Accelerator for Tennessee’s
Founders of Color
Twende, Kiswahili for “let’s go,” is a statewide, 9-month accelerator program helping founders of color grow their professional network and scale their businesses.
2024 Applications Closed
Twende, Kiswahili for “let’s go,” is a statewide, 9-month accelerator program helping founders of color grow their professional network and scale their businesses.
The Twende Accelerator, powered by Nashville Entrepreneur Center, is a statewide program offering minority-owned businesses with on-demand curriculum, capital resources, coaching and mentorship.
On-Demand Curriculum
As a statewide, virtual-first program, we offer founders the flexibility to access curriculum at their own pace.
Procured Meetups and Events
Throughout the program, you’ll have the opportunity to attend different networking events that put you in the room with thought leaders and experts.
Customer & Capital Connections
In 2022, we added a new supplier diversity initiative, connecting our founders with stakeholders and procurement leaders to secure opportunities with government and corporate entitites.
Monthly Peer Groups
Each month, Twende founders will have peer group sessions facilitated by a designated coach.
NEC Member Benefits
When you enroll, you’ll have access to over 290 mentors in our network and be able to enjoy free cowork space.
Capital Resources
The Re:Generate Fund, in partnership with Nashville Entrepreneur Center, supports Twende founders through non-diluted grants, aiming to fill the critical early funding gap for founders of color.
Join a supportive community of ambitous founders as you grow and scale your business.
“Twende has been more than just a program; it’s been a catalyst for growth. The interactions and relationships have enriched my professional network and aligned me with successful entrepreneurs who share a similar vision and drive. These connections have been pivotal in shaping my entrepreneurial journey, inspiring confidence, and facilitating collaborative opportunities. ”
– Erica Battle (Twende 2023 Alumni)
Em is a dedicated and experienced non-profit and community leader with a strong background in program & people leadership, DEI and community engagement. As a Program Manager, Em works directly with founders in the Twende Program, championing their growth and development. Prior to the EC, she spent the last decade developing and managing innovative educational experiences in an effort to close opportunity gaps for K-12 students in the Chicagoland area. Amongst a large catalog of program initiatives, Em worked closely with several corporations to develop a summer accelerator for young entrepreneurs.
