Build Your Network
Signature + Community Events
See below for The DEC Network’s Signature events!
Considered the “Super Bowl” of Fort Worth entrepreneurship, this high-energy event will bring together the city’s most inspiring innovators, founders, and leaders to celebrate the people, places, and passions powering Fort Worth’s startup ecosystem.
The Funkytown Founder Awards honor the individuals and organizations keeping the entrepreneurial spirit alive in our city. Nominated and voted on by the community, for the community, these awards spotlight those making a real impact. Nominations and voting will open soon!
DFW Startup Week 2026 – Celebrating 11 Years of Innovation!
Fueling Innovation Across North Texas
Get ready for the 11th Annual DFW Startup Week, bigger and better than ever before! Hosted by the SMU Cox Spears Institute at SMU, this year’s event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of entrepreneurship, innovation, and business leadership.
As the second largest Startup Week in the U.S. and the largest in Texas, DFW Startup Week brings together a diverse community of entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders. It’s also one of the most diverse Startup Weeks in the country, offering a platform for voices from all backgrounds to share ideas, collaborate, and grow.
From August 03-06, 2026, join us for expert-led workshops, inspiring keynotes, pitch competitions, and unparalleled networking opportunities. Whether you’re a startup founder, aspiring entrepreneur, or seasoned professional, this event has something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on this year—join us for a week of learning, growth, and connection that will shape the future of North Texas!
Register now to be part of DFW Startup Week!
More info HERE
The Your Start Up Pitch Competition is an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and compete for funding, mentorship, and resources to accelerate their businesses. Taking place on May 6th at The DEC Network @ Frost RedBird Event Center, this high-energy event brings together emerging startups, investors, and business leaders from various industries.
What to Expect:
- Live Pitches: Watch as selected entrepreneurs present their business ideas to a panel of expert judges, with a chance to win valuable prizes that could take their startups to the next level.
- Expert Judges: Gain insights from a distinguished panel of investors, industry leaders, and successful entrepreneurs who will evaluate pitches and provide actionable feedback.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other entrepreneurs, investors, and potential business partners in a dynamic, supportive environment.
- Prize Packages: Winners will receive a combination of funding, mentorship, and resources tailored to help them scale their business and grow.
Whether you’re pitching, supporting a competitor, or simply interested in the latest innovations, the Your Start Up Pitch Competition is the perfect platform for entrepreneurs to elevate their ideas and take their ventures to the next level. Don’t miss this chance to witness the future of innovation!
