North Texas is a big place, with plenty to do, see, hear, and watch. So, we scour the internet every week to find events and activities for you. As always, things may change at any time, so be sure to check the official website or registration page for the latest details.
Don’t miss anything: Get Dallas Innovates Every Day. And, if you know of a great event, tell us about it. Event details courtesy of organizers.
Wednesday, April 17
UT Dallas Big Idea Competition Alumni and Student Track Finals
Hosted by UT Dallas Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
ATEC Lecture Hall, Richardson
5 to 7 p.m.
Get ready for the 17th annual Big Idea Competition, UTD’s largest startup pitch event. Hosted annually by the Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the BIC brings the best undergraduate, graduate, and alumni together from all disciplines, to pitch the most innovative startups and ideas in front of their peers and a panel of esteemed judges for prize money. The BIC Alumni and Student Track Finals will kick off introductions and a fireside chat with the judges. Then pitches will take center stage. After winners are announced and awards are presented, the evening will cap off with a reception. Former Good Morning Texas host Hannah Davis will emcee the event and lead the fireside chat. The judging panel includes Lynn McBee, CEO of Young Women’s Prep Network; Herb Weitzman, executive chairman of Weitzman; Kevin Lavelle, founder and chairman of Mizzen+Main; and Michael Gorton (MS’88), a 14-time serial entrepreneur and founder of Teladoc.
—
Dallas Impact Lunch & Learn
Hosted by MassChallenge
3000 Pegasus Park Dr., Dallas
noon to 1:30 p.m.
Gain insights into managing cash flow to scale your startup with Queen Kima, founder and CEO of Queendom Arts Empire, at our MassChallenge Impact Lunch & Learn Kickoff! From managing day-to-day operations to making strategic decisions, a deep understanding of cash flow is crucial at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey. Kima will share insights from her 10-year experience as a serial entrepreneur to provide actionable strategies to support your startup on its journey toward growth. The MassChallenge Impact Lunch & Learn are monthly sessions dedicated to empowering startup founders with actionable strategies for success.
—
1 Million Cups
Presented by 1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Wednesday, April 17 through Friday, April 26
USA Film Festival
Hosted by USA Film festival
Angelika Film Center/Dallas, 5321 East Mockingbird Lane, Dallas
Various days and times
USA Film Festival is offering a program of more than 50 new and classic films. All programs will take place at the Angelika Film Center/Dallas. Tickets range from free to $10. Classic films include Footloose, Lady Sings the Blues, and Badlands. Find many new long and short films and documentaries.
See the full line-up and get tickets here.
Thursday, April 18
ForwardDallas Planning Public Hearings
Presented by Dallas City Plan and Zoning Commission (CPC)
Online or in-person at Dallas City Hall Council Chambers, sixth floor, 1500 Marilla St., Dallas
6 to 9 p.m.
The Dallas City Plan and Zoning Commission is inviting Dallas residents to attend a public hearing on the ForwardDallas future plan. The latest urban planning initiative in Dallas, dubbed ForwardDallas 2.0, is actively shaping the future of the city’s development and land use. Another public hearing will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on May 9.
Learn more about ForwardDallas here. Join the meeting online here.
Friday, April 19
Tech Titans Industry Lunch: AI’s ticking time bomb, Personal AI, and your job
Presented by Tech Titans
Prestonwood Country Club, 15909 Preston Rd., Dallas
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Join Tech Titans for an exhilarating discussion on the future of AI! Moderated by Steve O’Neal, Tech Titans Artificial Intelligence Forum Tri-Chair, the panel discussion will feature industry thought leaders: Dave Copps from Worlds, Skip Howard from Spacee and Dr. Mark Austin from AT&T. Discover the impact of AI, the strategic integration of AI as infrastructure, and ethical considerations in AI development. You’ll also learn about the upcoming era of personal AI and its transformative effects on job roles within organizations. Don’t miss this chance to gain insights, engage with experts, and be part of the AI revolution. Tickets are $60 for Tech Titans members and $70 for nonmembers.
