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Pick one session. Show up. Earn your certificate.

Free digital skills training for Davidson, Maury, Rutherford, Sumner, and Wilson counties. Seats are limited and held for people who commit.

No cost to attend. Online and in person options. More Future Ready sessions coming soon!

Browse the Schedule → Pick your session →
100% free 90 minutes to 2 hours 5 counties Certificate on completion
What Will You Learn?

Six areas of practical digital skill

Future Ready provides practical digital skills training designed to help individuals, professionals, and business owners confidently use technology in everyday life.

Artificial Intelligence & Productivity

Learn how AI tools can save time, improve workflows, and increase efficiency.

Digital Safety & Security

Protect yourself, your family, and your business online.

Online Visibility & Marketing

Strengthen your online presence through platforms, profiles, and digital tools.

Business & Customer Tools

Learn systems that help streamline operations and improve customer engagement.

Everyday Digital Skills

Build confidence using technology for communication, banking, and daily tasks.

Career & Professional Development

Use digital tools to strengthen your career, networking, and workplace effectiveness.

Step 1 · Choose your session

Choose the one session that matters most

One session per registration. Attendance is far stronger when someone commits to a single session than when they select several. You can add another once you are confirmed.
12Sep
Saturday11:00 AM – 12:30 PM CT
Virtual
Business & Customer Tools

Is Your Business Really Making Money?

Use AI to understand cash flow, pricing, profit margins, and make smarter financial decisions.

Virtual · Zoom
with Tim Daniel
15Sep
Tuesday11:00 AM – 1:00 PM CT
Virtual
Business & Customer Tools

Put AI to Work in Your Business

Use practical AI tools to save time, strengthen marketing, reach customers, and increase sales.

Virtual · Zoom
with Jen Renshaw
16Sep
Wednesday11:30 AM – 1:00 PM CT
Virtual
Leadership & Teams

Leading AI-Ready Teams

Lead teams through AI-driven change with greater clarity, trust, confidence, and accountability.

Virtual · Zoom
with Dawn Mason
0 sessions selected
Step 2 · Register free

Hold my seat

Seats are limited. Registration closes two hours before each session starts, and a certificate is issued to everyone who attends the full session.

Your session from Step 1 is selected below. Fill in your details once and you are set.

3 ways to engage

However you learn best, there is a way in

1

Future Ready Fest

Signature in-person events across the five-county area throughout the summer. Hands-on, multiple sessions in one place.

2

Weekly Online Sessions

Two-hour sessions held weekly online. A different topic each week, evening-friendly. The fastest way to build one skill.

3

County Pop-Ups

In-person sessions hosted by community partners in your county. The Future Ready content, delivered where you already are.

Before you register

What to expect from each session

A closer look at what you will do and what you will walk away with.

Before you register

Questions, answered

Is it really free?
Yes. Every Future Ready session is free, supported by a Digital Skills, Education, and Workforce grant through the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. Nothing to buy.
Is Your Business Really Making Money? · Sept 12 · Virtual, 11:00 AM–12:30 PM · Tim Daniel

You don't have to be an accountant to understand whether your business is financially healthy. In this practical workshop, learn how to use AI to make sense of your business numbers and answer important questions like: Am I charging enough? Which products or services are actually profitable? Where is my money going? And can my business afford to grow?

You'll learn how to use AI to:

  • Better understand your cash flow
  • Review pricing and profit margins
  • Explore what-if financial scenarios
  • Identify expenses and opportunities to improve profit
  • Turn financial information into clearer business decisions
  • Ask better questions about the financial health of your business

Bring your numbers, questions, or business scenario. Leave with practical AI prompts and a clearer way to make smarter financial decisions. No accounting or AI experience required.

Put AI to Work in Your Business · Sept 15 · Virtual, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM · Jen Renshaw

AI is everywhere, but how can you actually use it to improve your business? Join this practical virtual workshop designed for small business owners who want to move beyond the AI hype and start using AI for real business tasks.

You'll learn simple ways to use AI to save time, strengthen your marketing, better understand your customers, improve follow-up, and uncover new sales opportunities.

