Mentor Networks

Overview

The LaunchTN Mentor Networks program is a free statewide mentoring program for early-stage companies in the life science, advanced energy, agriculture, and automotive industries. The objective of the Networks is for entrepreneurs to develop a compelling commercialization strategy and prepare for funding and growth.

This initiative is modeled after San Diego’s successful CONNECT Springboard and was initiated by Launch Tennessee in 2014. Since its inception, participating companies in our mentor networks have raised over $19 million in capital and won over $15.3 million in federal grants.

Current partners include:

BioTN
Tennessee Advanced Energy Business Council
TennSMART
Knoxville Entrepreneur Center (in partnership with AgLaunch)

Features

Mentor Network graduates will have a sharp, informative pitch ready to present to investors, strategic partners and/or customers. Participating companies receive expertise from mentors on topics including:

Business model
Marketing plan
Financial model & projections
Intellectual property
Valuation
Due Diligence
Financing
Industry feedback
Presenting to investors, strategic partners and customers

Participation in the Mentor Networks positions Tennessee’s entrepreneurs to reach successful funding events and scale their companies.

Are you a startup interested in participating in the Mentor Networks?

Apply Now

Mentor Roles & Responsibilities

The program’s mentor pool consists of Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs), Domain Experts, and Panelists.

EIRs:

Are CEOs or C-level executives
Lead teams of mentors that guide companies through the Networks

Domain Experts:

Are current or former senior executives with expertise in specific areas (e.g., marketing, finance, regulatory, operations)
Participate in mentor teams and attend review panels

Panelists:

Participate as subject matter experts in 90-minute review panels (1-4 per quarter)
Critique company presentations and provide feedback on content and readiness

Are you an industry expert or company interested in becoming a mentor?

Apply Now