North Texas is a big place, with plenty to do, see, hear, and watch. We scour the internet every week to find events and activities for you. As always, things may change at any time, so be sure to check the official website or registration page for the latest details. For ongoing events, click here.
Don’t miss anything: Get Dallas Innovates Every Day. And, if you know of a great event, tell us about it. Event details courtesy of organizers.
Wednesday, May 14
Innovation Luncheon: Changing Childhood Poverty Outcomes for Dallas
Hosted by SVP Dallas
Cooper Hotel & Conference Center, 12230 Preston Rd., Dallas
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Learn how Friends of Children positions full-time, salaried, professional mentors to help children with long-term mentorship to graduation. Friends of the Children is a thirty-year-old national organization committed to breaking the cycle of generational poverty by identifying kindergarten-aged children facing the greatest obstacles and providing them with a full-time, salaried, professional mentor called a “Friend” for the next 12.5 years.
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MassChallenge Healthcare Startup Showcase
Hosted by MassChallenge
3000 Pegasus Park Dr., Dallas
4:30 to 7 p.m.
Join MassChallenge for their Healthcare Startup Showcase, which will feature the 2025 cohort of their Early-Stage Healthcare Accelerator. This high-energy evening will spotlight the innovative startups currently in its program, each one tackling real challenges across the healthcare ecosystem.
Entrepreneurs in digital health, precision medicine, and medical technologies are driving breakthroughs that improve outcomes, expand access, and redefine care delivery worldwide. In the United States—the largest and most complex healthcare market—the potential to scale transformative solutions is unmatched. With its diverse ecosystem of patients, providers, and payers, the U.S. serves as a launchpad for innovations that enhance affordability, address systemic inequities, and deliver better care. MassChallenge empowers these innovators to succeed, fostering a future where healthcare is accessible, equitable, and impactful for all.
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1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Thursday, May 15
Southwest Venture Forum: Growing Life Science Innovation & Investment in North Texas
Hosted by SMU Cox Caruth Institute for Entrepreneurship
SMU Cox Business School, EY Gallery (ECOX1248), Bishop Boulevard, Dallas, TX
7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
The Southwest Venture Forum is a public bi-monthly breakfast event where the Dallas venture community gathers to network and explore timely topics in venture financing. Founded in 1984 and operated by SMU’s Caruth Institute for Entrepreneurship since 1990, the forum features entrepreneur business plan presentations and discussions led by investors and experts.
The May 2025 edition focuses on “Growing Life Science Innovation & Investment in North Texas.” Attendees will hear from prominent speakers and panelists shaping the region’s life sciences landscape. Registration closes on Thursday, May 8.
Speakers include:
- Dr. Craig Rosenfeld, CEO, Third Coast Healthcare Ventures, LLC
- Michael Walsh, CEO & Co-Founder, Cariloop & Board Chair
- Nicole Small, CEO/President, LH Capital/Lyda Hill Philanthropies
Moderator:
- Hubert Zajicek, MD, CEO, Co-founder & Partner, Health Wildcatters
Check-in, networking, and a breakfast buffet begin at 7:00 a.m., followed by the program and keynote from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.
Saturday, May 17
DFW CPG Brand Showcase
Hosted by DFW CPG
Smurfit Westrock, 125 E. John Carpenter Fwy., Suite 1500, Irving
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
DFW CPG is bringing back the Brand Showcase this May! This event is designed to spotlight early and mid-stage CPG brands in North Texas, connecting them with retailers, industry partners, and the local CPG community.
Participating brands will have the opportunity to display and sample their products, making this a must-attend event for those looking to discover what’s new and next in DFW CPG. Space for exhibitors is limited, so brands must apply to be considered.
Wednesday, May 21
1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Thursday, May 22
USICOC Tech Conference
Hosted by the U.S.-India Chamber of Commerce DFW
Hilton Granite Park, Plano
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The DFW metro area has been consistently ranked as one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the US, and home to an ever-increasing number of tech companies: from the original Texas Instruments to startups like Alkami Technology. And it is also home to the USICOC’s extremely popular and often sold-out Annual Tech Conference, rebranded for 2025 as “TechConnex.” Featured speakers include two founders of Dallas unicorns.
One of the keynote speakers is Matt Creason, a Dallas based entrepreneur and healthcare innovator, best known for co-founding Shiftkey, a revolutionary healthcare tech platform valued at over $2 billion, that transformed workforce dynamics and flexibility in the healthcare sector.
The day’s second keynote speaker, Raj Koneru, brings his experience as founder and CEO of Kore.ai, which achieved unicorn status in its most recent funding round. Kore.ai focuses on “conversational and generative artificial intelligence that serves over 500 partners and 400 Fortune 2000 companies worldwide.”
Investor and CIO panels include leaders from the Mark Cuban Companies, AT&T Ventures, Amazon Business, and Fortune 10 Cencora.
