“Shark Tank”-Style Grant Competitions Slated for Nashville State, MTSU Students
Patton Foundation Announces Future Patton Entrepreneurship Grant Challenges
BRENTWOOD, TENN. – The Patton Foundation is announcing plans for Patton Entrepreneurship Grant (PEG) Challenges – a “Shark Tank”-style competition for Tennessee students – at Nashville State Community College and Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) in 2024. The news comes after the foundation awarded $8,500 to student entrepreneurs at Austin Peay State University in October 2023.
Launched by Tennessee native and entrepreneur Spencer Patton, the Patton Foundation aims to provide Tennessee’s young entrepreneurs with educational and competitive opportunities. Patton is the founder of multiple companies in the logistics space, including Patton Logistics, Route Consultant and Hello Truck Lease. In under 10 years, he built his business from $0 to greater than $100 million.
Nashville State’s PEG Challenge will be held virtually and is open to all AA/AS Tennessee Transfer Pathway Business Majors and all AAS Business Majors. It kicks off with a PEG Keynote by Patton on Jan. 24 from 6:00-7:00 p.m. The competition will be held on March 14 from 6:00-7:30 p.m.
MTSU’s PEG Challenge will be open to the university’s New Venture Creation Class. The PEG Keynote will be held in the Business & Aerospace Building on Jan. 29 from 12:40-2:05 p.m. The competition is slated for April 22 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at the Miller Education Center.
"We're thrilled to collaborate with Nashville State Community College and Middle Tennessee State University for these upcoming PEG Challenges,” said Patton. “By investing in young entrepreneurs in our state, I believe two things happen: We can motivate and guide students as they embark on their own entrepreneurial adventures, and by doing so, we can increase economic growth in our local communities long term.”
As part of PEG Challenges, participating students complete a 10-lesson virtual PEG Workshop featuring insights from fellow entrepreneurs to help them hone their business ideas and pitches. On competition day, each participant receives 10 minutes to present a business idea, followed by five minutes of Q&A with a panel of judges. Ultimately, three grants will be awarded: $5,000 for First Prize, $2,500 for Second Prize and $1,000 for Third Prize.
More PEG Challenges are expected to be announced at high schools and universities throughout the state. To submit an interest form or learn more about The Patton Foundation and upcoming PEG Challenges, visit spencerpattonfoundation.org.
About The Patton Foundation
The Patton Foundation serves as a dynamic springboard for aspiring entrepreneurs who are eager to propel their ideas to new heights. Functioning as a catalyst for growth, the Foundation provides invaluable support and resources to these budding visionaries. From offering financial assistance via grants to facilitating coaching and mentorship programs, the Patton Foundation stands as a steadfast pillar of guidance and empowerment.
Contact: Miriam Cresswell
Email: miriam@sheridanpr.com
Phone: (662) 809-9358
