Paradigm Challenge applications now being accepted
Applications are now available online for individuals interested in participating in the inaugural Paradigm Challenge that is focused on bringing new business opportunities to East Knoxville.
As described in this teknovation.biz article from late August, the initiative is being led by the Knoxville Area Urban League (KAUL) with support from a number of other community organizations. The geographic area includes Magnolia Avenue, Asheville Highway, Cherry Street, Five Points, and Burlington.
“It’s a place-based, industry specific ideation pitch competition that challenges entrepreneurs to solve business and economic growth challenges facing the East Knoxville business community,” Terrence (TC) Carter, KAUL’s Director of Economic and Business Development, said in that article.
Areas of focus are healthcare, retail and light manufacturing, and technology. KAUL is being assisted by the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, Knoxville Chamber and its Propel program, Tennessee Small Business Development Center, and Greater Knoxville SCORE chapter.
Deadline to submit applications is 5 p.m. EST on December 30. After that date, an initial group of 25 semi-finalists will be selected before 10 finalists are named for the pitch competition that will occur June 17, 2017. The winner will receive $10,000.
Applicants must be residents of Knox County and be proposing a new business.
The Paradigm Challenge was one of the winners of a grant under Launch Tennessee’s Creative Communities Initiative. The majority of the 13 recipients, announced in late July, were East Tennessee-based.
For more information, you can review the program flyer (paradigm-challenge-promotional-flyer) and frequently asked questions (paradigm-challenge-faqs).