—
Future of Healthcare Summit
Hosted by Northwestern University’s DFW Kellogg Alumni Network
3000 Pegasus Park Dr., Dallas
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Northwestern University | Kellogg DFW Presents Future of Healthcare Summit for a day filled with insightful discussions and networking opportunities. Learn from industry experts about the latest trends and innovations shaping the future of healthcare. The day starts with a Fireside Chat featuring Economist and Professor of Strategy at the Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Dr. Craig Garthwaite. He will interview and discuss the future of healthcare with renowned Parkland President and CEO Dr. Frederick Cerise, offering insights into what lies ahead for the industry. The summit also features multiple panels with Innovators and Disruptors, including Paul Campbell, Clinical Kellogg Graduate School of Management Associate Professor of Strategy; R’Kes Starling, CEO of Reveles; Steve Miff, President and CEO of PCCI; Steve Kaster, MD, Founder/Chair of Kellogg Physicians Network; and Irina Pelphrey, Vice President of Healthcare at Albertson’s Sincerely Health.
Learn more and get tickets here.
Tuesday, April 23
SIM DFW Bendt Distillery Social
Hosted by DIM DFW
Bendt Distilling Co., 225 S. Charles St., Lewisville
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The Society for Information Management (SIM) DFW Chapter invites members to a tasting, tour, and networking social at Bendt Distilling Co. in Lewisville. This fun event provides an opportunity for SIM DFW members to connect with each other and expand their professional networks in a relaxed setting, the organization says.
Wednesday, April 24
Navigating the Federal R&D Funding Environment
Hosted by BioNTX
Webinar
10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Join BioNTX for an engaging webinar as speakers delve into guiding organizations through the intricacies of funding agencies and crafting a funding pathway aligned with their development stage. Experts will explore strategies to progress from early, smaller nondilutive awards like SBIRs or NIH grants to securing larger awards for advanced R&D endeavors.
Learn more and register here.
—
1 Million Cups
Presented by 1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Monday, April 22 through Friday, April 26
EarthX2024 Congress of Conferences
Hosted by EarthX
Hilton Anatole Hotel, Dallas
9:30 a.m. Monday, April 22, to 9 p.m. Friday, April 26
EarthX will be hosting Earthx2024, the ninth annual Congress of Conferences, at the Hilton Anatole Hotel in Dallas. The event will bring together thousands of people and organizations from around the world to collaborate on actionable solutions for energy, oceans, climate, business, policy, and more. The five-day conference will feature more than 80 speakers and sessions exploring a wide range of sustainability topics. This year, each day will highlight a unique theme, including “The Future of Energy,” “Circular Economy,” “Money, Power, and Politics,” “Oceans and Philanthropy,” and “Wildlife and Ocean Conservation.” Featured speakers include EarthX founder Trammell S. Crow, Zimbabwean conservationist Ivan Carter, and Jay Faison, Executive Chairman of the 2040 Foundation, the Chairman of the American Flood Coalition, and a member of the American Energy Innovation Council.
Tuesday, April 23 through Thursday, April 25
EarthX E-Capital Summit
Hosted by EarthX, by invitation only
1 p.m. Tuesday through 3 p.m. Thursday
The EarthX annual E-Capital Summit is an invitation-only conference that has convened, inspired, and catalyzed action from thousands of investment firms, early to late-stage innovators, global companies, industry thought leaders, policymakers, incubators and accelerators, and researchers that have had substantial, positive impacts on investments, businesses, people, and our planet. More than a dozen technology verticals are represented. The three-day event includes an investment forum; opportunities to connect with venture capital, growth equity, private equity and funds/LPs investments between vetted investors, companies and dealmakers; a highly competitive pitch competition for the EarthX Climate Tech Prize; and options for commercialization of innovations.
Thursday, April 25
Unmasking Neurodiversity: A business case for inclusive workplaces
Hosted by DFW*ATW (Dallas-Fort Worth Alliance of Technology & Women)
UTD @ Richardson IQHQ, 1302 E. Collins Blvd., Richardson
6 to 8 p.m.
Join DFW*ATW executives, along with thought leaders, for an inspiring and thought-provoking discussion on the imperative of understanding neurodiversity at work. In an era where diversity and inclusion are paramount, understanding and embracing neurodiversity is key to fostering truly inclusive workplaces. Discover how embracing neurodiverse talent enhances innovation, creativity, and productivity within organizations. Gain valuable insights into the practical strategies and benefits of creating neurodiversity-inclusive workplaces, ultimately fostering a culture of understanding and empowerment. Speakers include Dr. Maria Hasenhuttl, UTD Dallas; Subhashini Desigan, NTT Data; Dr. Angela Durr, JP Morgan Chase; Priya Sajja, HCHB; and Swathi Nelabhatla, SheJobs.
