BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Teknovation.biz - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.teknovation.biz
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Teknovation.biz
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/New_York
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20250309T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20251102T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20260308T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20261101T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20270314T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20271107T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T103000
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260407T130433Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T130433Z
UID:94259-1777366800-1777372200@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:Unlocking Entrepreneurship: A Workshop on Franchising\, Funding\, and Fit
DESCRIPTION:Thinking about starting a business but daunted by the idea of building from scratch? Or perhaps you’re a current business owner looking to diversify your portfolio or stack additional revenue streams? This interactive workshop breaks down the franchise model and helps you determine if investing in a proven system is a better fit for your goals than trying to launch a traditional startup. \nWe’ll start by exploring the realities of franchising beyond the fast-food stereotypes—covering funding\, industry types\, and business models. Then\, we will transition into a hands-on workshop where you will take an entrepreneurial assessment to identify your unique business and leadership profile\, with a discussion around how the results point to the types of businesses where you would thrive. \nWhat to Bring: \n\nA laptop or tablet (Required to take the assessment during the session)\nAn open mind about business models and industries that you may never have considered before!\n\nYou’ll Learn How To: \n\nCompare the pros and cons of “DIY” entrepreneurship vs. the Franchise model\nEvaluate the different types of franchise industries\, including which ones are AI- and recession-resistant\nNavigate funding options and investment requirements\nInterpret your personal business profile from the entrepreneurial assessment\nIdentify which business environments match your specific skills\, personality\, values\, and work style\n\nWho Should Attend? \n\nEntrepreneurial-minded individuals who want to start a business but aren’t sure where to begin\nInvestors who want to diversify their existing portfolio with a scalable business\nCorporate types who are tired of the rat race and want to take control over their time and income\nIndividuals who have recently been laid off and want to explore alternatives to another job\nCareer transitioners who are eager to find something meaningful in their next chapter of business\n\nMeet the Speaker:  \n \nAbout Brett: \nBrett started his first business while in graduate school with the goal of being financially independent by the time he started a family. He succeeded\, growing that business to seven figures in annual sales and generating a passive income stream that freed him up to launch a cutting edge business in the EdTech space in 2010. Coming out of Corporate America to achieve success in different types of businesses across varying industries\, Brett understands the needs of a diverse clientele and uses his skills to help match them with the perfect franchise for leaving a lasting legacy. Brett has a MA (International Finance) from the University of Denver and a BA (Public Policy) from Duke University. He lives on a small farm in east Tennessee with his wife\, four kids\, dog\, cat\, horses\, and chickens. \nAbout Legacy Franchise Solutions:\nLegacy Franchise Solutions is a full-service franchise consulting firm committed to empowering corporate refugees and would-be entrepreneurs find their next right thing. We believe that business ownership is the most viable way to leave a lasting legacy for your family and loved ones\, and we relish the opportunity to come alongside our clients and help them find businesses where they will thrive\, coaching them through every step of the franchise award process. Our commitment is to help you achieve Freedom today\, Wealth tomorrow\, and Legacy forever! \nWhether you are looking to start your first business or add to your empire\, this workshop is relevant for all experience levels. \nWalk away with a clear understanding of your entrepreneurial profile and a roadmap for your next business move. \nThe KEC Office will open at 8:30 AM with a light breakfast provided. The workshop will start promptly at 9 AM. Spots are limited\, so please RSVP today! \n\n\n\nLocation\nKnoxville Entrepreneur Center\, 37902
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/unlocking-entrepreneurship-a-workshop-on-franchising-funding-and-fit/
LOCATION:Knoxville Entrepreneur Center\, 17 Market Square
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/fcqicnaususdnzey4qn1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T100000
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260414T152746Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T152746Z
UID:94417-1777451400-1777456800@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:Scaling Apprenticeships to Meet Regional Workforce Needs
DESCRIPTION:Part of National Apprenticeship Week \n\n\n\n\nJoin the Chamber for an engaging discussion on how Registered Apprenticeship programs are fueling economic growth and building a highly skilled workforce in our region. This event brings together leaders from CGI\, the U.S. Department of Labor\, and local experts from TVA\, UT Medical Center\, Pellissippi State Community College\, and Messer Construction to highlight the successes and impact of apprenticeships across industries. \nAttendees will learn how these programs: \n\nEquip workers with in-demand skills for high-growth industries\nCreate clear career pathways for job seekers\nStrengthen the regional economy by meeting workforce needs\n\nThe Chamber will also share how expanding apprenticeship opportunities directly supports our 2030 Protocol\, a long-term strategy to drive economic growth and increase prosperity across the region. \nWhether you’re an employer\, educator\, policymaker\, or career seeker\, this session will provide insights and practical examples of how apprenticeships can transform our workforce and community. \nBreakfast will be served. \n*We validate parking in Market Square Garage.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/scaling-apprenticeships-to-meet-regional-workforce-needs/
