TENWEST, Southern Arizona’s largest and most dynamic professional development event is set to return to Downtown Tucson March 25-30, 2025 with featured keynote speaker, Guy Raz, host of popular podcast “How I Built This.” Early bird tickets go on sale Friday, Dec. 13.
Part professional summit, part community festival, TENWEST combines cutting-edge thought leadership in technology, entrepreneurship, and creativity to help individuals ignite bold ideas, advance their careers, and make a lasting impact on their communities. Founded in 2025, TENWEST is celebrating 10 years in Tucson. Startup Tucson hosts TENWEST and it is presented by the Arizona Commerce Authority.
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A Transformative Experience for Creatives, Entrepreneurs, and Ambitious Professionals
TENWEST is designed for a diverse range of professionals — from entrepreneurs and creatives to changemakers and business leaders. The event provides the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to think bigger, take action, grow businesses, and expand impact. Attendees will leave with practical advice, innovative strategies, and an energized network to drive their personal and professional growth.
Featured Keynote Speaker: Guy Raz
Award-winning author and podcaster Guy Raz, best known for How I Built This, will headline TENWEST 2025. Raz’s keynote, “7 Lessons I’ve Learned From the World’s Greatest Entrepreneurs,” will offer valuable insights and actionable advice from his conversations with some of the most successful entrepreneurs. This is an opportunity to hear firsthand from one of the leading voices in the world of business and innovation and will take place at Centennial Hall, University of Arizona in partnership with Arizona Arts Live.
Featured Performer: Reggie Watts
Renowned musician, comedian, writer, and actor, Reggie Watts, was the most recent bandleader on CBS’s The Late Late Show with James Corden. Watts is celebrated for his effortless blend of improvisational comedy, musical creativity, and unique performance style. With his ability to seamlessly mix humor, music, and audience interaction, Watts promises to both inspire and entertain attendees in a way that only he can.
Call for Speakers, Partners, and IdeaFunding Pitch Applications
TENWEST 2023 featured over 100 speakers across 60+ sessions. Organizers are now accepting applications for speakers and partners to join the 2025 lineup. If you are interested in sharing your expertise, insights, or innovative ideas with an engaged and passionate audience, apply to become a speaker today.
TENWEST is also accepting applications for early stage startup businesses to participate in the 27th annual IdeaFunding Pitch Competition, giving entrepreneurs a chance to compete for over $50,000 in total prizes. IdeaFunding is Southern Arizona’s largest and longest entrepreneurial conference and pitch competition and is co-led by Startup Tucson and the University of Arizona Center for Innovation (UACI). People from across the state are eligible to apply.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate TENWEST’s 10th anniversary by reimagining how we engage the Arizona business community,” said Liz Pocock, Director of TENWEST and CEO of Startup Tucson. “This year, we’ll activate new and unique venues throughout Downtown Tucson, offering an exciting experience for attendees while supporting more local businesses than ever before.”
“Guy Raz and Reggie Watts are the perfect headliners for TENWEST,” said Matt Baquet, TENWEST Producer and Owner of Ranch House Media. “They truly embody the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of the event, and we can’t wait to see how their unique perspectives inspire the Arizona community.”
For more information about TENWEST 2025, including speaker applications, IdeaFunding applications, and partnership opportunities, visit TENWEST.COM.