Thursday, April 25 through Thursday, May 2
Dallas International Film Festival
Hosted by Dallas International Film Festival
Majestic Theater, Violet Crown Dallas, and Texas Theatre, Dallas
Various days and times
The Dallas International Film Festival (DIFF) is a special time when Dallas and the world come together to celebrate the art of film and filmmakers. Since 2006, the Festival has become the place for storytellers and audiences to connect and experience film as a community. Over the years DIFF has contributed more than $1 million in filmmaker awards, hosted more than 2,000 filmmakers, and screened over 2,500 films from more than 60 countries. DIFF 2024 is a global adventure that features premiere screenings, eye-opening documentaries, intriguing short films, filmmaker panels, and nightly red carpets — plus events, activations and hubs where filmmakers, screenwriters, film industry leaders, celebrities, sponsors, and audiences can all gather to enjoy and discuss film.
Tuesday, April 30
American Exceptionalism, Entrepreneurship, and Texas
Hosted by MassChallenge
3000 Pegasus Park Dr., Dallas
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Texas, as a growing hub for innovation, is experiencing a technological boom in entrepreneurship. The state that once was defined by big physical industries like energy and manufacturing is a prime locale for disruption thanks to Texas’ diverse ecosystem, commerce, and resources. Texas is home to Houston’s Innovation Corridor, which includes the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center who receives over $2 billion in research funding annually, to the rise of Pegasus Park in Dallas, a hub for biomedical research.
Join MassChallenge for a fireside chat to explore how the state has shifted from its sole identity as an oil and gas titan to becoming a key region for startups to gain traction. Hear from Cullum Clark, Director of Economic Growth Initiatives at the George W. Bush Presidential Center and co-author of “The Texas Triangle: An Emerging Power in the Global Economy,” and Cait Brumme, CEO of MassChallenge, a top-three global accelerator program.
—
Your Start Up Pitch Competition
Hosted by The DEC Network and powered by PNC Bank
The DEC Network @ Redbird, Suite #200, Event Center, 3560 Camp Wisdom Rd., Dallas
4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Come enjoy the Shark Tank-style Your Start Up Pitch Competition. Attendees can take notes on presentation skills and judge feedback, evaluate the audience, and find networking opportunities and access to entrepreneurial resources. Your Start Up is a 13-week intensive program designed to equip entrepreneurs with the resources, foundational tools, and best practices to take their business from a side hustle to a profitable future. These for-profit startups have been operating for 1-3 years, making under $50,000 annually.
—
Texas Women’s Foundation Leadership Forum & Awards Celebration
Hosted by Texas Women’s Foundation
Omni Dallas Hotel
3:30 to 8 p.m.
Join Texas Women’s Foundation to celebrate and elevate the voices of women leaders across Texas through their Maura Women Helping Women and Young Leader Awards. The event kicks off with leadership forums, followed by a cocktail reception, and the leadership awards celebration. The guest moderator is Deborah Roberts, senior national affairs correspondent at ABC News and Contributing Anchor for ABC 20/20. Save the date.
Wednesday, May 1
Moody Foundation M-Pact Fund Cycle 2 webinar
Hosted by Moody Foundation
Online via Zoom
10 a.m. CT
The Moody Foundation is offering grants of $1B over 20 years to support Texas education through nonprofits and public entities that address Early Learning or Postsecondary Success. With benefits extending beyond grant funding, the Education M-Pact Fund will cultivate a comprehensive network of grantees who are fueling student success in areas of deepest impact and greatest need. This webinar will provide an overview of the Education M-Pact Fund Cycle 1 RFP. All those who are interested in submitting an application are strongly encouraged to attend and submit questions in advance. Applications open April. 15 and close May 30.
Learn more about the fund here.
