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Digital Skills for Entrepreneurs & Workforce (DSEW)

Practical Training. Real Tools. Measurable Growth.

The Digital Skills for Entrepreneurs & Workforce initiative, through NBIC and powered by The State of Tennessee’s Department of Economic and Community Development, is designed to equip business owners, founders, and professionals with practical digital tools that increase efficiency, improve decision-making, and strengthen long-term competitiveness.

Our FREE DSEW workshops focus on helping you leverage digital tools, including AI, automation, and data systems, in ways that directly impact your business operations.

If you are building, scaling, or stabilizing a business, these workshops are built for you.

Click a category to explore upcoming programs.

April Workshops | May Workshops | SCORE Classes

April Featured Workshops

April is packed. Two powerful sessions, two expert presenters, and one goal to give you the tools to grow.

On April 14th, Wendy Navarro cuts through the digital noise with Built to Grow, a practical session covering the five assets every small business must own and understand to grow with confidence.

Then Netta Dobbins takes the stage April 16th, 21st, and 23rd with AI in Marketing: The First 90 Days, a no-guesswork roadmap to putting AI to work in your business right now.

Register today and make April the month your business gets serious about growth.

April Workshop Dates

AI in Marketing

The First 90 Days

with Netta Dobbins Cunningham

Fireside chat featuring Maliyah Bass

 

Tuesday, April 21, 2026
5:00pm – 8:00pm

Cornerstone Hendersonville

117 Maple Row Blvd.

Hendersonville, TN 37075

Register today!

AI in Marketing

The First 90 Days

with Netta Dobbins Cunningham

 

 

Thursday, April 23, 2026
9:00am – 12:00pm

Ascend Federal Credit Union

1524 Williams Drive

Murfreesboro, TN 37129

Register today!

If your business is making money but you’re not fully confident in where it’s going, this is the training you need. NBIC is bringing practical, hands-on tech training to small business owners with Know Your Numbers, Grow Your Business: QuickBooks Made Simple, a FREE virtual program designed to help you stop guessing and start using your financial data to make smarter, more strategic decisions.


Led by Eric Ruffin, President and CEO of Ruffin Consulting, this two-part training breaks down QuickBooks in a clear, actionable, and immediately applicable way. You will learn how to accurately track income and expenses, understand what your reports are actually telling you, and use your numbers to guide how you price, plan, and grow your business.


This is not just bookkeeping. This is building the digital foundation your business needs to scale. Join us Tuesday, April 21 or Thursday, April 23 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm and take control of your numbers so your business can grow with intention.

Register today!

May Workshops

Most small businesses are not lacking effort. They are lacking clarity, structure, and the right tools. That is exactly what May at NBIC is designed to fix.

This month is not about sitting in another workshop and leaving with notes you never use. It is about walking away with real strategies, practical tools, and a clear understanding of what to do next in your business. We are bringing together expert-led sessions focused on what actually moves businesses forward right now.

Netta Dobbins leads AI in Marketing: The First 90 Days, a hands-on session that shows you how to start using artificial intelligence in your marketing immediately. No fluff. No confusion. Just clear steps you can apply right away.

Wendy Navarro presents Built to Grow, breaking down the five digital assets every small business needs to build a strong foundation, increase visibility, and grow with confidence.

Brooke Siler delivers AI 101, designed to help you understand how AI fits into your business and how to use it as a tool to save time, increase efficiency, and support smarter decision-making.

These sessions are happening across multiple locations, making it easier for you to plug in, learn, and take action.

If you are serious about growing your business, this is your moment to stop guessing and start building with intention.

Seats are limited. Register now and take the next step toward a stronger, smarter business.

AI in Marketing: The First 90 Days

with Netta Dobbins

 

Tuesday, May 5, 2026
11:00am – 2:00pm
First Farmers Bank

901 Nashville Highway

Columbia, TN

Built to Grow: The 5 Digital Assets Every Small Business Must Master

with Wendy Navarro

 

Wednesday, May 6, 2026
5:00pm – 8:00pm

Cornerstone Hendersonville
117 Maple Row Blvd.
Hendersonville, TN 37075

AI 101: Understanding How to Use AI for Your Small Business Growth
with Brooke Siler

Thursday, May 7, 2026
9:00am – 11:00am
Ascend Federal Credit Union
1524 Williams Drive
Murfreesboro, TN 37129

Register today
Register today
Register today

SCORE Workshops

Build Smarter with SCORE + NBIC Partner Workshops

No matter where you are in your business journey, there’s a SCORE workshop built for you. These free, expert-led sessions cover the fundamentals that matter most — from business planning and financial clarity to marketing strategy and digital presence — delivered in a practical, accessible format that turns learning into immediate action.

What makes SCORE even more powerful is the ecosystem it connects you to. Each session is intentionally aligned with NBIC’s programs and the DSEW training initiative, creating a clear, supported pathway from foundational skills to deeper engagement, resources, and growth opportunities. Whether you’re walking in as a first-time founder or a seasoned business owner looking to sharpen your edge, SCORE meets you where you are and moves you toward where you want to be.

Click HERE to view upcoming SCORE classes.

DSEW exists to close the digital readiness gap for entrepreneurs and workforce professionals across Middle Tennessee. Our focus is access, implementation, and long-term competitiveness. Programs are powered in partnership with the Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development.

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.