The St. Louis agri-food sector is a global powerhouse—a dynamic ecosystem that is creating innovation that impacts food, fuel, and materials around the world. At 39 North, our mission is to amplify this excellence, spark meaningful collaborations, and create a thriving community for innovators throughout the region. We hit the ground running in 2024 with events, convenings, and opportunities to connect, and in 2025 we’ll be building on that momentum by enhancing our event offerings and introducing new opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. Here’s a little taste of what 39 North is planning for this year, and we’ll keep you posted on new additions as they get added (and, as always, reach out if you have a great idea that you think we should add to our docket!).
Continuing What Works: Coffee & Happy Hour Events
Consistency matters, and as they say “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Our Morning Coffee and Happy Hour events have become go-to spaces for authentic conversations and casual networking. You come to hang out with coworkers, meet with friends from across the district, and/or to find your next collaborator. These gatherings are perfect for introducing new team members to the agtech community in St. Louis. In 2025, expect the same great energy, the same opportunities to connect, and the same welcoming atmosphere that made them a mainstay of our programming!
Elevating Collaboration: Partnerships That Matter
39 North thrives on collaboration – sometimes we lead, and sometimes we support and amplify the great work that partners are rolling out. In 2024 our partnership events with BioSTL, XPRIZE, The Association for Corporate Growth, and others were some of our most valuable offerings. In 2025, our team will continue to use The Hub and the myriad assets that 39 North brings to bear to feature diverse perspectives and provide a platform for partners to showcase their work and engage with the community. These events not only provide value for scientists and innovators throughout the region, but also showcase St. Louis’ strength as a global hub for agri-food tech innovation.
In February, we’re partnering with BioSTL on the ReACH Summit to connect agtech innovators with the St. Louis ecosystem. If you’d like to register to attend, learn more and sign up here. Later in the year, we’ll again team up with Association for Corporate Growth for the Agtech Investor Conference on October 6th (and we’ll likely be offering some additional content for early-stage companies in conjunction with that event. We’re finalizing dates for several other partnership events, and you can keep up-to-date on announcements on our website here.
One of our most impactful platform events from 2024 was the XPRIZE Moonshot Workshop, held in partnership with the XPRIZE Foundation and the Lindbergh Foundation. This interactive, day-long workshop convened thought leaders from agriculture, agtech, and sustainability sectors in St. Louis and from abroad. This event gave many in the district the opportunity to have a structured approach to thinking, collaborating, and strategizing on big topics like food security and climate change. You can read more about the specifics of this event here.
If you’re interested in hosting an event with us, reach out to Rishi Masalia (rishi@39northstl.org). We’re always open to bold ideas that align with our mission.
Professional Development: Upskilling the Community
Innovation doesn’t just require great ideas—it also requires skills to bring those ideas to life. That’s why we’re rolling out a brand-new professional development series in 2025. Here, folks can learn practical, in-demand skills and develop cross-disciplinary competencies tailored to the agtech community and sector.
Our “Find Your Way” one-hour workshops will cover topics like science communication, the relevance of science policy, farmer perspectives, and understanding IP and patents. For deeper learning, our multi-week “Get Your Degree” courses will offer an in-depth dive into critical skills such as how to use AWS or core management and leadership fundamentals. These in-person sessions will have limited seating, so keep an eye on our website and LinkedIn for announcements.
We’re also open to your input. If there’s a topic you’d like us to cover or if you’re interested in leading a session, email Rishi Masalia (rishi@39northstl.org).
Introducing: Informal Community Building:
Innovation thrives when we’re able to “live, work, play”, but in 2024 we felt we may have been a little light on the “play” element. We’re hoping to change that in 2025, and will be trying out some new ideas including new trivia and board game nights at The Hub. These events are all about having fun, building relationships, and strengthening our sense of community.
Details will be announced soon, so stay tuned to our website and Instagram for updates. Have a great idea for a “play” event? Email Sarah LaPlante (sarah@39northstl.org).
Meetups: Building Community Beyond Work
Building on the “play” element, 39 North wants to take community building outside the district with our new Meet Up series. Come explore all that St. Louis has to offer and see how we as a community of scientists and innovators fit into the larger regional landscape. Throughout the year, we’ll organize meetups at local parks, the botanical garden, sporting events, and art galleries. Join 39 North at the Festival of Nations or at the Fabulous Fox Theater. Take a break from your professional responsibilities to relax, recharge, and have fun.
Do you have suggestions for future Meet Up locations or activities? Email Sarah LaPlante (sarah@39northstl.org).
Shaping the Future Together
At 39 North, we’re committed to creating spaces where the regional agri-food tech community can thrive. Our 2025 programming reflects this commitment, blending the best of our traditions with bold new initiatives. From professional development to informal community events, every program is designed to spark collaboration, foster innovation, and strengthen the St. Louis agri-food tech ecosystem.
The full calendar is coming soon, with some added surprises, but you can start shaping it now. Join our quarterly newsletter, take our surveys, share your ideas, and most importantly join us at an event or five. Together, let’s make 2025 a year of connection, growth, and impact.