The new initiative involves funding allocated in two ways: dollars to derisk inventions so that companies are willing to license the technologies, and mentorship and coaching to help researchers advance the ideas.

Chattanooga's Fenix24, a cyber disaster recovery company, has raised $5 million in funding, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory is teaming with the National Energy Technology Laboratory to jointly explore a range of technology innovations for the Appalachian region.

Other partners with the nation’s largest public power supplier are GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy, Ontario Power Generation, and Synthos Green Energy. TVA is preparing a construction permit application for a GE Hitachi BWRX-300 at the Clinch River Site near Oak Ridge.

“Gig City Goes Quantum" is a new initiative announced on Thursday to prepare for education, jobs and business opportunities in the emerging quantum technology sector. Up first is an effort that begins on April 14 as part of World Quantum Day with the goal of engaging people of all ages in more than 1,000 quantum learning activities by May 31.

Prizes were awarded to three East Tennessee start-ups during the 2023 Ballard Innovation Award Pitch Competition Tuesday.

Other notables include an announcement from the Atlanta Hawks about a new $50 million early-stage venture fund, and South Carolina holding a month-long celebration of innovation.

Texas-based non-profit Lemonade Day is focused on helping "prepare youth for life through fun, proactive, and experiential programs infused with life skills, character education, and entrepreneurship."

Five finalists, five pitches, one grand prize winner.