You'll learn how to use AI to:

  • Save time on repetitive business tasks
  • Create marketing content faster
  • Better understand and reach customers
  • Improve customer service and follow-up
  • Generate ideas for leads and sales
  • Get more done without adding more hours to your day

Bring a real business challenge. Leave with practical AI prompts, tools, and ideas you can start using immediately. No technical or AI experience required.

Leading AI-Ready Teams · Sept 16 · Virtual, 11:30 AM–1:00 PM · Dawn Mason

This workshop equips people leaders and business owners with people-first leadership practices to guide teams through AI adoption and evolving work. Participants learn how to recognize readiness barriers, build trust, address resistance, and create the conditions employees need to approach AI-related change with greater confidence.

Intended audience: people leaders and business owners.

By the end of this workshop you will be able to:

  • Connect AI adoption to a clear organizational and team purpose
  • Identify fear, uncertainty, and other barriers affecting team readiness
  • Lead constructive conversations about changing roles and workflows
  • Build AI confidence and fluency across teams
  • Determine where human judgment, empathy, and accountability must remain central
  • Model responsible AI use and thoughtful experimentation
Do I need to be a business owner?
No. Future Ready is built for working professionals, community members, and business owners alike.
How long is each session?
Session lengths vary, most run 90 minutes to two hours. Every September session is online, so check the schedule for the exact start time of the one you want.
What do I need to bring?
Just yourself and a computer if you have one. The sessions are hands-on, so your own device helps but is not required.

One session. One commitment. Real skills.

More Future Ready sessions coming soon. Register now and we will keep you posted on what is coming.

Register free →
TN Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development
All fests, workshops, and virtual sessions are free and are supported by Digital Skills, Education, and Workforce (DSEW) grant funds through the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD).
Quentin Beverly

Quentin Beverly brings a unique blend of strategic marketing and deep community dedication to his role as the Marketing and Development Growth Coordinator at the Nashville Business Incubation Center (NBIC).

Beyond his professional life, Quentin’s foundational drive is rooted in service and leadership, principles he actively lives out as a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Through the fraternity’s commitment to community uplift, advocacy, and service, Quentin has dedicated himself to empowering others, a passion that aligns perfectly with NBIC’s mission to foster and scale local entrepreneurial talent.

Quentin’s professional journey has been heavily anchored in the nonprofit and arts administration sectors, where he has long focused on building resources that drive social and cultural impact. During his time with arts nonprofits, he led multi-purpose advocacy campaigns, boosted individual giving, and designed targeted donor outreach initiatives using development and engagement tactics to maximize donor retention and
acquisition. He also brings experience in data-driven media buying that spans from e-commerce brands to live entertainment.

Armed with a Master of Arts in Arts Administration from Indiana University Bloomington and strong roots in both nonprofit development and media analytics, Quentin looks at business growth through a community-first lens. Whether he is leveraging modern marketing frameworks to help a local startup scale, bolstering donor engagement, or working alongside his Alpha brothers on community initiatives, he is energized by seeing the Nashville ecosystem thrive.

Donnie Swift

Donnie Swift serves as the Program and Outreach Coordinator for NBIC, where he is dedicated to building meaningful partnerships, expanding community engagement, and creating opportunities that positively impact individuals and families. Throughout his career, Donnie has been passionate about education and has helped thousands of students and parents navigate academic success, personal development, and access to valuable resources. 

His commitment to service has always extended beyond the classroom as he has consistently sought ways to strengthen communities through collaboration and advocacy. Donnie has guided students and their families through the college planning process, including college admissions, financial aid, and FAFSA completion. He has organized college readiness workshops and connected students with academic support programs that have helped families make informed decisions about postsecondary education. Recognizing the unique needs of multilingual communities, Donnie has also worked closely with families requiring translation and interpretation services, ensuring they could fully participate in school meetings, understand educational requirements, and access critical community resources with confidence. 

In his role at NBIC, Donnie is excited to leverage his experience, relationships, and passion for serving others to expand the organization’s reach and support its mission of creating lasting, positive change within the community. He enjoys working with community partners, developing innovative outreach initiatives, and helping individuals discover opportunities that improve their quality of life. 

Outside of work, Donnie enjoys spending time reading, working out, engaging with his community, and finding new ways to inspire and encourage others through service and leadership. 

Kat Marshall
Kat Marshall joined NBIC in May 2026 as Marketing & Digital Assets Specialist, where she contributes her expertise to content strategy, digital marketing, brand management, and visual storytelling efforts that amplify the organization’s mission of advancing economic opportunity and entrepreneurial success. Through her work, she helps elevate the stories of entrepreneurs, small businesses, and communities served by NBIC’s programs, creating meaningful connections that inspire engagement and impact.
 
With a professional background spanning entrepreneurship, entertainment, public relations, brand strategy, and digital marketing, Kat brings a unique blend of creativity and strategic insight to every project. She specializes in translating complex ideas into compelling narratives that strengthen brands, build trust, and inspire action.
 
In addition to her role at NBIC, Kat is the founder and CEO of Build a Village Creative, a brand strategy and digital marketing studio that partners with entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and purpose-driven organizations. Through her company, she helps clients develop authentic brands, clarify their messaging, strengthen their digital presence, and create strategic marketing campaigns that drive growth and engagement. Her expertise includes brand development, content creation, social media strategy, public relations, and community-centered marketing.
 
Known for uncovering the heart of a brand and transforming it into messaging that resonates, Kat approaches marketing as more than promotion, she sees it as a powerful tool for community building, collaboration, and economic empowerment. Whether supporting organizations, businesses, or entrepreneurs, she is passionate about helping others tell their stories, expand their impact, and grow with purpose and authenticity.
Sierra Ashburn

Sierra Henley Ashburn joined NBIC in December 2024 as a Special Projects Manager consultant. She now serves full-time as an Outreach Coordinator, focused on building community partnerships and supporting event and program execution. In this role, she works across NBIC’s Construction Consortium and the Metro Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) Emerging Contractors and Mentor Protégé programs. She also serves as the staff liaison for the NBIC Young Leaders Board.

Beyond NBIC, Sierra is the founder and lead operations strategist of Amplified Innovation, a fractional operations firm serving nonprofits and mission-driven service businesses. She partners with leaders and teams to translate impactful visions into clear, actionable systems, helping organizations thrive in their zone of genius by aligning internal infrastructure with core values.

Sierra is an active member of Nashville’s nonprofit community, a Young Leaders Council graduate, and currently serves on the board of From Your Father as Systems and Operations Lead.

She is a strong believer in NBIC’s approach of meeting entrepreneurs where they are; equipping them with the tools and support to grow, create community impact, and build a lasting legacy.

Patrick Walker-Reese

Patrick Walker-Reese, MPA is an established and celebrated speaker and educator. Patrick Walker-Reese, or Mr. Reese, as his students commonly refer to him as has dedicated his work to serve his own community. He has motivated and encouraged youth and adults alike to dare to dream and to strive for greatness every day.

Patrick Walker-Reese is the epitome of resilience. Directly translating in his teachings, his ability to make powerful connections and impacts on each individual who attends a workshop or speech he gives. He made it and is living the life of his dreams. This message is especially powerful to youth who are lacking ambition and guidance. Patrick attended Tennessee State University. Although school never came easy for Patrick, whose knack was always for speaking but not the traditional educational curriculum, he graduated from Tennessee State University with a History degree in 2010. His educational pursuits did not end there. He received his Masters from Tennessee State University in Public Administration in 2014.

In 2012 he formed ASPIRE LLC, an Educational Consulting Firm. Aspire specializes in highly interactive motivational presentations, workshops, curriculum, and literature. ASPIRE has worked with varied reputable organizations and companies such as The National Urban League, Caterpillar Financial, Metro Nashville Public Schools, YMCA, NYC Department of Youth and Community Development, Clemson University, University of DC. The list of who ASPIRE has worked with has continued to grow. Now including, 100 Black Men “100 Kings” program, Oasis Center, The Educate ME HBCU College Tour, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, Boys And Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee, and a host of professional athletes.

Patrick has authored two books on self-help and socio-emotional development. Patfacts Volume 1: From One Dreamer to Another and Patfacts Volume 2: More Than a Dream. The latter of which was self-published through his newest business venture Aspire Publishing. Designed to turn dreamers into published authors.

Victor Tyler

Victor Tyler serves as a Digital Asset Specialist at NBIC, where he manages, organizes, and creates digital media resources that support the organization’s storytelling. In this role, he ensures that NBIC’s growing online presence remains cohesive, engaging, and aligned with its brand identity. 
 
Before joining NBIC, Victor built a career in art direction and content production, leading campaigns that combined strategic storytelling with result-driven creative. His experience spans brand development, media production, and digital marketing.  
 
Victor is passionate about using creativity to bridge artistry with strategy to help ideas come to life. Outside of work, he enjoys drawing, running, and exploring new places to eat, often finding inspiration for his work in the world around him. 

Dr. Contrecia Tharpe

Dr. Contrecia “Dr. T” Tharpe joined NBIC in November 2025 as Marketing and Communications Manager, bringing more than 15 years of experience in brand strategy, marketing, and communications leadership. A visionary strategist known for her creativity and results-driven approach, she leads NBIC’s brand, storytelling, and communications efforts with a focus on amplifying the voices of entrepreneurs and positioning NBIC as a leader in inclusive business growth. 

Before joining NBIC, Dr. T built an impressive career spanning entrepreneurship, consulting, and organizational leadership. As Founder and Chief Brand Strategy Architect of FayeVaughn Creative, a full-service agency serving startups through Fortune 500 companies, she has helped organizations across industries craft powerful narratives, elevate visibility, and drive measurable results. 

Her expertise bridges creativity and strategy, combining data-driven marketing with authentic storytelling to strengthen brand trust and engagement. 

Beyond her role at NBIC, Dr. T serves as President of Nashville Cable, the region’s premier network for women in leadership. A sought-after advisor and speaker, she is passionate about helping others build brands that mean business, strengthen communities, and reflect the power of purpose. 

Dynamic, forward-thinking, and unapologetically authentic, Dr. T embodies NBIC’s mission to inspire innovation and empower entrepreneurs to grow, scale, and thrive. 

