The first-ever Innovate SOMO Week, a celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation across Southern Missouri, will take place April 21-25. The week will highlight the impact of the Southern Missouri Innovation Network (Innovate SOMO), a collaborative effort connecting entrepreneurs with resources, fostering innovation and empowering individuals through tech education, business support and talent development across 47 counties in Southern Missouri.
The week will feature a variety of events and activities, including a kickoff event in Springfield on April 21, investor education events hosted in Cape Girardeau and Springfield, an innovation event in West Plains, live and virtual training opportunities, local celebrations hosted by community partners and a social media campaign showcasing success stories.
“Innovate SOMO Week is a chance to recognize the incredible work being done across Southern Missouri to foster innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Rachel Munday, Executive Director of efactory at Missouri State University. “We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the successes of our entrepreneurs and the positive impact we’re having on our communities.”
“It’s important to shine the spotlight on the job-creating startups and small businesses that drive our regional economy and celebrate the many organizations in the Southern Missouri Innovation Network that work hard to support them,” said Dr. James Stapleton, President and CEO of codefi.
Innovate SOMO Week is part of the Southern Missouri Innovation Network (Innovate SOMO) and is funded by the Missouri Technology Corporation Regional Node Grant Program.
“MTC’s Regional Node Grant Program provides funding for regions to coalesce assets and foster coordinated partnerships between entrepreneurial organizations, ensuring that resources are accessible to all entrepreneurs in the region,” said Jack Scatizzi, MTC Executive Director and CEO.
“The Innovate SOMO Week being organized by Codefi and efactory is an excellent example of how funding awarded through the grant program can serve as the ‘front door’ for the entrepreneurial community, giving entrepreneurs direct access to the resources and support they need to thrive and scale their businesses.”
