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How Digital Education is Helping Entrepreneurs Like You Upgrade Their Business Infrastructure

In today’s fast-moving economy, staying competitive means more than just working harder – it means working smarter. And for entrepreneurs in their 30s, 40s or 50s, sometimes life looks like juggling a full-time job, raising a family, and running the business on the side. But what if the key to your success was found at the click of a button or the stroke of a key? 

At the Nashville Business Incubation Center (NBIC), we’ve spent nearly four decades guiding entrepreneurs through the real-world challenges of building scalable businesses. Now, more than ever, the biggest threat to growth is falling behind in the digital-first world. 

 

Why Digital Transformation Can’t Wait 

Digital technology has completely reshaped how businesses operate – how they market, how they manage finances, how they serve customers, and how they plan for long-term success. If you’re still relying on old systems, paper trails, or manually tracking your business’s performance, you’re at a disadvantage. 

Today’s successful business owners are: 

  • Using cloud-based tools to automate invoicing, payments, and financial tracking 
  • Managing social media and email marketing campaigns with smart scheduling platforms 
  • Streamlining operations with digital CRMs, booking software, and AI-driven customer support 
  • Accessing real-time data to make informed decisions without guesswork 

This isn’t just about convenience, but rather about staying in the game for the long run. 

 

Bridging the Digital Divide: Why Mid-Career Entrepreneurs Must Adapt 

It’s no surprise that society is currently seeing a hesitation among mid-career business owners to fully adopt digital tools – not because they aren’t capable, but because they’ve built their business on relationships, experience, and grit. And while those values still matter, the playing field has changed. 

If you’re not convinced, here’s what that business upgrade looks like: 

  • Learning the language of digital business – Understanding the basics of search engine optimization, algorithms, and analytics 
  • Replacing outdated workflows – Moving from solely spreadsheets to systems that track and optimize work in real time 
  • Automating routine tasks – Letting artificial intelligence handle the repetitive work so you can focus on strategy and customer care 
  • Becoming data-driven – Learning to understand the language of the data to make better decisions based on numbers, not just instinct 

What once felt like a digital gap is now a defining and competitive edge if you’re willing to lean into it. 

 

Good News – You Don’t Need to Be a Tech Expert 

We’re not saying that you need to code your own website or build a custom app. However, you do need to understand how the right tools can remove bottlenecks, increase visibility, and boost profitability. 

The right digital education gives you the ability to: 

  • Spot inefficiencies and fix them before they cost you 
  • Understand where your money is going and how to optimize it 
  • Reach new customers without spending all day online 
  • Build a business that runs with or without your daily presence 

 

Your Digital Upgrade Starts Here with NBIC Programs 

At NBIC, our cohort-style programs are built to meet you exactly where you are on your business journey. Whether you’re still operating out of your kitchen table or ready to open a second location, we help you build the systems, strategies, and digital foundation you need to scale—without burning out. 

Our programs cover critical areas like: 

  • Marketing & Branding: Learn how to attract and retain customers online 
  • Financial Systems: Set up cloud-based bookkeeping and reporting for clarity and control 
  • Legal Readiness: Finding your ideal team, structure your business properly, and stay compliant 
  • Business Planning: Use data and digital tools to create a realistic and scalable growth roadmap 

This is not about starting over – it’s about upgrading what you’ve already built. You’ve already proven you have what it takes to start, so now it’s time to embrace the digital tools, systems, and education that will take your business from side hustle to sustainable enterprise. 

NBIC is here to help you cross that bridge with hands-on training, strategic support, and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs who are upgrading right alongside you. To learn more about our Programs, visit www.nbichub.org or if you’re ready to take the next step, then take our free assessment called The Biz Quiz to see which Program is best for you! 

TAKE OUR BIZ QUIZ
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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.