Education + Opportunity

The Patton Foundation supports and inspires idea generators to pursue entrepreneurship. In a rapidly changing economy, we believe supporting young entrepreneurs will increase economic growth in local communities.

Patton Foundation Entrepreneur Challenge

1. Confirm your school/organization has an upcoming competition.
2. Prepare a business idea to present to a panel of judges.
3. Submit your idea preview for a chance to become a finalist in your school or organization’s challenge.
- Submission Review: Our team will review all entries, selecting the top submissions to move forward to the final round.
- Presentation Day: Finalists will present their ideas live to a panel of local entrepreneurs.
- Presentation Format: 10-minute pitch, followed by a 5-minute Q&A with the judges.
- 1st Place: $5,000
- 2nd Place: $2,500
- 3rd Place: $1,000
- Choose a business idea that connects with your “why.”
- Attend our entrepreneur workshop to polish your proposal and build your presentation skills.
- Practice your pitch, anticipate questions, and come prepared with clear answers.

Apply for the Challenge

Upcoming Patton Foundation Events

Events

Jan 23

Entrepreneur Challenge with Campus Navigators

Mar 4

Entrepreneur Challenge at the University of Memphis

Apr 17

Entrepreneur Challenge at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Entrepreneur Workshop

Ready to take the stage with confidence? Our entrepreneur workshop videos are designed to help you refine your ideas, hone your pitch, and tackle those pre-competition nerves. Dive into practical tips from real-world entrepreneurs and gain the skills you need to make your ideas stand out. Don’t just prepare—get ready to captivate.

Start the Workshop

Message from Spencer Patton

I believe that entrepreneurship and small business leadership are core to the success of local and state economies. More than 50% of jobs created in the United States are created by small businesses.

Guidance from entrepreneurs and business leaders played a key role in shaping my career. The heart behind the Patton Foundation—and the Patton Foundation Entrepreneur Competition—is to pay it forward by offering education and competition opportunities to young entrepreneurs with big dreams.

The Foundation fosters a community of vibrant individuals, creating an environment conducive to collaboration, innovation, and shared learning.

Spencer Patton
Founder & President