FEST FAQs

TENWEST is the largest entrepreneurship and creativity festival in the Southwest. Fueled by HUSTL and hosted by Startup Tucson, TENWEST helps attendees call forth the entrepreneur, creator and innovator within them so they can navigate our changing world. In the 10+ years of TENWEST, tens of thousands of attendees have launched and grown their startup or micro-business, thrived as a creative, and cultivated their culinary footprint.

Startup Tucson is a nonprofit working to transform the Southern Arizona economy through entrepreneurship and innovation. As the region’s one-stop hub for entrepreneurship, we help increase the quantity, quality, and diversity of local businesses—while building a more connected innovation ecosystem. Through high-quality, low-cost technical assistance, mentoring, and community programs, we reduce barriers to success for founders of all backgrounds. We believe entrepreneurship empowers individuals and communities to reach their full potential when opportunities are accessible and equitable. Founded in 2012, Startup Tucson sits at the frontier of grassroots economic development and has been vital to the rapid growth of our region’s creative and entrepreneurial community. In 2024–2025, we directly engaged more than 2,000 entrepreneurs and ecosystem supporters through our programs and events.

TENWEST takes place in Downtown Tucson across multiple venues, creating a walkable and immersive experience. The dates for this year’s festival can be found on our official website. To view all the venues, visit our Festival Map page.

While many sessions and networking events are geared toward professionals and require attendees to be 18+, select community-focused and cultural experiences may be suitable for families. If you are looking for a family-friendly event, check out TENWEST Explores on Saturday at the Children's Museum Tucson and Sunday at BOCA Tacos.