
Business & Startup Scene in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States
1. Knoxville Entrepreneur Center (KEC)
A hub for entrepreneurs, providing resources and guidance to startups.
- Customized Resources: Offers tailored programs based on the stage of business development.
- Community Networking: Connects entrepreneurs with mentors, investors, and other resources.
- Business Education: Provides educational workshops and training sessions.
2. Tech2020
A tech-focused coworking space fostering innovation in Knoxville.
- Collaborative Environment: Encourages collaboration and idea sharing among members.
- Tech-centric Events: Hosts tech events, workshops, and meetups for the community.
- Flexible Workspace: Offers a variety of workspace options, from desks to private offices.
3. Launch Tennessee
A public-private partnership supporting entrepreneurs and startups statewide.
- Statewide Reach: Offers resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities across Tennessee.
- Investor Connections: Facilitates introductions to angel investors, venture capitalists, and strategic partners.
- Entrepreneurship Education: Provides educational programs and resources for entrepreneurs at every stage.
4. Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
A U.S. Department of Energy science and technology laboratory with a focus on advanced energy, materials, and national security.
- Scientific Research: Conducts research in various fields, including clean energy, advanced materials, and computer science.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Works with local businesses, startups, and universities on innovative projects.
- Innovation Crossroads: An incubator program that offers resources to early-stage companies in energy and manufacturing.
5. University of Tennessee Research Park
A research park hosting several business, research, and development organizations.
- Innovative Companies: Home to a variety of tech-focused companies, including startups and established businesses.
- Collaborative Environment: Encourages collaboration between academia, industry, and government partners.
- Access to Resources: Offers access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources.
6. Knoxville Chamber of Commerce
An organization supporting local businesses by advocating, connecting, and educating members.
- Business Advocacy: Acts as a voice for the business community, advocating for policies that benefit businesses.
- Networking Opportunities: Provides opportunities to connect with other local businesses and professionals.
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, seminars, and training sessions on various business topics.
7. Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC)
A network of small business development centers offering resources and guidance to entrepreneurs.
- Customized Assistance: Offers customized, one-on-one consulting services for small businesses.
- Training and Education: Provides training programs, workshops, and resources on various business topics.
- Access to Capital: Assists businesses in securing loans and grants, as well as accessing other forms of capital.
8. Innovation Valley
A public-private partnership focused on economic development in East Tennessee.
- Economic Development: Works to attract new businesses, create jobs, and foster innovation.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Collaborates with local organizations, businesses, and universities to achieve its goals.
- Entrepreneurial Resources: Provides resources for entrepreneurs, including funding, mentorship, and office space.
9. The Knoxville Entrepreneurial Center (KEC) Business Incubator
A business incubator providing resources for early-stage startups in various industries.
- Tailored Programs: Offers tailored programs based on the needs of each startup.
- Access to Resources: Provides access to resources such as office space, mentors, and funding opportunities.
- Networking Opportunities: Offers networking events and opportunities for startups to connect with potential customers and partners.
10. The Launch Lab at UT
A business incubator at the University of Tennessee focusing on tech-based startups.
- Tech Focus: Specialized in helping tech-focused startups develop and grow.
- Mentorship and Resources: Offers mentorship, resources, and access to industry experts.
- Collaborative Environment: Encourages collaboration among startups, researchers, and entrepreneurs.
11. The Knoxville Innovation and Entrepreneurship District (KIED)
A district dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in downtown Knoxville.
- Innovative Environment: Attracts tech-focused businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs.
- Collaboration Opportunities: Promotes collaboration between businesses, universities, and the community.
- Access to Resources: Provides resources such as office space, funding opportunities, and mentorship programs.
12. The Knoxville Angels
A network of angel investors providing capital to early-stage startups.
- Investment Opportunities: Provides investment opportunities for local startups seeking funding.
- Mentorship and Guidance: Offers mentorship and guidance to entrepreneurs during the investment process.
- Networking Opportunities: Provides opportunities for startups to connect with potential investors and partners.
13. The Knoxville Entrepreneur Center (KEC) FastForward
A startup accelerator for early-stage, tech-focused startups in East Tennessee.
- Tech Focus: Specialized in helping tech-focused startups develop and grow.
- Mentorship and Resources: Offers mentorship, resources, and access to industry experts.
- Funding Opportunities: Provides funding opportunities through pitch competitions and investment networks.
14. The Knoxville Entrepreneur Center (KEC) Launch Lab
A coworking space for early-stage startups offering resources and guidance.
- Collaborative Environment: Encourages collaboration among startups, entrepreneurs, and mentors.
- Resources and Guidance: Offers resources such as office space, mentorship, and business education.
- Flexible Workspace: Provides flexible workspace options for startups at various stages of development.
15. The Knoxville Entrepreneur Center (KEC) Launch Kitchen
A shared-use commercial kitchen for food entrepreneurs and startups.
- Food Focus: Specialized in supporting food-focused startups.
- Shared Resources: Offers shared resources such as commercial kitchen space and equipment.
- Business Education: Provides educational programs focused on food-related businesses.