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Abigail DaSilva
Abigail DaSilva is the marketing coordinator at NBIC, channeling her passion and creativity to support the organization’s mission of leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs. A proud graduate of Tennessee State University, Abigail holds a degree in design, which fuels her artistic sensibilities and impeccable eye for aesthetics. Before joining NBIC, Abigail embarked on her own entrepreneurial journey alongside her brother, where she spearheaded the sales and marketing efforts of their own venture. This experience honed her skills in strategic promotion, customer engagement, and marketing media. Abigail has played a crucial role in the company, transforming their media marketing strategies, specifically towards a more video-driven approach. Recognizing the power of visual storytelling, she has created compelling content and innovative campaigns that have amplified NBIC’s reach and engagement, strengthening their online presence and impact. Outside of her professional endeavors, Abigail is an avid art buff, frequently visiting museums and exploring immersive experiences that combine technology and creativity. She also has a deep love for travel, shopping, and anything that allows her to utilize her creative mind. With her unwavering commitment and broad range of experience, Abigail is a valuable asset to NBIC. She remains eager to push boundaries, elevate engagement, and empower entrepreneurs through her exceptional marketing expertise.
Anne-Marie Tanner
Anne-Marie Tanner is the Programs Coordinator at NBIC. With a Master’s degree in strategic marketing from Midway University and a Bachelor’s degree in design from University of Kentucky, she brings a unique blend of business experience and creativity to her work. Prior to joining NBIC in March of 2023, Anne-Marie worked as a small business and startup consultant, where she gained valuable experience in guiding entrepreneurs through the challenges and opportunities of launching and growing their businesses. Her expertise in strategic planning and her ability to quickly grasp new concepts makes her a strong asset to the NBIC team. As the Programs Coordinator at NBIC, Anne-Marie manages multiple components, including Foundations, E-Myth, Framework, and Groundwork. Anne-Marie values collaboration and strives to align her work with the vision and expectations of her colleagues. Beyond her professional career, Anne-Marie has a wide range of hobbies and passions. She is an accomplished Olympic weight-lifter. Additionally, with her husband, she started a medical clinic in Martin, TN, a brewery and events center in Paris, TN, and an airbnb property. Their goal is not only to build successful businesses, but also to provide economic stability and job opportunities to as many people as possible. With her extensive background in business, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her commitment to personal growth, Anne-Marie Tanner is an extremely valuable asset to NBIC. Her diverse skill set and positive mindset make her a catalyst for success, both for herself and the new businesses she assists.
Saturnie Antoine
Saturnie Antoine has been a part of NBIC since November 2021, serving as the R.I.S.E. UP Program Manager. She holds a Bachelor’s degree and has obtained a professional certification in coaching skills. With a diverse background in corporate work spanning over 15 years, Saturnie has worked in various sectors. As the R.I.S.E. UP Program Manager, Saturnie oversees the entire program. Her responsibilities include structuring the curriculum, sourcing speakers, and organizing the launch campaign. Additionally, Saturnie provides personalized professional coaching to the program participants, offering guidance and support to help them scale their businesses to $1 million plus level. Since the commencement of the program in March 2023, under Saturnie’s leadership, R.I.S.E. UP has witnessed numerous accomplishments and successes. Additionally, the program’s focus on emotional intelligence has helped participants navigate internal challenges and overcome obstacles inhibiting their growth. Outside of work, Saturnie values personal time spent with her family and loved ones. Her true passion lies in her role as a professional coach, where she finds fulfillment in assisting women on their journey towards personal and professional growth. Saturnie’s commitment to her clients and her extensive experience, coupled with her excellent coaching skills, allows her to provide comprehensive support to program participants, enabling them to achieve their goals and reach new heights. Under Saturnie’s leadership, the R.I.S.E. UP Program continues to flourish and make a lasting impact on the lives of female entrepreneurs.
Leroy Cunningham
Leroy Cunningham currently occupies the role of Community and Capacity Building Manager at NBIC. He holds a major degree in Business Administration from Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin, along with minor degrees in Accounting and Economics. Leroy’s prior engagement with business development consulting brings great strength to the NBIC team. He has worked at three of the largest market capitalization companies in the world – Emerson Electric, General Electric, and Berkshire Hathaway. In his current role as the Community and Capacity Building Manager at NBIC, Leroy wears many hats. One of his primary objectives at NBIC is to increase the number of small minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses qualified to undertake contracts from prime contractors and government entities. By fostering relationships with community partners and engaging with prime contractors and government entities, Leroy works tirelessly to bridge the gap and provide opportunities for these businesses to flourish. Additionally, Leroy dedicates his time to consulting with business owners, providing them with valuable insights and guidance. By helping businesses at their current stage and empowering them to reach their goals, Leroy greatly contributes to the growth and success of NBIC’s clients. Outside of work, Leroy indulges in his love for reading, sports, and travel. With his vast knowledge, dedication, and passion for community empowerment, Leroy is committed to making a meaningful impact at NBIC. His wealth of certifications and global business experience lends a unique perspective and expertise to NBIC’s initiatives, which will undoubtedly drive the organization forward.
Octavia Wilson-Simmons

Octavia Wilson-Simmons brings more than 20 years of diverse industry experience to her role at NBIC, where she drives operational excellence, grant compliance, and technological innovation. She began her career in the oil and gas sector in 2000 as a Contract Analyst, where she developed expertise in contract negotiation, trading operations, and stakeholder management.

Over the course of her career, Octavia expanded her skills across account management, operational optimization, and project coordination, gaining cross-industry experience that includes consulting and healthcare. Her transition into consulting in 2021 further honed her ability to streamline logistics and operations for business growth, while her work in healthcare deepened her customer-first approach and adaptability.

Since joining NBIC in 2022, Octavia has been a driving force behind key operational improvements, data-driven decision-making, and program support initiatives that empower small businesses to scale. She leverages platforms such as Zendesk, Looker, and Salesforce to optimize workflows, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and enhance service delivery for entrepreneurs.

Passionate about creating efficient systems and sustainable impact, Octavia’s expertise in operations management, compliance, technology integration, and strategic support ensures NBIC’s entrepreneurs have the foundation needed for long-term success.