LaunchTN Seeks Partner to Expand Entrepreneurial Center Network in Southern Middle Tennessee

Deal News | Apr 14, 2025 | Tennessee Technology Developme

LaunchTN, an entity focused on fostering entrepreneurship and innovation throughout Tennessee, is seeking a partner to expand its Regional Entrepreneur Center (EC) Network in the Southern Middle Tennessee region. This is a strategic initiative to connect startup founders to essential resources, enhance access to capital, and facilitate the commercialization of technology and products. The selected partner must have a physical presence in the region and create outreach plans to inform entrepreneurs about available resources. Current partners span regions including Greater Memphis, Northwest Tennessee, and others. The call for proposals is part of LaunchTN's effort to maintain a robust network of ECs that connect emerging companies with mentors, capital, and resources. LaunchTN will assess proposals based on factors such as existing support frameworks for early-stage companies, capacity to engage mentors, and the feasibility of outlined goals. Successful applicants can apply for up to $175,000 per fiscal year. Proposals are due by May 12, 2025, with decisions to be made by June 2025, and contracts starting as early as July 1, 2025.

Sectors

  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Venture Capital and Startups
  • Economic Development

Geography

  • United States – The article is centered on activities and initiatives within the state of Tennessee, United States.
  • Tennessee – LaunchTN is a Tennessee-based initiative focusing on the development of startup ecosystems within specific regions of the state.
  • Southern Middle Tennessee – The expansion target for the Regional EC Network is the Southern Middle Tennessee region, covering specific counties.

Industry

  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation – The article discusses initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in Tennessee by expanding the network of Regional Entrepreneur Centers.
  • Venture Capital and Startups – The focus on providing startups with access to capital and commercialization resources aligns with the venture capital and startup industry.
  • Economic Development – The expansion of Regional ECs is aimed at regional economic growth and development by supporting high-growth startups.

Financials

  • $175,000 per fiscal year – Funding amount available to each successful applicant for expanding the Regional EC Network.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
LaunchTNInitiator and Funding EntityCompanyAn organization dedicated to supporting and promoting entrepreneurship and innovation throughout Tennessee.
Tennessee Technology Development CorporationSupporting EntityPE FirmA firm supporting technology development and entrepreneurship within Tennessee.
EpicenterCurrent Regional EC PartnerCompanyA Regional Entrepreneur Center serving the Greater Memphis region.
The MillCurrent Regional EC PartnerCompanyA Regional Entrepreneur Center serving the Northwest Tennessee region.
theCOCurrent Regional EC PartnerCompanyA Regional Entrepreneur Center serving the Southwest Tennessee region.
Nashville Entrepreneur CenterCurrent Regional EC PartnerCompanyA Regional Entrepreneur Center serving the Northern Middle Tennessee region.
The Biz FoundryCurrent Regional EC PartnerCompanyA Regional Entrepreneur Center serving the Upper Cumberland region.
The Company LabCurrent Regional EC PartnerCompanyA Regional Entrepreneur Center serving the Southeast Tennessee region.
Knoxville Entrepreneur CenterCurrent Regional EC PartnerCompanyA Regional Entrepreneur Center serving the East Tennessee region.
Sync SpaceCurrent Regional EC PartnerCompanyA Regional Entrepreneur Center serving the Northeast Tennessee region.