi’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. And the best part? You can do all of this right here in Mississippi! If you’re passionate about fostering a vibrant environment for startups to thrive and succeed, this is the event you won’t want to miss.

The Conference on Technology Innovation offers a unique opportunity to connect with Mississippi’s leading stakeholders, network with industry experts, explore cutting-edge trends, and gain inspiration for your next big idea. Hosted by Innovate Mississippi, we’re excited to welcome attendees, vendors, and sponsors from across the state and beyond. Don’t miss your chance to shape Mississippi’s future economy. Secure your spot today and join us to celebrate innovation, collaboration, and groundbreaking achievements!

Learn More and Get Your Tickets Here: https://accelerate.innovate.ms/

Mississippi Business Open House
2024-12-13 14:00 - 16:00 | Governor’s Mansion, 300 East Capitol Street, Jackson, MS, United States
🎄 Celebrate the holidays at the Mississippi Business Open House at the historic Governor’s Mansion. Enjoy festive Christmas decorations, delicious homemade cookies, and exclusive mansion tours, all while supporting local businesses that make Mississippi shine! ✨

🗓️ Date: December 13, 2024
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Location: The Governor’s Mansion, 300 East Capitol Street, Jackson, MS

The Bean Path Tech Talk
2024-12-14 10:00 - 11:00
Join us for an enlightening Tech Talk exploring the intersection of technology and the legal system. Discover how innovative tools and platforms are transforming legal services, making them more accessible, affordable, and empowering for everyday individuals. Whether you’re a startup enthusiast, a tech advocate, or someone interested in simplifying legal processes, this session is for you.
Register here: https://www.beanpath.org/event-details/december-tech-talk-featuring-representative-lawrence-blackmon

Gulf Blue Networking - Building the Blue Economy
2025-01-08 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.
Join us Wednesday, January 8th from 5:00 – 7:00pm as we welcome our January speaker, LaDon Swann, Director
Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium and Sea Grant Aquaculture Liaison. The Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium (MASGC) provides integrated university- and college-based research, education and engagement (communications, extension and legal) programs to coastal communities that lead to the responsible use of ocean and coastal resources in Alabama and Mississippi through informed personal, policy and management decisions.
Snacks, beer & wine will be served with the kind support Chandeleur Island Brewing.
Location: 2605 13th Street, Gulfport, MS 39501
Date and time: Wed, Jan 8, 2024 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Register here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/j474k3u

CyberSecure Mississippi
2025-01-17 07:30 - 15:30 | Sheraton Refuge Conference Center, 2200 Refuge Blvd, Flowood, MS, 39232, United States
Attention Mississippi Business Owners!
Did you know 60% of small businesses close within 6 months of being hacked? Protect your business and join us for CyberSecure Mississippi!
January 17, 2025
7:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Sheraton Refuge Conference Center, Flowood, MS
This FREE event includes a Cybersecurity Binder and LUNCH ! Learn about:
Basic Cybersecurity Awareness
System Security Plans
Cyber Policies
Cyber Resources
Managed Service Providers
Incident Response
This is for business owners, not just the “tech guy”!
Register now: tinyurl.com/CyberSecureMS2025
This event is sponsored by the Small Business Administration and the Mississippi State University Center for Cyber Education. Contact Shelly Hollis at MSU CCE for more details: shelly.hollis@cce.msstate.edu

Big Bad Business: Entrepreneur Hacks for 2025
2025-01-22 18:00 - 20:00 | 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/

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!