Wednesday, May 28
1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Wednesday, June 4
Scientific Research Innovation Showcase and Supplier Expo
Hosted by BioNTX and Avantor
3000 Pegasus Park Dr., Dallas
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Join BioNTX and Avantor to explore the latest research lab solutions that support your organization’s needs. The event will feature a variety of vendors showcasing innovative tools and technologies across every stage of research, development, and production. These solutions span multiple industries, from biotech to pharmaceuticals, designed to enhance efficiency and precision. Don’t miss the chance to connect with industry leaders and discover the next wave of advancements in research.
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1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Thursday, June 5
Made in North Texas Conference
Hosted by the Dallas Business Journal
E-Sports Stadium Arlington, 1200 Ballpark Way, Arlington
8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
North Texas is in the midst of a manufacturing transformation—one that’s reshaping local economies, driving innovation, and creating jobs in DFW. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of both the public and private sectors, the region has emerged as a powerhouse in manufacturing, spanning semiconductors and electronics, automotive, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and more.
Join the Dallas Business Journal for this exclusive breakfast event to explore how North Texas is capitalizing on this momentum, fostering economic growth, and redefining the future of manufacturing. Learn more about navigating tariffs and the current state of manufacturing.
Learn more and get tickets here.
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IoT Texas Happy Hour: Agentic AI and the New Division of Labor
Hosted by IoT Texas
Hybrid event; online and in-person at SpringHill Suites Dallas/Richardson/Plano, 3251 E. President George Bush Hwy., Richardson
6 to 7:30 p.m.
Featured speaker Ron Giblin, Principal Virtual CTO / AI Consultant and Solution Architect at Pliris Technology Consulting, is a leading voice in helping organizations navigate the emerging landscape of agentic AI and the evolving division of labor between humans and intelligent systems.
His thought leadership equips enterprises to find their “bedrock” — the unshakable foundations of purpose and value — while anchoring innovation and charting a true north for sustainable growth.
Wednesday, June 11
DRC Opportunity Summit
Hosted by the Dallas Regional Chamber
The Shops at RedBird, 3662 W. Camp Wisdom Rd., Dallas
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Join the Dallas Regional Chamber for the 2025 Opportunity Summit—an in-person event focused on building stronger communities in Southern Dallas County. Connect with business leaders, local officials, and changemakers to explore bold partnerships that drive economic growth and equity.
Hear from bestselling author and Operation HOPE CEO John Hope Bryant in a fireside chat with Kelley Cornish of the TD Jakes Foundation. Explore development initiatives and meet emerging entrepreneurs during the Development Expo. The Changemakers Panel, featuring leaders like Peter Brodsky and April Allen, will share fresh strategies for expanding access and opportunity across the Dallas Region.
Presented by Ernst & Young LLP and Regions Bank. Attendees will receive a free copy of Bryant’s new book, Financial Literacy for All.
Register by June 6, 2025.
Thursday, June 12 through Saturday, June 14
Good Soil Forum 2025
Hosted by the T.D, Jakes Foundation and presented by Wells Fargo
AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas
Thursday 8:30 a.m. to Saturday 1 p.m.
The world is shifting and the economy is evolving. In an era of change, uncertainty, and rapid digital transformation, entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders are uniting to provide strategies for business growth and ownership. Good Soil Forum 2025 is more than a conference—it’s an ecosystem where innovators, momentum builders, and wealth creators come together to fund, mentor, and elevate the next generation of entrepreneurs.
The agenda includes breakout sessions on topics ranging from future-proofing your business to leveraging AI. On June 14, the forum will feature the Seed Capital Pitch Competition which provides entrepreneurs the opportunity to win a share of $500,000 in non-dilutive funding—along with expert mentorship, increased visibility, and access to a powerful network of industry leaders and peers.
Guest speakers at the forum include Businessman T.D Jakes; Oprah Winfrey; founder, chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE John Hope Bryant; fashion designer and founder of Fear of God Jerry Lorenzo; financial educator Wallstreet Trapper; CEO and founder of Camille Rose Janell Stephens; entrepreneur and TV host Mahisha Dellinger, and more.
Tuesday, June 17
Made in North Texas Conference
Hosted by D CEO
Renaissance Dallas Hotel, 2222 N. Stemmons Fwy., Dallas
7:30 a.m. to noon
D CEO is proud to host its 10th annual Women’s Leadership Symposium on Tuesday, June 17, at the Renaissance Dallas Hotel.
This year’s theme—“Next Begins Now”—is a bold invitation to embrace what’s ahead with innovation, resilience, and intention. In a rapidly evolving world, the symposium will explore what’s next for women in leadership—from leveraging AI and other emerging technologies to building future-ready networks and skill sets.
Featured keynote speaker is Dr. Judith Joseph—board-certified psychiatrist, researcher, professor at NYU, award-winning content creator, and national bestselling author of High Functioning. She will bring her compelling insights on mental health, ambition, and high-performance leadership to the stage.
Thursday, June 19
Disrupt Dallas Summit Preview
Hosted by The DEC Network
The DEC Network @ Redbird, 3556 W. Camp Wisdom Rd., Dallas
11:30 a.m.