LOCATION:Knoxville Chamber\, 17 Market Square\, Knoxville
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-1-1.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T160000
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260427T133649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T133649Z
UID:94768-1777474800-1777478400@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:Unlocking Workforce Funding & Employer Support in TN
DESCRIPTION:Join us on April 29 at 3 p.m. at the Blount Partnership as representatives from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and the East Tennessee Local Workforce Development Board hold a conversation on financial incentives\, grants\, and workforce programs available to support employers.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/unlocking-workforce-funding-employer-support-in-tn/
LOCATION:Blount Partnership
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blount-Partnership-LONG.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260502
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260503
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260427T133103Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T133103Z
UID:94762-1777680000-1777766399@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:3rd Annual KAULed to Lead - Young Professionals Conference
DESCRIPTION:On Saturday\, May 2\, 2026\, we’re bringing together 200+ young professionals\, students\, entrepreneurs\, and community leaders for a powerful one-day conference at the University of Tennessee Conference Center attendees will experience a full day of programming built to help them grow\, connect\, and lead with purpose.\n\n\n\nWhat’s waiting for you inside: \n\nKeynote Speakers — hear from leaders who’ve done it and are doing it\nSpeed Networking Sessions — make meaningful connections fast\nWorkshops & Breakout Sessions — hands-on learning you can apply immediately\nPanel Discussions — real conversations about real career paths\nLeadership Roundtables — sit at the table with decision-makers in your community\n\nFor High School Students — Free Admission We believe leadership starts early. That’s why students have their own dedicated track\, including mock interview sessions and custom breakout sessions designed to meet them exactly where they are\, and prepare them for where they’re going. \nTopics We’ll Cover: AI & Other Tools and Recourses | Mindset & Mental Health | Professional Development | Entrepreneurship & more \n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Knoxville Area Urban League Young Professionals (KAULYP) are back for the 3rd Annual KAULed to Lead Conference. \n \nIn 2025\, we talked about the “Power Pivot.” In 2026\, we’re activating that power by Leading Where We Stand because leadership doesn’t require a title\, permission\, or position. This one-day intensive equips young professionals with the social capital\, mental resilience\, and technical skills to lead from wherever they are\, strengthening their communities and influencing Knoxville’s evolving economy. \n \nYour donation helps us provide: \n\nWorld-Class Keynote Speakers & Local Industry Facilitators\nAccess to thought leaders who inspire innovation\, leadership\, and community impact.\nMental Health Resources for the “Grind” Culture\nTools and sessions that promote balance\, resilience\, and sustainable success.\nMentorship for Emerging Leaders\nOne-on-one and group mentorship opportunities that foster growth and accountability.\nSpeed Networking Breakout Sessions\nDynamic\, fast-paced networking that builds meaningful professional connections.\n\n\nDorm & Students College Prep\nLaptops\, Schools Supplies\, Dorm Supplies\, Scholarship Prep\, etc.\n\nDon’t just watch leadership happen. Fund it.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/3rd-annual-kauled-to-lead-young-professionals-conference/
LOCATION:600 Henley Street\, Knoxville\, TN 37902
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/KAUL-building-knoxville-area-urban-league-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260505T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260505T193000
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260420T201915Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T202007Z
UID:94582-1778002200-1778009400@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:KEC Mentor Network Mingle
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Tuesday\, May 5th for a KEC Mentor Network Mingle at Ricky’s Bar!  \nWe’re bringing together our KEC Mentors and founders that are actively participating in or interested in getting connected to the KEC Mentor Network. This is the perfect opportunity to connect and network with other founders\, ask our KEC Mentors questions\, and find out more information about resources and programs that KEC offers. \nWe hope to see you there! \nAbout Ricky’s: \nRicky’s is a new bar brought to you by the owners of Tern Club and Fly By Night. Located at 1520 Washington Avenue\, Ricky’s has plenty of parking\, and a food truck out back. \nRegister now.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/kec-mentor-network-mingle/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/hbryzfna7ttgzyveigtj.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260508T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260508T083000
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260427T183505Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T183505Z
