Build Your Network
Signature + Community Events
See below for The DEC Network’s Signature events!
November 12, 2026
4:30 PM – 7:00 PM
The DEC Network at Fort Worth
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. Voting will open soon!
Nominations for Funkytown Founder Awards are Open!
Nominations close 10/08!
AWARD CATEGORIES
Future of Funkytown Award
sponsored by TCU
Honoring a student entrepreneur from any university whose creativity, ambition, and entrepreneurial spirit represent an exciting future for Fort Worth.
Funky Fresh Innovator
Celebrating the founder who, despite being in business for less than two years, brings bold, cutting-edge innovations to the market, keeping things fresh and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Panther City Pioneer
Celebrating a founder who has been in business for 10+ years, laying the foundation for Fort Worth’s next generation of entrepreneurs through their experience, leadership, and innovative contributions.
Cowgirl Founder of the Year
Honoring the fearless female founder who’s made a significant impact with her creativity and boldness in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Cowboy Founder of the Year
Celebrating the daring male founder who’s led his venture with grit, innovation, and a touch of cowboy charm.
Heart of Fort Worth Award
Celebrating a community partner whose passion for their community shines through in their business endeavors and philanthropic efforts.
Boots on the Ground Award
Celebrating an organization whose team doesn’t just talk about supporting entrepreneurship—they actively show up, volunteer, mentor, connect, and invest in Fort Worth founders.
Community Wrangler
Honoring a large corporation that has invested time and financial support into the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Fort Worth.
Lone Star Leader
Honoring a small or medium-sized corporation that has invested time and financial support into the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Fort Worth.
The Your Level Up Pitch Competition is an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase their business and compete for funding, mentorship, and resources to accelerate their businesses. Taking place on November 10th at The DEC Network @ RedBird, 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 Level Up Pitch Competition is the perfect platform for entrepreneurs to elevate their businesses to the next level. Don’t miss this chance to witness the future of innovation!
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 THRIVE Pitch Competition is the perfect platform for entrepreneurs to scale with intention – not just grow faster.
October 20th, 2026
DeSoto Civic Center (Pecan Room)
211 East Pleasant Run Road
DeSoto, TX 75115
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