—
1 Million Cups
Presented by 1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Thursday, May 2
Convergence AI Dallas
Hosted by the Dallas Regional Chamber
Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas, Irving
9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
This full-day conference provides a platform to delve into cutting-edge trends and innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential for revolutionizing business practices. Hear keynotes from AI leaders, network with industry pioneers and experts, explore exhibits showcasing advancements in AI, and learn about the latest applications of the technology at Convergence AI Dallas. Featured speakers include Jorge Corral and Venkatesh G. Rao, both of Accenture; Adam Sutherland of Amazon; Mark Austin of AT&T; Michelle Boston of Bank of America; John Almasan of TIAA; Ashok Krish of Tata Consultancy Services; Mukesh Kumar of Slalom; and Texas Rep. Giovanni Capriglione.
Learn more here and register here.
—
United to Learn Inaugural Impact Showcase
Hosted by United to Learn
DEC on Dragon, 1414 Dragon St., Dallas
5 p.m.
United to Learn (U2L) hosts its Inaugural Impact Showcase, which celebrates this year’s educators, sponsors, partners, and volunteers who helped make an impact in the Dallas ISD U2L network schools. Enjoy gallery-style interactive exhibits, visit with changemakers, and sample hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Celebrate and learn how your efforts can fuel student potential for years to come. The evening begins at 5 p.m. with a welcome from the Arcadia Park Elementary School Drumline, followed by the exhibit showcase, a rooftop cocktail reception, and the awards and recognition program.
Tuesday, May 7 through Thursday, May 9
The NAMA Show: The Consumer Convenience Experience
Presented by NAMA
Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Dallas
From 7 a.m. Tuesday through 1 p.m. Thursday
NAMA represents the $34.9 billion U.S. Convenience services industry (think unattended retail like vending machines, autonomous coffee kiosks, micro markets, and more). This show features the latest trends, samples of the latest tech and products, opportunities in the market, networking, and suppliers. The big-name speaker is former President George W. Bush, who will address attendees on Tuesday afternoon.
Wednesday, May 8
1 Million Cups
Presented by 1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Thursday, May 9
WEDallas Mompreneur Summit
Hosted by Women Entrepreneurs Dallas and Sponsored by Capital One
Virtual summit organized by DEC Network
9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Join The DEC Network for the WEDallas Mompreneur Summit sponsored by Capital One and featuring an incredible lineup of speakers and topics. This year’s event will be a completely virtual summit featuring Nina Vaca, Founder, Chairman & CEO Pinnacle Group as the Keynote Speaker. Topics include navigating the funding landscape, branding strategies, building networks, and more.
WE (Women Entrepreneurs) Dallas is a signature program created by Capital One and The DEC Network. This year-round series is designed to equip, inspire and empower women entrepreneurs in North Texas. WEDallas Signature Programming will include a Mompreneur Kickoff Event, a WEDallas Cohort, WEDallas Session at Women of Innovation Summit and more, all focusing on elevating women entrepreneurs by providing training and resources.
—
ForwardDallas Planning Public Hearings
Presented by Dallas City Plan and Zoning Commission (CPC)
Online or in-person at Dallas City Hall Council Chambers, sixth floor, 1500 Marilla St., Dallas
6 to 9 p.m.
The Dallas City Plan and Zoning Commission is inviting Dallas residents to attend a public hearing on the ForwardDallas future plan. The latest urban planning initiative in Dallas, dubbed ForwardDallas 2.0, is actively shaping the future of the city’s development and land use.
Learn more about ForwardDallas here. Join the meeting online here.
Thursday, May 9 and Friday, May 10
Conscious Capitalism Conference
Presented by Conscious Capitalism Dallas Chapter
Fairmont Dallas, 1717 N. Akard St., Dallas
Thursday at 1 p.m. through Friday at noon
Whether you are an CEO wanting to take your team to the next level, a professional early in your career, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a student wanting to use your career as a force for good — this is your opportunity to join the conversations that shape the future of business, Conscious Capitalism Chapter members say. You’ll find tools to help empower your team to integrate conscious principles into their daily work, connect and collaborate with like-minded leaders, and be inspired with actionable strategies to help you use business as a force for good. Featured speakers include Miki Agrawal, Founder of TUSHY, Wild, and THINX; Sam Horn, Founder and CEO of The Intrigue Agency; John Mackey, Co-Founder and Former CEO of Whole Foods Market; and Neha Sangwan, CEO and Founder of Intuitive Intelligence.