UID:94786-1778225400-1778229000@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:Knoxville Chamber Capitol Connections - Spring 2026
DESCRIPTION:Join us for Capitol Connections with Tennessee General Assembly Representatives. \n\n\n\n\nLearn what’s happening at the Tennessee General Assembly during a discussion with our local State Senators. They will share their priorities for 2026 and current business issues within our community. \n*Light breakfast and refreshments will be served.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/knoxville-chamber-capitol-connections-spring-2026/
LOCATION:Knoxville Chamber\, 17 Market Square\, Knoxville
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Capital-Connections.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260512
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260514
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260319T201101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T201101Z
UID:93640-1778544000-1778716799@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development WorkSource Summit
DESCRIPTION:The Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development is hosting the inaugural WorkSource Summit\, a new statewide gathering of the leaders shaping Tennessee’s workforce and economy. \nThis no-cost to register\, two-day conference brings together employers\, educators\, workforce professionals\, policymakers\, and economic development leaders around a shared goal: strengthening a talent ecosystem that meets industry needs. Attendees will gain insights into apprenticeships\, micro-credentials\, Workforce Pell\, and innovative work-based learning opportunities advancing across Tennessee\, along with proven strategies that keep our state nationally competitive.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/tennessee-department-of-labor-workforce-development-worksource-summit/
LOCATION:Sonesta Nashville Airport
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot-2026-03-19-at-4.10.39-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260513
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260514
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260407T131237Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T131237Z
UID:94264-1778630400-1778716799@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:Innovation Night at the Park
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday\, May 13 | Covenant Health Park | Knoxville\, Tennessee \nJoin founders\, innovators\, investors\, and the wider Knoxville community for an afternoon and evening celebrating innovation. \n12:00-2:00 PM\nInvestor Pitch: $100K Opportunity \nJoin us for lunch in the Clubhouse and watch top founders pitch their startups. Selected founders will have 3 minutes to pitch to local and regional investors and a chance to receive a $100\,000 investment from Market Square Ventures. \n2:00-4:00 PM\nLEEP Demo Day 2026 \nExperience breakthrough technologies from startups in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Lab-Embedded Entrepreneurship Program (LEEP). \nFeaturing startups from: \n\n\nChain Reaction Innovations at Argonne National Laboratory (Illinois) \n\n\nCyclotron Road at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (California) \n\n\nInnovation Crossroads at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (Tennessee) \n\n\nWest Gate at National Laboratory of the Rockies (Colorado) \n\n\nMeet the founders building the next generation of energy and advanced technology companies. \n4:00-5:30 PM\nCoworking + Networking at 121 Tech Hub \nFounders\, investors\, and operators are invited to continue conversations and collaboration at 121 Tech Hub\, located block from the stadium at 121 E. Jackson. Drop in\, connect\, and work alongside fellow innovators. Coworking at 121 Tech Hub will also be available all day for founders and investors attending the event. \n5:30-7:00 PM\nInnovation Showcase on the Concourse \nGates open at 5:30pm! Explore the latest technologies from startups and innovative companies. \n\n\nLive startup demonstrations \n\n\nFounder meet-and-greets \n\n\nEmerging technology displays \n\n\nMeet the people building the future of energy\, AI\, mobility\, advanced manufacturing\, and more. \n7:00-9:00 PM\nOne Knoxville SC game ⚽️ \nWatch the national champion One Knoxville SC soccer team take on Union Omaha at Covenant Health Park\, which was named the best ballpark in the country. Get your special discount group rate tickets. \nBefore the game\, celebrate Knoxville’s culture of innovation on the Jumbotron. \nAt halftime\, recognize founders and innovators from the day’s event on the field. \nWhy This Event Matters\nKnoxville brings together entrepreneurial ambition\, national laboratory research\, and university talent. \nInnovation Night welcomes: \n\n\nLocal and regional founders \n\n\nVenture investors \n\n\nCorporate innovators \n\n\nNational lab startups \n\n\nStudents \n\n\nThe wider community! \n\n\nAll in one place to celebrate the future being built here. \nBrought to you by\n121 Tech Hub \nInnovation Crossroads at Oak Ridge National Lab \nLaunchTN \nMarket Square Ventures \nOne Knoxville SC \nPYA Accountants & Advisors
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/innovation-night-at-the-park/
LOCATION:Covenant Health Park
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/83191906007-dji-0301-fv-1.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260519
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260520
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260326T134759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T134759Z
UID:93897-1779148800-1779235199@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:From Lab to Market: Accelerating AI Innovation
