Corner to Corner
The Academy is a ten-week program dedicated to helping entrepreneurs plan, launch, and grow their own small business. This main cohort-based program also includes an extensive alumni network and alumni programming.
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Mission
Our mission is to help make Nashville the #1 place to launch and grow a minority owned business in the South.
Storytelling
A graduate from our first cohort of Corner to Corner’s The Academy has spent the past two years building a catering business. He opened a brick and mortar restaurant in Fall of 2019. The new restaurant will not only have an impact on his family’s financial stability, but will also provide employment opportunities for the community.
Another graduate of Corner to Corner’s The Academy started the class an army veteran while sleeping in his car. He now calls himself “The Black Mr. Clean.” His business recently outgrew its one cleaning van; they have upgraded to operate out of two work vans plus an office space in North Nashville. The business provides financial security for his growing family, an opportunity to partner within the community, and job opportunities for neighbors.
Our Impact (2022)
500 individuals served
30 training programs or workshops offered
8 funding partners
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Market Access
Supporting entrepreneurs to expand their market (i.e. assistance with digital marketing, gaining government contracts, and entering supplier networks).
Removal of Barriers
Providing support to entrepreneurs to empower them and become more educated business owners (i.e. general business support, training in accessing procurement).
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4 Total number of businesses with new/improved physical spaces
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8 Businesses with expanded presence (brick and mortar, digital, contracts, etc)
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50 Total number of individual (1:1) technical assistance sessions conducted
Type of Organization
- Nonprofit Organization
Locations Served
- Nashville
- Antioch
Key Programs and Initiatives
- The Academy
Types of Offerings
- Entrepreneurial Training
- Workshops
- Matchmaking/networking opportunities
- 1 to 1 business advising
- Mentoring/coaching
- Cohort Training Programs
Program Delivery
- In Person
Members of the Black Community Served
- Immigrants
- Returning Citizens/Formerly incarcerated
- Women
- Youth
- Veterans
- 65+/Senior Citizens
Locations of Members of the Black Community Served
- Low-income areas
- Low to moderate income areas
- Suburban areas
- Urban areas
Targeted Entrepreneur Segments
- Business Services
- Wholesale & Retail Trade
- Accommodation & Food Services
- Media & Publishing
- Health Care & Social Services
- Technology & Software Development
Business Stage
- Start Up : a young business that is just beginning to develop and determine a market fit.
- Stay Up : a business that has determined its market fit, but its product/service has not been validated nor has it achieved sustainability.
Cost of Programs
- $101-$200