The Knoxville Entrepreneur Center (KEC) is excited to announce the seventh cohort of 100Knoxville founders. Five founders have been matched with an all-star team of mentors for a 5-week sprint that kicked off in January of 2023 to clarify strategy, make connections across the entrepreneurial community, improve operations, and, most importantly, increase sales. “100Knoxville helped me to better manage my operations. I learned how to identify and capitalize on opportunities and to connect with potential customers and partners. I learned real life business skills that are essential for success.” said Tonya Hairston, 100Knoxville alum and founder of Hairston’s Naturals, LLC.
Meet the founders and their mentors:
Hannah Humphrey – Net’s Nest Shelter , paired with mentor Dr. Angelique Adams
Hannah Humphrey started Net’s Nest Shelter with hopes of housing women and children who have been affected by domestic violence. She is using her platform to educate BIPOC communities on the facts of Domestic Violence, and how to become a safe advocate for victims. Personal experience sparked a passion to want to help her community, and bring awareness to this global epidemic.
Michael Ryan McGrew – RightWay Insurance, paired with mentor Bob Camp
After beginning his insurance career as a captive agent for one of the largest carriers in the country, Ryan decided to open RightWay Insurance to be able to provide clients with more options to better meet their needs.
Khasia Abdu – Dónde, paired with mentor David Harman
Khasia is the creator of Dónde, an afro-latina, women-owned company based in Knoxville, TN. Khasia’s focus and mission is on sustainable fashion and providing a space that makes “knowing where your clothing comes from” clear, hence the name, Dónde. Her desire is to provide pieces that are effortless, last season over season, and make the customer feel confident!
Tavis Bailey – Printing Image, paired with mentor Tommy Smith
After years of sales in signage and branding accounts, Tavis Bailey and his wife bought Printing Image. Tavis works with fair pricing and quick turnaround service for Printing Image’s clients to establish incredible customer relationships. He is always seeking the newest technologies to enhance the services to save their clients money. Tavis and his wife are excited to use their expertise and skills to serve an even broader audience through Printing Image.
Jackie Holloway – Canvas Can Do Miracles Art, paired with mentor Reico Hopewell
The Canvas Can Do Miracles is a nonprofit organization under the direction of Jackie Holloway. Her organization offers free art classes to children and adult artists, as well as individuals with substance abuse issues in underserved communities. Artists are encouraged to use their creative talents as therapy in the form of art enrichment activities.
Each company will also receive $5,000 towards growing their business thanks to our partner, Bank of America. “As part of our commitment to supporting communities and advancing career opportunities to address the racial equality gap, we have partnered with the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center and 100Knoxville to undertake important work that will strengthen minority-owned businesses, said Terry Cline, president, Bank of America Knoxville. “100 Knoxville’s mission ensures everyone has the opportunity to climb the career advancement ladder, and that the city is poised to become the most founder-friendly city in America.” said Terry Cline, president, Bank of America Knoxville.
To apply for the next cohort, or to support 100Knoxville, please visit 100Knoxville.com.