DESCRIPTION:Please join us for a statewide event designed to accelerate the transition of artificial intelligence research into real-world deployment\, commercialization\, and job creation across Tennessee.  Hosted by AI Tennessee’s Industry Innovation Consortium\, AI TechX\, and supported by Launch TN’s Tennessee Technology Advancement Consortium (TTAC)\, the convening will bring together industry leaders\, startups\, faculty researchers\, government\, and other relevant stakeholders to align applied AI Innovation with market and societal needs.  The event will feature curated programming focused on applied AI use cases\, research-to-commercialization pathways\, startup and talent showcases\, and facilitated conversations around industry-academic collaboration.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/from-lab-to-market-accelerating-ai-innovation/
LOCATION:Ashraf Islam Engineering Building\, 200 West 10th Street\, Cookeville\, TN\, 38501\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/TTU-Ashraf-Islam-Web-3-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260521T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260521T100000
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260427T133439Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T133439Z
UID:94764-1779354000-1779357600@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:How to Start a Business in Blount County
DESCRIPTION:Thu\, May 21 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM\n\n\n\n Blount Partnership \nDownstairs Boardroom\n\nTopic: Start-up Assistance\n\nAre you interested in starting a business in Alcoa\, Maryville\, Townsend or any area located in Blount County? \nThis in person course is designed to provide an overview of what the first steps of starting a business in Blount County would be. Our center director will discuss the different forms of business organizations\, tax requirements\, business licenses\, and financing options. \nFor a deeper dive into your specific business startup idea or interest\, you will have an opportunity to schedule an appointment for one-on-one consulting after attending this event. \n\nSpeaker(s): Gregg Bostick – Director at the Knoxville SBDC \nCo-Sponsor(s): Blount Partnership \nFor event related questions\, please reach out to Samantha Fox: sfox@tsbdc.org \nFee: No Cost
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/how-to-start-a-business-in-blount-county/
LOCATION:Blount Partnership
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/TSBDC_Hero-copy.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260521T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260521T180000
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260302T183038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T183038Z
UID:93092-1779368400-1779386400@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:Nashville Entrepreneur Day: Spring 2026
DESCRIPTION:Last year\, 1000+ investors\, advisors\, and business leaders showed up to Nashville Entrepreneur Day. They didn’t come for inspiration. They came to meet companies with actual traction. Don’t miss your chance.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/nashville-entrepreneur-day-spring-2026/
LOCATION:Geodis Park\, 501 Benton Avenue\, Nashville\, 37203
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/KTECH-500-x-500-px-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260611T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260611T190000
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260415T145112Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T145112Z
UID:94448-1781197200-1781204400@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:Shrimp Boil
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening of Peelin’ Eatin’ & Politickin’ at Shrimp Boil 2026! \nThis business climate program will feature great food and the opportunity for business community representatives to meet with local elected officials and others from across the state of Tennessee who have been invited to attend. \nTwo ticket options are available: individual tickets at standing cocktail tables\, or table purchases for a sit-down experience. \nReserved tables include one table of ten (10)\, table sign displaying your logo\, two drink tickets per guest + bucket of bottled beer\, and a southern country boil buffet. \nParking will be available onsite. \nPlease email events@knoxvillechamber.com for invoice requests.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/shrimp-boil/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-2.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260624
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260627
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260302T183345Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T183345Z
UID:93094-1782259200-1782518399@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:Sloss.Tech Conference in Birmingham\, AL
DESCRIPTION:Sloss Tech is the Southeast’s premier annual technology and innovation conference held in downtown Birmingham\, Alabama\, focusing on fostering\, connecting\, and showcasing the region’s growing tech scene. Founded in 2015\, the three-day event features expert speakers\, breakout sessions\, and a major startup pitch competition with significant funding.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/sloss-tech-conference-in-birmingham-al/
LOCATION:Downtown Birmingham\, Alabama
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261019T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261019T220000
DTSTAMP:20260427T151016
CREATED:20260412T130037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260412T130037Z
UID:94360-1792431000-1792447200@www.teknovation.biz
SUMMARY:2026 NEXT Awards + Entrepreneurs’ Hall of Fame\, Presented by Amazon
DESCRIPTION:NEXT Awards and Entrepreneurs’ Hall of Fame is entrepreneurship’s biggest night to honor the up and comers\, the game-changers and those that have left a legacy in their wake.
URL:https://www.teknovation.biz/event/2026-next-awards-entrepreneurs-hall-of-fame-presented-by-amazon/
LOCATION:Schermerhorn Symphony Center
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.teknovation.biz/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NEXT-Awards-2024-LONG-.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR