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Author: NBIC

For 35+ years, the Nashville Business Incubation Center takes a personalized approach to helping women-owned, minority-owned and veteran-owned entrepreneurs scale a sustainable business - growing businesses from tiny acorns to mighty oaks.

Protecting What Matters Most: Meet Ken Thomas, ArchAngel Protective Services

Ken Thomas ArchAngel Protective Services Nashville Farmers Market

Entering a market chock-full of competitors may have deterred some. Still, the founders of ArchAngel Protective Services knew that, unlike others, building a security company that paid attention to detail, not just billable hours, would prevail. Getting its start in 2009 as a part-time security training company, a year later, it became a full-service security […]

From Business Owner To Small Business Advocate: Nashville Business Incubation Center’s Angela Crane Jones Is Living Her Truth

Building sustainable businesses has been the singular focus of the Nashville Business Incubation Center since it opened its doors 35 years ago. NBIC has been the launching pad of several successful minority and women-owned businesses such as Slim & Husky’s and The Grilled Cheeserie. The program’s foundation is built on three tenants: business sustainability, capacity […]

Breaking Conventions: Autumn “Ace” Copeland Earns More By Charging Clients Less

Driven by her passion for helping others, Autumn “Ace” Copeland first launched Threeye Creative (Now known as Quartz and Clay) to “crack the code” of traditional business models. Unlike other website design agencies, Threeye Creative specialized in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for custom builds, not templates, giving them a clear advantage over overpriced cookie-cutter agencies. […]

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.

Ashley Cook
Ashley Cook serves as Chief of Staff at NBIC, partnering closely with the CEO to strengthen execution, operational systems, and organizational effectiveness during a period of continued growth and stabilization.

With more than 15 years of experience supporting executive leadership across nonprofit, healthcare, civic engagement, and advocacy organizations, Ashley translates strategy into action by clarifying decision-making, strengthening accountability, and building sustainable workflows. Her approach helps teams operate with confidence and consistency—without unnecessary approval bottlenecks.

Known for calm, high-trust leadership and practical problem-solving, Ashley brings a strong understanding of how culture, decision confidence, and clear guardrails shape performance—especially in growing organizations navigating complexity.

Ashley is also a Howard University scholar, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while pursuing advanced study in human development to strengthen the people-centered foundations of effective organizational systems. She is committed to helping mission-driven organizations deliver measurable, sustainable impact.
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. 

Kevin Love

Kevin Love is a passionate ecosystem builder and strategic program leader with over a decade of experience in community development, workforce activation, and public-private partnerships. In his role as Senior Program Manager at (NBIC), Kevin leads initiatives that drive inclusive economic growth, regional expansion, and sustainable support systems for entrepreneurs across Middle Tennessee and beyond. 

Prior to joining NBIC, Kevin held senior leadership roles in Chattanooga, where he launched workforce development programs and digital equity initiatives that served thousands across the region. His work focused on engaging underrepresented communities, supporting diverse founders, and creating new pipelines for innovation and employment. Kevin has also collaborated with city governments, higher education institutions, and national networks to deliver measurable impact through strategic programming and relationship building. 

A proud graduate of Leadership Chattanooga, Forbes under 30 and Chatter’s 20 Under 40, Kevin brings a deep commitment to service and a reputation for thoughtful execution. His leadership style blends creativity, collaboration, and a relentless focus on outcomes. Kevin is also an advocate for equitable access to resources, and he continues to build bridges across public, private, and nonprofit sectors to ensure lasting opportunities for all. 

Originally from Tennessee, Kevin is now spearheading NBIC’s regional relationship strategy, reconnecting with partners in Huntsville, Birmingham, and Louisville to expand the center’s reach and impact. He’s thrilled to be part of a mission-driven team at NBIC and looks forward to helping entrepreneurs 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.