Get Ready for the First-Ever Innovate SOMO Week!
A New Annual Celebration of Innovation & Entrepreneurship | April 21-25
March 21, 2025
Something big is happening in southern Missouri—and you’re invited to be part of it!
Innovate SOMO Week1 is launching this April, kicking off what will become an annual tradition of celebrating entrepreneurship, innovation, and collaboration across our region.
For five action-packed days, we’re bringing together entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, and community builders to showcase the incredible work happening across 47 counties and highlight the resources, funding, and connections that fuel success.
And this is just the beginning. Each year, Innovate SOMO Week will grow bigger and better—expanding opportunities, fostering new partnerships, and strengthening the innovation ecosystem in southern Missouri.
What is Innovate SOMO?
In partnership with efactory2 and with support from dozens of ecosystem and training partners,3 we launched Innovate SOMO,4 a collaborative network of businesses and non-profit organizations who work together for greater impact. We connect workers to training, entrepreneurs to resources, and employers to talent—all to drive regional growth and prosperity. With 35 Community Connectors, Regional Connectors, and Training partners across 47 counties, we are building a stronger, more innovative economy in southern Missouri.
Whether you’re looking for capital, workspace, mentorship, or new business opportunities, Innovate SOMO is here to help you make it happen.
What to Expect During Innovate SOMO Week
Webinars and Livestreamed Fireside Chats
Hear directly from the entrepreneurs building the next generation of job-creating companies to help our region grow and thrive. Great sharing of learned lessons, challenges overcome, and inspiration.
Skill-Building Workshops
From AI Simplified to Introduction to Grant Writing, discover in-person and virtual training to help entrepreneurs and small business owners gain new skills and stay ahead of the game.
Local Events, Celebrations, and BIG Announcements
Across southern Missouri, communities are hosting networking meetups, pitch competitions, and entrepreneur showcases to celebrate progress, share knowledge, and inspire future innovation.
Get Social with #InnovateSOMOWeek
Be part of the movement! Share your success stories, big ideas, and event experiences on social media using #InnovateSOMOWeek to help showcase the momentum in our region.
Be Part of the First-Ever Innovate SOMO Week
We’re setting the stage for something huge—a long-term movement to fuel entrepreneurship, drive economic growth, and make southern Missouri a thriving hub of innovation. Whether you're an aspiring founder, a seasoned business leader, or just passionate about the future of our region, this is your chance to be part of history.
Mark your calendars. Spread the word. And get ready to make an impact!
Check Out the Full ScheduleThis is only the beginning—see you at the first-ever Innovate SOMO Week!
Get Involved with Innovate SOMO Beyond the Week
Innovate SOMO Week is just the beginning. If you’re passionate about growing your business, supporting entrepreneurs, or driving innovation in Missouri, there’s a place for you in Innovate SOMO!
- Join a local or regional event
- Become a Community Connector
- Tap into business resources and funding opportunities
- Collaborate with like-minded entrepreneurs
Special Thanks to Missouri Technology Corporation!
Innovate SOMO Week is supported by Regional Node grants from the MTC.5