Innovate Mississippi

Mississippi Entrepreneurship Forum
2024-04-03 16:00 - 2024-04-04 14:30 (America/Chicago) | Tougaloo College, Bennie G. Thompson Academic Center, 500 West County Line Road, Tougaloo, MS, 39174, United States
“The Mississippi Entrepreneurship Forum provides a vital venue for entrepreneurs, economic developers, innovators and future business owners,” UM Chancellor Glenn Boyce said. “It is especially impressive how this event brings together colleges and universities to promote entrepreneurship, inform best practices and discuss community and economic development in Mississippi. This collaborative approach is essential to priming the conditions and fostering the talent for the emergence of breakthrough ideas that will lead Mississippi forward.”
Register Here

For more information, contact Dr. JR Love at jrlove@olemiss.edu

Women in Economic and Community Development: Spring Seminar 2024
2024-04-11 10:30 - 13:30 | Rickhouse by The Manship, 717 Poplar Blvd, Jackson, 39202, United States
Enhancing women in economic development’s resources and peer network through professional development, while raising awareness of the profession to emerging females in the workforce. With this group, we strive to provide the means to give women a place to grow and give support to others; to make a positive impact not just in their professional lives but within their personal life as well.
Register here

Black Business Funding Convening
2024-04-17 12:00 - 17:00 | MS
This event will be dedicated to supporting Black business owners in the most beneficial ways.
Register Here and fill out the form to make sure that we can adequately support you.
For additional information, please contact Oni Omoregie at (oni@higherpurposeco.org).

Mississippi Aerospace & Defense Symposium
2024-04-30 08:00 - 2024-05-02 13:00 | The University of Mississippi, Oxford
Join aerospace and defense industry leaders and experts for the Second Annual Mississippi Aerospace and Defense Symposium as we explore opportunities and challenges facing the sector in Mississippi during a productive two days of discussions and networking.
Register here

Southern Spark: Mississippi's AI Conference
2024-07-12 - 2024-07-13 | Mississippi Museum of Art, 380 S Lamar St, Jackson, MS, 39201, United States
Join us at the Mississippi Museum of Art on July12-13, 2024
380 S Lamar St, Jackson, MS 39201

Early Bird Registration Available until May 15, 2024
Call for Proposals | Sponsorship Packages

The Mississippi AI Collaborative is revving up for Southern Spark, the must-attend conference for anyone passionate about artificial intelligence! Buckle up and prepare for an electrifying experience to spark innovation and collaboration across Mississippi and the Southern US.

Southern Spark is your chance to connect with a vibrant community of industry leaders, educators, researchers,and community innovators who are all eager to push the boundaries of what’s possible with AI. Register for our business, education, or community track for a customized experience. Prizes for the Mississippi AI-thon will be announced at the conference.

Sharpen your skills: Learn from the best and refine your AI expertise in our “Cafe Co-Pilot” sponsored by Microsoft.
Fuel your passion: Discover new ways to leverage AI in your business or learning environment.
Collaborate: Network with a vibrant community driving the future of AI.
Spark a revolution: Be part of the movement shaping the South’s AI landscape.

Keynote Speakers:
Kristina Ishmael, Strategic Advisor, Ishmael Consulting and Former Deputy Director Office of Educational Technology, U.S. Department of Education.

Dr. Nashlie Sephus, Principal AI/ML Evangelist for Amazon; Founder and CEO of The Bean Path

Krystal Chatman, Co-founder of the Mississippi AI Collaborative and Computer Science Teachers Association Mississippi President

MEDC EXCHANGE 2024 Annual Conference
2024-07-17 - 2024-07-19 | Beau Rivage Hotel and Casino, 875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS, 39530, United States
We look forward to seeing you at MEDC’s Annual Conference, EXCHANGE 2024, that will be held at the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, MS, this summer!
Check the website for the agenda and registration link coming soon.

