While the Small Business Resource Center is designed as a single point of entry, the support it offers is powered by a coalition of local, state and national organizations that together form Chattanooga’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Rather than duplicating services, the center brings these groups under one roof, making it easier for business owners to access specialized expertise without navigating a fragmented system.
Among the partners is the Tennessee Small Business Development Center, which provides one-on-one advising and technical assistance, and SCORE, a national network of volunteer mentors who work directly with entrepreneurs at all stages of development.
The State of Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development adds a statewide perspective, connecting local businesses to broader funding and growth initiatives.
Several Chattanooga-based organizations play a central role in the collaboration. CO.LAB and Launch Chattanooga both focus on startup development, offering programming and support tailored to early-stage companies.
The Enterprise Center, long a driver of the city’s innovation economy, contributes resources tied to technology, digital access and business growth.
The Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce brings its network of established businesses and economic development expertise, while the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s Max Fuller Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship connects student entrepreneurs and academic resources to the broader community.
Equity and access are also key components of the partnership. The Urban League and the Business Resource Collective work to ensure that historically underserved entrepreneurs have access to the tools and guidance needed to succeed.
Rounding out the group is Proof, a venture-focused organization that supports founders with capital access and business strategy.
Together, these partners offer a coordinated system of support – one designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are and help move them forward.