Tuesday, May 14
2024 SIM Women Leadership Summit
Hosted by SIM DFW
Omni Las Colinas Hotel, 221 Las Colinas Blvd. E., Irving
7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
The Society for Information Management (SIM) Women invites members, fellow SIM members, Summit Partners, and guests to their 2024 Leadership Summit themed “New Intersections Ahead!” The event features thought leaders exploring the convergence of old and new, technology and humanity, emotions and data. Attendees will experience a transformative day of professional growth and networking opportunities.
Tuesday, May 14 and Wednesday, May 15
BioBasics 101: The Biology of Biotech for the Non-Scientist
Hosted by biotech Primer in partnership with BioNTX
DFW Airport Headquarters, 2400 Aviation Dr., Irving
9 a.m. Tuesday to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday
BioBasics 101: The Biology of Biotech for the Non-Scientist offers an exploration of the fundamental scientific principles that underpin the life sciences. It delves into the crucial roles of the FDA, NIH, academia, and drug sponsors and how they interact to promote scientific breakthroughs. It thoroughly explains the biological foundation of cells, DNA, RNA, and proteins, uncovering their applications in biopharmaceuticals. Building on this foundational knowledge, BioBasics 101 details the genetic basis of diseases, highlighting the devastation of mutations and the impact of genomics and proteomics on personalized medicine. This course culminates in genetic engineering and biomanufacturing, where all the essential biology principles learned are applied. Reduced rate for registration before March 15 and for BioNTX members.
Wednesday, May 15
1 Million Cups
Presented by 1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Wednesday, May 22
Tech and Leadership Talk
Hosted by DFW*ATW (DFW Alliance of Women & Technology)
Location TBD
noon
Join DFW*ATW for the second installment of the new Tech and Leadership Talk series hosted by Fern Johnson – former VP Sector CTO & Delivery, PepsiCo, Inc. Engage in dialogue designed to inform & inspire women and allies by equipping them with critical tech and leadership skills and knowledge. Come build new relationships and strengthen existing ones while forging pathways to accelerate leadership and career growth for all. Topics during this Talk event include AI and Gen AI, ChatGPT and Large Language Models, and Leadership On The Line. Location and speakers to be announced soon.
—
1 Million Cups
Presented by 1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Wednesday, May 29
1 Million Cups
Presented by 1 Million Cups
Various North Texas locations and times
Every Wednesday, 1 Million Cups communities around North Texas and the country meet to give each other “support, encouragement, and feedback over a cup of coffee.” Entrepreneurs present their businesses to the group, but “it’s not a pitch; it’s a chance to learn, collaborate and grow,” organizers say. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls. Some have Zoom live feeds.
Friday, May 31 through Sunday, June 2
Dreamhack Dallas 2024
Presented by Dreamhack
Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Dallas
8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
DreamHack is an immersive gaming experience where the community comes to life. At this festival, you come to experience professional esports tournaments, amateur and high school gaming tournaments, world-famous bring-your-own-computer (BYOC) LAN party, cosplay, art, activities, expo, screenings and more.
Friday, June 7 through Sunday, June 9
FAN EXPO Dallas
Presented by FAN EXPO
Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Dallas
4 to 9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
If you’re into comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, gaming, or cosplay, come to FAN EXPO and find your fandom family. From discussions, debates, comics, and gaming, there is something for everyone. Panel discussions cover everything from fabrication to acting, with a lineup of pros to show you how to take your skills to the next level. Attend a panel, check out a demo, or meet them one-on-one. Talk with comic legends, writers, and artists, check out movie props, and meet up with fans from many different genres, series, and crafts. Shop thousands of retailers. Celebrity guests include William Shatner, Marisa Tomei, Susan Sarandon, and Geena Davis.
ONGOING
Lines Crossing: Intersections of Art and Technology
Hosted by IQ Design, a design-research center at the University of Texas at Dallas
UTD @The Richardson IQ, 3010 Collins Blvd, Richardson, TX 75631
Join IQ Design for the opening reception of its newest art exhibition exploring the intersections of art and technology.
The exhibition features two collections: CODE || ART showcasing pioneers and emerging artists working at the intersection of computers and Streams of the Past which features artists working with old media as platforms for new aesthetic experiences.
