First Year. One Mission. Endless Possibilities.

Nine months ago, the NOVA Entrepreneur Center set out with a simple but ambitious mission: to empower entrepreneurs, strengthen small businesses, help founders fund their start-ups, and cultivate a thriving culture of innovation across Southern Middle Tennessee and beyond.

In these few months, we’ve witnessed firsthand what happens when vision meets opportunity. Through entrepreneur boot camps, educational workshops, lunch & learn programs, mentoring, speaking engagements, workforce networking events, guest speakers, investment and funding panel discussions, and strategic partnerships, we’ve connected aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, students, educators, and community leaders with the resources they need to move ideas forward.

Our success has been built on collaboration. Together with partners including UT Southern, LaunchTN, the UT Research Foundation, TCAT Pulaski, the UT Space Institute, the UT Center for Industrial Services, state and local economic development leaders, local governments, industry drivers, Main Street Partners, Chambers of Commerce, regional banks, and community organizations we’ve worked to create an entrepreneurial ecosystem where innovation can flourish—not just in large cities, but in rural communities that are rich with talent, creativity, innovative moxie, and determination.

While we’re proud of what we’ve accomplished, we believe the most exciting chapters are still ahead. New technologies, emerging industries, and a new generation of entrepreneurs are creating unprecedented opportunities for rural Tennessee. NOVA Entrepreneur Center is committed to helping lead that transformation by fostering innovation, encouraging collaboration, and supporting businesses from idea to impact.

Our first year has laid the foundation. One mission continues to guide us. And the possibilities ahead are truly endless.

Thank you to every entrepreneur, partner, volunteer, educator, and supporter who has been part of our journey. Together, we’re not just building businesses—we’re building the future of our communities.