TENWEST returns to Downtown Tucson March 25-30

TUCSON, AZ (March 11, 2025) — TENWEST, by Startup Tucson, is back! This six-day festival and three-day conference is once again set to transform Downtown Tucson into a hub of innovation, entrepreneurship and creativity March 25-30. 
As always, TENWEST offers an exciting lineup of speakers, workshops, networking events, and interactive experiences designed to inspire and empower attendees. This year’s themes are Trends, Entrepreneurship, Creativity and Wellness. 

“TENWEST is back to celebrate our 10th year in Tucson,” said Liz Pocock, CEO at Startup Tucson. “This year attendees can expect a robust conference line-up, unique experiences and to make lasting connections.”

This year’s lineup is packed with inspiring speakers, live performances and community events:

  • Guy Raz (host of the “How I Built This” podcast) – Keynote: “7 Lessons I’ve Learned From the World’s Greatest Entrepreneurs”
    March 26 | Centennial Hall
  • Reggie Watts – Live music and comedy performance
    March 28 | 191 Toole
  • Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. – Free lecture experience
    March 28 | Centennial Hall
  • IdeaFunding Pitch Competition – 20+ startups compete for $50K+ in total prizes
    March 27 | Rialto Theatre
  • Made in Tucson Market + TENWEST Corbett’s Takeover – 200+ local vendors, interactive art, live music, and networking
    March 30 | 7th St + Corbett’s

Beyond the keynotes and “X” events, TENWEST offers 15-20 breakout sessions daily March 26-28, covering topics such as:

  • “Trash to Treasure” – Innovations Advancing the Circular Economy
  • “Innovate with AI” – Redefining Roles & Boosting Productivity
  • “Endless Lead Generation” – Podcasting & YouTube for Entrepreneurs
  • “Indigenous Innovation” – Culture, Creativity & Technology in Business

New this year is a Saturday Wellness Summit. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to advance their careers through:

  • Three days of Breakout Sessions covering industry trends, entrepreneurship, and creativity
  • Mentor Zones offering personalized guidance
  • Wellness Summit to recharge and refocus at the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine

TENWEST offers multiple ways to connect with entrepreneurs, leaders, professionals, and creatives, including:

  • Mega Mixer Kickoff Event (March 25)
  • Daily LunchLinks via Rio Nuevo
  • Daily Happy Hours at popular downtown venues

The TENWEST Conference takes place across various Downtown Tucson locations, including:

  • The Grand (TENWEST HQ)
  • HighWire
  • BrickBox Brewery
  • Playground
  • AC Hotel
  • Tucson Metro Chamber
  • Rialto

Don’t miss out on Arizona’s premier innovation festival. Secure your spot before ticket prices increase on Monday, March 10. Discover the full schedule and purchase tickets at tenwest.com.

TENWEST is produced by Startup Tucson and Ranch House Media and sponsored by the Arizona Commerce Authority, Pima Community College, Arizona Arts Live, Vantage West Credit Union, HUSTL, Rio Nuevo District, UA Center for Innovation, Visit Tucson, and many others.