StartFEST Returns June 23–24, Bringing Utah's Startup Community Together

StartFEST returns June 23–24 at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, bringing founders, investors, and operators together for two days of insights on AI, fundraising, go-to-market strategy, leadership, and growth.

Mark Tullis

Jun 11, 2026 - 2 min read

Sandy, Utah — June 11, 2026

Utah's startup ecosystem will gather again later this month as StartFEST returns June 23–24 for two days of conversations focused on building, funding, and scaling companies in an AI-driven economy.

Hosted by Silicon Slopes and Mountain America Credit Union, StartFEST features six content tracks and 36 sessions covering many of the issues founders, operators, investors, and startup teams are facing right now.

Topics range from navigating the emerging AI correction and building sustainable AI businesses to understanding how capital is moving through Silicon Slopes and closing today's funding gaps. Attendees will also hear practical insights on strengthening advisory boards, modern go-to-market strategies, compensation plans, content creation, operational excellence, and organizational alignment.

The event doesn't shy away from the human side of entrepreneurship either. Sessions will address founder and workforce well-being, balancing stress with success, and creating sustainable growth without burnout.

Day one concludes with a hackathon, while day two opens with the Startup World Cup regional competition. Ten finalists will take the stage for a chance to advance to the global finals in San Francisco and compete for a $1 million investment prize.

Clint Betts, CEO of Silicon Slopes, said the timing couldn't be better for entrepreneurs: "There has never been a better time to start a company. AI gives one person the leverage of a full team. StartFEST is Utah's original startup festival, and this year it's built for that moment. Two days, six tracks, and every ticket funds Start School. If you've been waiting for permission to build something, this is it."

StartFEST has long served as a gathering place for Utah's builders—the founders, operators, and innovators doing the work long before the spotlight arrives. This year's event aims to continue that tradition while helping attendees navigate one of the most significant technological shifts in decades.

StartFEST will be held June 23–24 at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium in Draper.

12033 Lone Peak Pkwy, Draper UT, 84020

Use code TECHBUZZ for 20% off your ticket: https://luma.com/startfest

Ticket proceeds go to Start School, Silicon Slope's free Entrepreneur School.