Why is the initiative called 100Knoxville?

There are two reasons:

First, it is inspired by The 800 Initiative in Memphis, Tennessee. 800 refers to the number of Black-owned firms in Memphis. Meanwhile, 100 refers to the approximate number of Black-owned firms in Knoxville according to the last census.

Second, like our friends in Memphis, our goal is to help Black-owned firms with employees to double their revenue, and to help Black-owned firms without employees to reach the $100,000 (aka $100k) per year revenue milestone and hire their first employee.

Who should apply for 100Knoxville Grant Cohort programs?

Our selection committee looks at the following when determining their selections for each Grant Cohort Program:

• Is the business located in the Greater Knoxville / Knox County area?

• Is the business post-revenue? (Note: This program is for businesses that already have revenue / sales.)

• Is the applicant a Black-owned business?

• Did the applicant provide a detailed description of their business? Is there a website or social media presence that can be used to learn more?

If your business meets these requirements, then we invite you to apply!

Who will select the companies?

A small group of people who have been active participants in the 100Knoxville program will select the five companies for each Grant Cohort. For the other instructional programs, the facilitator will also provide input on the selection process.

When are companies notified if they are selected for a cohort?

We typically notify companies 4 weeks prior to the start of each cohort. Start dates for each cohort will be listed on the application page.

How will I be notified if my business is selected?

You will be contacted via email by a member of the 100Knoxville Team. The email will contain “@knoxec.net” as we are under the umbrella of the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center.

What should I expect from the program if I am selected?

The 100Knoxville Grant Cohort Program is set up as a sprint over 5-weeks. It is an intensive program that dives deep into participating businesses to help create structure, systems, and strategies to grow their businesses. The program includes:

• A pre-program workshop to help participants prep to maximize time during the 5-week program. This workshop includes tools to create a business model canvas and Profit & Loss statement which will be shared with mentors.

• A "Meet Your Mentor" session so participants and program mentors can meet and schedule their weekly mentor sessions.

• Weekly tasks, videos, and education sent by program facilitator.

• A private FB Group set up for each cohort to upload assignments, ask questions, and share information.

• Participants are expected every week to complete assignments, meet with mentor, and attend Friday coaching sessions. We anticipate this all should take 3 hours every week.

• A feature story on all KEC social media platforms.

• Other media interview requests during the program.

• Following the completion of each program, the KEC team will set up a photoshoot and interview time for participants.

• Requirements to receive the $5,000 grant at the completion of the program:

  • Attend pre-program workshop

  • Attend "Meet Your Mentor" session

  • Attend all 5 Friday coaching sessions (participants may make-up 1 absence)

  • Meet with your mentor weekly

  • Turn in all assignments to facilitator by the deadline given

Please contact catherine@knoxec.net with any questions.