Mississippi Science Fest Tech Summit
2024-09-18 08:00 - 14:00 | 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

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/

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/

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/

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/

Oceans in Action 2025 Workshop
2025-08-26 - 2025-08-28 | Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center, 2350 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS, 39531, United States
Join the Marine Technology Society for Oceans In Action 2025 Workshop, an in-person event featuring the marine science and technology research efforts along the Gulf Coast that transform into operational missions worldwide.
Following the success of the larger OCEANS 2023 Conference, the workshop will host presentations from locally based federal agencies, state-led initiatives, and high-tech companies. This year’s event will once again highlight the results of the Advanced Naval Technology Exercise (ANTX) vignettes that occurred in the Gulf of Mexico in 2024. In addition to the Department of the Navy, these vignettes are supported by NOAA, USM, and LSU and are the results of testing new technologies in an operational scenario.
Hosted by the Marine Technology Society’s Gulf Coast Section and the Mississippi Enterprise for Technology, the workshop takes place along the thriving Mississippi Gulf Coast and offers a number of networking opportunities for marine science and technology companies.
When: August 26-28, 2025
Where: Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center, Biloxi MS. Ballroom A
Register Here: https://mtsociety.memberclicks.net/index.php?option=com_mcform&view=ngforms&id=2217165#!/

DelTech 2025
2025-10-08 - 2025-10-10 | MS
DelTech is a premier regional conference dedicated to advancing technology and innovation across the Delta region. By bringing together entrepreneurs, industry leaders, investors, and policymakers, DelTech fosters collaboration and accelerates solutions to some of the region’s most pressing challenges. With inspiring keynotes, dynamic panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and startup showcases, DelTech is the hub for those passionate about driving a culture of innovation.
Epicenter Memphis
Oct 8 – 10, 2025
Learn more: https://whova.com/web/63P5WAhbUiPmJjutmc7Ij6dTh3I2ccbU2OaE1-giDfw%3D/
Register: https://whova.com/portal/registration/9Nh1lB6WCiO79WBm0czC/

Mississippi Aerospace and Defense Symposium 2025
2025-10-22 - 2025-10-24 | Golden Nugget Biloxi Hotel & Casino, 151 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS, 39530, United States
SAVE THE DATE OCTOBER 22-24, 2025

REGISTRATION OPENS JUNE 13
The Mississippi Aerospace and Defense Symposium (MADS) is an annual event, co-hosted by Mississippi Enterprise for Technology and the Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi. MADS rotates between the state’s different research institutions to highlight business opportunities across the industry and bring together industry executives, academic institutions, government officials and economic developers. MADS features networking opportunities, presentations on industry forecasts and highlights Mississippi’s assets including research centers, workforce training programs, and contracting opportunities.
Learn more here: https://mset.org/mississippi-aerospace-and-defense-symposium-2025/

TEDx Southern Miss
2025-10-30 13:00 - 17:00 | The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Park Campus Fleming Education Center, 730 E Beach Blvd, Long Beach, MS, 39560, United States
TEDx Southern Miss is coming to the University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Park campus in Long Beach on October 30.
This milestone marks the first-ever TEDx event hosted along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and at USM, creating an inspiring stage for innovation, leadership, and regional progress.
This year’s program will shine a global spotlight on the groundbreaking work, opportunities, and ideas emerging from our coastal region. You can get involved by attending in person, hosting a livestream viewing party, or supporting the movement as an event sponsor.
Learn more, view the flyer, and get involved: usm.edu/tedx

Ignite 2026 Leadership Conference
2026-01-29 | MS
Ignite is a half-day leadership experience designed to ignite your potential and elevate your impact, whether you’re a seasoned leader, an emerging talent, or part of a team that wants to grow together. Hosted by the Community Development Foundation, this conference brings world-class speakers, energizing peer-to-peer interaction, and practical takeaways all under one roof right here in Northeast Mississippi.
Expect a high-energy morning filled with powerful insights from dynamic keynote speakers, real-world leadership strategies you can implement immediately, and meaningful connections with other professionals who are passionate about growth, community, and influence. Ignite is more than just talks — it’s an opportunity to expand your network, sharpen your leadership skills, and come away inspired to lead with confidence.
What’s included:
✨ Insightful presentations from top leadership voices
✨ Networking with local and regional leaders
✨ Free coffee, soft drinks & snacks
✨ Practical tools and action steps for your leadership journey
✨ Optional continuing education credit information available onsite
Whether you’re building influence in your organization, developing your team’s leadership capacity, or simply ready for a spark that pushes you forward, Ignite 2026 delivers inspiration and practical value in a collaborative, upbeat environment.
Register here: https://www.igniteleadership.com/

Mississippi Health Innovation Conference 2026
2026-02-02 08:00 - 17:00 | MS
The Mississippi Health Innovation Conference is a collaboration between the School of Business Administration at the 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.
Register here: www.mshic.org