Through Saturday, April 27
The Lunar Light: Discovery
Hosted by Back to Space
Former Valley View Mall site, 5743 LBJ Freeway, Lewisville
Various dates and times
North Texans, get ready to walk on the moon. “The Lunar Light: Discovery” transforms the former Valley View Mall into a lunar landscape. This interactive space odyssey challenges participants to solve the mystery of a blue light emanating from a recent asteroid collision on the moon — a phenomenon capable of knocking out electronics. Guests will experience state-of-the-art virtual reality, while Gaia, an all-knowing AI, explains your lunar mission. They’ll also chat with robot DG-33 and Stella in the research lab on the quest to solve the mystery of The Lunar Light.
Attendees can contribute to the Aldrin Family Foundation, run by the family of Apollo 11 Astronaut Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, to help foster the next wave of space explorers by providing educational resources for high school students passionate about space.
Through Wednesday, May 1
Generative AI for The Rest of Us Course begins at Collin College
Promoted by IoT Texas
Collin College Continuing Education, Courtyard Center Campus, 4800 Preston Park Blvd., Plano
6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays
This in-person course offers a broad, high-level introduction to AI and Generative AI for business and non-technical audiences, with no programming expertise required. With insightful, practical, and actionable information, the course provides the lowdown on how AI and Generative AI came about, a solid understanding of what these powerful technologies can do, and more importantly, what their limitations and caveats are. The course instructor is Dr. Yeshwant Muthusamy, a tech consultant specializing in Generative AI, Spoken Language Systems, AI chatbots, IoT, and more. The cost of the six-week course is $349.
Through May 30
Dinosaurs Around the World: The Great Outdoors
Hosted by Fort Worth Botanic Garden
3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth, TX, 76107
Regular garden hours
Travel back to a prehistoric world right in the heart of Fort Worth at the Botanic Garden’s latest exhibit, “Dinosaurs Around the World: The Great Outdoors,” available from January 26 through May 30. The unique outdoor experience, created in collaboration with renowned dinosaur paleontologist Gregory M. Erickson, showcases advanced animatronic dinosaurs from every continent. Embark on a journey through the Age of Reptiles and discover a narrative enriched with the latest research.
Get ready to have your ‘Passport to Pangea’ stamped as you encounter these awe-inspiring animatronic dinosaurs in their naturalistic outdoor settings. This exhibit educates and entertains, offering a perfect blend of adventure and learning for visitors of all ages.
Go here for admission and more information.
Through July 14
Walk this Way: Footwear from the Stuart Weitzman Collection of Historic Shoes
Presented by the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, with supporting sponsor Neiman Marcus
Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, 300 N. Houston, Dallas
Timed entry tickets available. Museum hours: 10 am. to 5 p.m. Closed Tuesdays and on Easter, March 31
From silk boudoir shoes created for the 1867 Paris Exposition to leather spectator pumps signed by the 1941 New York Yankees, Walk this Way features more than 100 striking pairs of shoes. This exhibition presents footwear – spanning nearly 200 years – from the collection of iconic shoe designer Stuart Weitzman, and businesswoman and philanthropist Jane Gershon Weitzman. An integral part of our everyday lives, shoes not only protect our feet, but tell stories centered around women’s labor activism, the fight for suffrage and equal rights, the sexual revolution, and more.
Several special programs will be offered during the exhibition’s run:
- From Heel to Toe: Behind Walk This Way (March 19) – A panel with a look behind the exhibit, featuring Valerie Paley, Walk this Way exhibition curator, and Edward Maeder, author of the exhibition’s catalog.
- 9to5: The Story of a Movement (May 23) – A special documentary screening of the previously untold story of the fight that inspired a hit and changed the American workplace, featuring interviews with 9to5’s founders and actor and activist Jane Fonda.
- Immigrants, Innovators, and Icons: Jewish Americans and the Fashion Industry (July 11) – Annette Becker, curator and director of the University of North Texas’s Texas Fashion Collection, will share stories of Jewish change-makers in twentieth-century dress history.
Tickets are timed entry. Learn more and get tickets here.