This exclusive preview event offers a first look at the Disrupt Dallas Summit—set for July 10 during DFW Startup Week 2025—brought to you in collaboration with the Dallas Collaborative for Capital Access (DCCA).
Join The DEC Network for an afternoon of insight, connection, and innovation as they set the stage for what’s to come during DFW’s biggest week in entrepreneurship.
What to Expect:
- Sneak Peek Programming: Get insider insight into the themes, topics, and leaders that will define the 2025 Disrupt Dallas Summit
- Keynote Session: Hear from a dynamic speaker who’s shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Dallas-Fort Worth
- Networking That Matters: Meet founders, funders, and ecosystem builders
- Interactive Experiences: Engage in curated conversations and community connections that matter
Monday, June 23
89th Texas Legislative Session Wrap-Up & Power Hour
Hosted by Dallas Regional Chamber
Dallas Regional Chamber, Dallas, TX
2:30 – 5:00 p.m.
The DRC’s Legislative Wrap-Up & Power Hour will highlight key takeaways from the 89th Texas Legislative Session and their impact on the Dallas Region. Experts will provide insight into critical legislation covering areas such as water, economic development, education and workforce, tech policy, public safety, and health care.
Join to hear analysis from leaders across sectors and understand how new laws may shape the region’s future.
Registration closes on June 18 at 3:00 p.m.
Learn more here.
Through Sunday, May 11
Titanic: The Exhibition
Hosted by Imagine and Fever
Pepper Square, 14902 Preston Road
Tickets are timed entry.
The story of one of the most important nautical disasters in history is coming to North Texas with the immersive Titanic: The Exhibition, produced by Imagine and Fever, which will open for a limited engagement in Dallas following a “highly successful” run in Chicago.
The exhibit harkens back to the morning of April 15, 1912, when the Titanic sank in the icy waters of the North Atlantic. It’s a story that still captivates and intrigues people to this day.
The largest and most immersive touring Titanic experience, Titanic: The Exhibition is a narrative journey that focuses on the fates of the passengers and crew aboard the sinking ship with stories, artifacts, and ship re-creations.
Monday, August 3 through Friday, August 7
DFW Startup Week
Hosted by DSW and sponsored by Capital One
SMU Cox School of Business, Dallas
Save the date
Every year DFW Startup Week—formerly known as Dallas Startup Week—brings together entrepreneurs and changemakers to exchange ideas, collaborate, and grow. Founders are changing the Dallas ecosystem every day and this free annual event, billed as the largest entrepreneurial gathering in North Texas, highlights what’s new and next in the region.
Keep checking back for updates on the agenda and speakers. Learn more here.
Friday, September 12
25th Annual Tech Titans Awards
Presented by The University of Texas at Dallas
Hyatt Regency at Stonebriar Mall, 2615 Preston Road, Frisco, TX 75034
5:00 – 10:00 p.m.
The Tech Titans Awards celebrate the innovators, executives, educators, and companies who are shaping the future of technology in North Texas. Now in its 25th year, this prestigious event recognizes outstanding achievements in technology leadership, growth, and innovation across a variety of sectors. Nominations are open through June 16.
Award Categories include:
- Community Hero
- Corporate CEO
- Corporate CIO/CTO
- Corporate Innovation
- Emerging Company CEO
- Emerging Company CIO/CTO
- Emerging Company Innovation
- Fast Tech
- Hall of Fame
- Startup Company CEO
- Technology Advocate
- Technology Inventors
- Tech Titans of the Future (Community College/University Level + High School Level)
Learn more here.
Thursday, October 30
Venture Dallas 2025
Hosted by Venture Dallas
George W. Bush Presidential Center, Dallas
Save the date
Venture Dallas is excited to announce that Venture Dallas 2025 is set for October 30, 2025, and will be back at the George W. Bush Presidential Center on the SMU campus.
As the premier gathering of innovators, investors, and industry leaders in North Texas, Venture Dallas continues to drive connections and conversations that shape the future of venture and entrepreneurship.
Mark your calendars and stay tuned here for more details.
Get on the list.
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R E A D N E X T
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The hybrid event in August will take place in person at SMU and virtually. The seventh annual Dallas Startup Week powered by Capital One is Dallas-Fort Worth's largest event focused on driving entrepreneurial success, economic impact, and innovation in the region.
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You'll find deadlines coming up for a new accelerator program; and many more opportunities.
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You’ve found Dallas Innovates’ archive of news briefs from July to September 2021.
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Nonprofit BUiLT is hosting the event to highlight the success and possibilities of Black tech talent in the region. “There is no talent pipeline problem,” says Peter Beasley, co-founder of the Blacks United in Leading Technology International. “Black tech talent is widely available, especially in North Texas.”
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With Dallas ranked as one of the top cities in America for tech pros, UT Dallas and Fullstack have launched four skills training bootcamps focused on coding, cybersecurity, data analytics, and DevOps. The online bootcamps begin in November with tuition at $11,995 each.
