Attending the right business conferences & joining the right communities can provide the tools, networks, and insights to fuel your growth.
Entrepreneurship thrives on inspiration, innovation, and, most importantly, connections. Whether you’re a startup founder working on your next big idea, a small business owner scaling up, or a seasoned entrepreneur looking to stay ahead of the curve.
In 2025, U.S.-based entrepreneurs have a wealth of opportunities to meet industry leaders, gain actionable knowledge, and build partnerships. From tech-focused events to small business expos, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re diving into AI, exploring funding opportunities, or looking to sharpen your marketing skills, these events cater to diverse needs.
Here’s your month-by-month breakdown of the top 20 U.S. business events and conferences to add to your calendar in 2025.
January 2025
1. Startup Grind Global Conference (Redwood City, CA)
When: January 15-16, 2025
Why Attend: Kickstart your year at this flagship event designed for early-stage startups. Gain insights on fundraising, scaling, and tech innovation while networking with peers from around the globe.
Who Benefits: Tech entrepreneurs, founders, and early-stage startups.
February 2025
2. Growth Marketing Summit (San Francisco, CA)
When: February 20, 2025
Why Attend: A must-attend for entrepreneurs focused on mastering digital marketing, customer acquisition, and growth strategies through the latest tools and trends.
Who Benefits: E-commerce founders, SaaS startups, and marketers.
3. Small Business Expo (Los Angeles, CA)
When: February 27, 2025
Why Attend: A free expo designed for small business owners to meet service providers, attend workshops, and network.
Who Benefits: Small business owners and freelancers.
March 2025
4. SXSW (Austin, TX)
When: March 7-16, 2025
Why Attend: Known for its creative energy, SXSW offers a mix of tech, culture, and business insights. Perfect for entrepreneurs who want to explore innovation while connecting with cross-industry professionals.
Who Benefits: Creatives, tech founders, and product innovators.
April 2025
5. Rise of the Rest Road Trip (Multiple Cities)
When: April 2025
Why Attend: This event shines a spotlight on startups outside Silicon Valley, offering pitch competitions and community-building activities in underrepresented regions.
Who Benefits: Entrepreneurs from underserved regions looking for visibility and funding.
6. WeWork Creator Awards (New York, NY)
When: April 25, 2025
Why Attend: A celebration of creators, entrepreneurs, and small businesses with opportunities to win funding and mentorship.
Who Benefits: Creative entrepreneurs and startups.
May 2025
7. Angel Capital Association (ACA) Summit (Nashville, TN)
When: May 8-10, 2025
Why Attend: Meet angel investors, pitch your business, and learn how to secure funding while building strong investor relationships.
Who Benefits: Founders seeking early-stage funding or mentorship.
8. The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) Annual Conference (San Jose, CA)
When: May 20-21, 2025
Why Attend: A global event with workshops, networking, and mentorship tailored for entrepreneurs at all stages.
Who Benefits: Founders, investors, and early-stage startups.
June 2025
9. The Future of Work Conference (Boston, MA)
When: June 10-12, 2025
Why Attend: Explore the latest trends in remote work, AI, and workforce management, and how they shape the entrepreneurial landscape.
Who Benefits: Founders scaling teams or transitioning to hybrid/remote models.
10. Creative Startup Bootcamp (Denver, CO)
When: June 25-26, 2025
Why Attend: A practical, hands-on event for early-stage entrepreneurs looking to refine their ideas and business plans.
Who Benefits: First-time founders and creative entrepreneurs.
July 2025
11. VentureBeat Transform (San Francisco, CA)
When: July 15-16, 2025
Why Attend: Dive into AI-driven innovation with leaders across industries. Discover how technology can revolutionize your business strategies.
Who Benefits: Tech entrepreneurs and AI-driven startups.
August 2025
12. National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Leadership Academy (Washington, D.C.)
When: August 19-20, 2025
Why Attend: Empowering women entrepreneurs with leadership skills, funding advice, and networking.
Who Benefits: Women founders and small business owners.
September 2025
13. TechCrunch Disrupt (San Francisco, CA)
When: September 16-18, 2025
Why Attend: Disrupt showcases cutting-edge startups, investor panels, and tech leaders sharing trends shaping the future.
Who Benefits: Founders, tech entrepreneurs, and startups ready to scale.
14. Conscious Capitalism Annual Conference (Dallas, TX)
When: September 22-24, 2025
Why Attend: A unique gathering for purpose-driven entrepreneurs who believe in business as a force for good.
Who Benefits: Social entrepreneurs and mission-driven business leaders.
October 2025
15. The Inc. 5000 Conference (Las Vegas, NV)
When: October 21-23, 2025
Why Attend: Celebrate the success of America’s fastest-growing companies while networking with high-achieving entrepreneurs and CEOs.
Who Benefits: Growth-stage founders and scaling business leaders.
16. Women Founders Network Fast Pitch (Los Angeles, CA)
When: October 28, 2025
Why Attend: A competition-style event showcasing women entrepreneurs pitching to investors.
Who Benefits: Women founders seeking funding and exposure.
November 2025
17. Forbes Small Business Summit (New York, NY)
When: November 12, 2025
Why Attend: Get insights from Forbes' top small business leaders and experts on marketing, operations, and leadership.
Who Benefits: Small business owners and emerging entrepreneurs.
18. Social Impact Startup Summit (Seattle, WA)
When: November 20, 2025
Why Attend: Focused on entrepreneurs building businesses with social and environmental impact.
Who Benefits: Social entrepreneurs and sustainability-focused startups.
December 2025
19. National Small Business Week Virtual Summit (Online)
When: December 2-4, 2025
Why Attend: Hosted by the SBA, this free event provides workshops, resources, and networking tailored to small businesses.
Who Benefits: Entrepreneurs looking for practical advice and free resources.
20. Leadership Mastery for Entrepreneurs (Orlando, FL)
When: December 10-11, 2025
Why Attend: A workshop-intensive conference for entrepreneurs looking to hone their leadership and management skills.
Who Benefits: Founders managing growing teams or facing scaling challenges.
Pro Tips to Maximize Your Experience
Tailor Your Attendance: Focus on events that align with your industry or business stage.
Engage Ahead of Time: Use LinkedIn or event apps to connect with speakers and attendees before the event.
Be Ready to Pitch: Have a 30-second elevator pitch ready—you never know who you’ll meet.
Follow Up: Networking isn’t over when the event ends. Send those follow-ups!