Through September 1
Seward Johnson Sculptures in the Garden
Hosted by the Fort Worth Botanic Garden
Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth
Open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Twenty-one life-size sculptures by the late artist Seward Johnson will be on display throughout the Garden, Mar. 1 – Sept. 1, 2024. This head-turning exhibit of “living” art will take Garden guests by surprise as they encounter sculptures that fool the eye and beg for double takes. Strategically placed to blend with their surroundings, Mr. Johnson’s unique creations strive to make everyday occurrences special and bring classic art to life. Experience the joy of discovering these lifelike sculptures placed unexpectedly, yet harmoniously in the Garden’s landscape. The exhibit is included in general admission.
Learn more and get timed entry tickets here.
Through September 22
T.rex: The Ultimate Predator
Hosted by Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field St., Dallas
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Daily
T. rex: The Ultimate Predator explores the remarkable features that allowed T. rex to dominate its competition, examines the sensory abilities and social behaviors of this powerful hunter, and reveals how the world’s most iconic dinosaur evolved from a superfamily that included more than two dozen species and spanned 100 million years. Explore our evolving understanding of this theropod, learn about a number of recent tyrannosaur discoveries, and find out how paleontologists study fossil specimens to understand the biology and behavior of T. rex.
SAVE THE DATE
Save the Date image: istockphoto
Friday, June 7
North Texas Food Bank’s Taste of the Cowboys Fundraiser
Hosted by North Texas Food Bank
Ford Center at the Star in Frisco – Dallas Cowboys World HQ, 9 Cowboys Way, Frisco
6:30 to 10:30 p.m.
The North Texas Food Bank and the Dallas Cowboys will host the 20th Annual Taste of the Cowboys fundraiser, presented by Ashley, on the field at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco – home of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters – on Friday, June 7. The event will feature live entertainment by country star John Michael Montgomery and gourmet tailgate food stations from some of DFW’s favorite restaurants, led by Taste of the Cowboys Founding Chef, Kent Rathbun.
All proceeds from the Taste of the Cowboys provide critical funds to support the North Texas Food Bank’s Nourish the Future programs that directly target child hunger.
Thursday, June 13 to Saturday, June 15
Good Soil 2024
Hosted by the Good Soil Movement and the T.D. Jakes Foundation
AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas
Save the date
Good Soil plans to increase generational wealth and employment by supporting and nurturing under-resourced entrepreneurs. The organization aims to lead partners in the creation and retention of one million entrepreneurs over the next decade.
Tuesday, September 19
North Texas Tech Connect Conference
Hosted by North Texas Tech Connect
Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center, 1502 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The North Texas Tech Connect Conference, the region’s premier single-day event for the IT executive community, provides a unique opportunity for IT leaders to gather and explore ways to maintain a competitive edge in the global economy. Attendees will learn strategies for driving innovation and efficiency in their organizations. The conference aims to support the growth of the IT industry in North Texas.
Thursday, October 3 to Friday, October 4
iC Life Science Summit
Hosted by BioNTX
Loews Arlington Hotel & Convention Center, 888 Nolan Ryan Expressway, Arlington
Save the date, 7:30 a.m. Thursday to 5 p.m. Friday
The BioNTX iC³ Life Science Summit provides a dynamic platform for the North Texas bioscience community to engage in insightful discussions, share cutting-edge research, and explore emerging technologies that have the potential to revolutionize the future of healthcare and biomedicine. Early registration is now open, as of March.
Get on the list.
Dallas Innovates, every day.
Sign up to keep your eye on what’s new and next in Dallas-Fort Worth, every day.
R E A D N E X T
-
The hybrid event in August will take place in person at SMU and virtually. The seventh annual Dallas Startup Week powered by Capital One is Dallas-Fort Worth's largest event focused on driving entrepreneurial success, economic impact, and innovation in the region.
-
You'll find deadlines coming up for a new accelerator program; and many more opportunities.
-
You’ve found Dallas Innovates’ archive of news briefs from July to September 2021.
-
Nonprofit BUiLT is hosting the event to highlight the success and possibilities of Black tech talent in the region. “There is no talent pipeline problem,” says Peter Beasley, co-founder of the Blacks United in Leading Technology International. “Black tech talent is widely available, especially in North Texas.”
-
With Dallas ranked as one of the top cities in America for tech pros, UT Dallas and Fullstack have launched four skills training bootcamps focused on coding, cybersecurity, data analytics, and DevOps. The online bootcamps begin in November with tuition at $11,995 each.
