Every Wednesday morning, a group of entrepreneurs, students, and business leaders gather in St. George for a session of coffee and conversation. The weekly meetup is part of 1 Million Cups, a national program dedicated to building local startup ecosystems through peer-to-peer support rather than competitive pitching. Instead of seeking funding or trying to close sales, participants focus on addressing real-world business challenges. The environment is designed to be a place where founders can ask questions and receive honest, actionable feedback from peers.
Darren Prince, Washington County’s economic development director, acts as the lead organizer for the local chapter. He notes that the goal is to create a space that reflects the collaborative nature of Southern Utah. By keeping the sessions focused on shared learning, organizers aim to connect people across different industries and stages of business. The format includes a brief presentation from a founder on a current hurdle, followed by twenty minutes of audience discussion.
Since its launch, the St. George chapter has attracted a diverse group of attendees, including educators, students, and professionals. These meetings serve as a hub for mentorship and connections, often leading to partnerships that continue long after the coffee runs out. The program is open to the public and offers a way for anyone curious about local innovation to get involved.
Entrepreneurs interested in presenting do not need to meet specific industry requirements, though they should be prepared to discuss both their wins and their obstacles. Interested founders can reach out to the organizers through the official contact email or follow the group on their digital platforms for upcoming events. This initiative seeks to become a permanent fixture for business development in Southern Utah.