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We have deep roots in Nashville.
Our history goes back to 1983 when Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) submitted a proposal to Congress to accelerate job growth in economically disadvantaged areas in Nashville. The following year, TVA appointed the Growth Enterprises Nashville, Inc. board to oversee Phase II of the project, birthing the the Nashville Business Incubation Center (NBIC).
 
We have a successful 30-year track record.
We have been helping small business owners grow from acorns into mighty oaks for over thirty years. We take pride in being results-oriented and goal-driven.
 
We are led by a Tennessee State graduate.
This incubator is led by Angela Crane-Jones, a proud TSU graduate and award-winning business advisor.  She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree and Master of Arts degree. Additionally, a few of our clients are TSU graduates and their businesses have added jobs to the economy, employing TSU alum. We bleed Tennessee State blue! 
 
We have notable graduates. 
If you have ever visited the city’s office buildings, you will see them guarded by Archangel Protective Services, an NBIC graduate that added over 100 jobs after completing our hallmark Mighty Oak program. Maybe you’ve heard about the fresh, customized pizzas at Slim +  Husky’s or you have seen Nashville’s #1 food truck, The Grilled Cheeserie. These incredibly prosperous businesses allowed us to hold their dreams in our hands.
 
We strongly value inclusion and equity. 
At the Incubation Center, we believe that everyone deserves an opportunity to grow during the unprecedented economic rise in our city. We offer educational and expert-level offerings for small businesses, especially those owned by women, veterans, and ethnic minorities.
 
We have over eight phenomenal offerings to choose from.
Are you looking for help with securing work with governmental agencies? We have a program for that. Maybe you’re looking for a support system to help you support your brilliant business idea? We have a program for you! Take our Biz Quiz to see which program is best for you.
 
We have provide 360 degrees of support.
From human resources to legal help, you have your back! Many of our programs, such as the Entrepreneur in Residence program, offers an accountability partner with a holistic business approach. You will never be alone in your entrepreneurial journey with the Incubation Center. 
 
We are passionate about helping small businesses win federal contract awards.
We understand that women and minority business owners have been overlooked in the federal contracting process in the past, so we partner with organizations that are dedicated to solving this issue, such as the Metro Nashville Office of Women and Minority Business Assistance, and we offer programs, such as Elevate.
 
We are an industry-agnostic incubator.
Many incubators are zoned in on one speciality, such as technology or culinary. However, we have a powerful and diverse team of professionals to help you scale a sustainable business. 
 
We help create wealth in the community.
Our client companies have collectively added created over 450 new jobs and generated over $100 million in sales. We ensure that our regional economy is prosperous.
There are many more reasons to fall in love with the Incubation Center. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, discover all that the NBIC has to offer by scheduling a consultation with Angela Crane-Jones at Calendly. 

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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 is the Program Coordinator at NBIC. With a background as a tank storage broker, Octavia acted as a vital liaison between storage terminals and cargo owners, facilitating contracts for the transportation and storage of products. Prior to NBIC, she also worked as a chemical operator at a chemical company, further enhancing her expertise in the industry.

Joining NBIC in early 2022, Octavia initially served as an assistant to Angela before transitioning to her current position as a Program Coordinator. In this role, Octavia plays a crucial part in various projects, including MNAA and Elevate 615. She also provides invaluable support to the team, assisting with grants and streamlining processes to ensure efficient collaboration and coordination.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Octavia is extremely family-oriented and cherishes family outings and spending quality time with her loved ones. Octavia is also a dedicated DIY enthusiast and seeks to immerse herself in various projects.

Octavia embraces the opportunity to collaborate with the NBIC team, support Angela, and contribute to the company’s mission. Having witnessed the growth of businesses firsthand gives Octavia special insight into the entrepreneurial world and the hard work that goes into operating and expanding your business.

With her extensive background in the oil industry and her unwavering dedication to assisting others, Octavia continues to make a positive impact within NBIC, among her peers, and within the entrepreneurial community as a whole.