The Clarksville-Montgomery County Industrial Development Board (IDB) is proud to highlight a key initiative advancing equitable economic development in our region with an investment in Hispanic entrepreneurship. Through collaborative funding efforts with TN Placemakers, Google, and Academia de Hispanos Emprendedores, we are fostering a diverse and resilient local workforce.
Building opportunity
Academia de Hispanos Emprendedores is leading the way in preparing Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs to thrive. With a clear vision for business education and empowerment, the organization has established a comprehensive program offering practical courses in Marketing, Accounting, Public Speaking, and Leadership—skills essential for business success.
In 2024, the initiative received a $22,000 grant from TN Placemakers, with a local match of $2,444, to launch its first round of classes. That cohort celebrated graduation on Oct. 4, 2024, with 15 students graduates. The impact has been immediate: three graduates have already joined local chambers of commerce, signaling strong integration into the broader business community.
Scaling access with strategic support
To build on that early success, Google awarded a $50,000 grant to support the acquisition of computers and infrastructure needed to equip two full classrooms. This tech-forward investment ensures students have hands-on experience and tools to modernize their business practices from day one.
Further momentum came with a second $50,000 grant from TN Placemakers, including a $5,555 match, to support a second round of training. This phase will serve 40 students across two cohorts, expanding both reach and depth. In addition to foundational classes, new coursework will include Business Insurance and Competition Management, two essential areas for business sustainability.
Fostering mentorship, community
A standout feature of this next phase is a mentorship program pairing current students with graduates from previous cohorts. This peer-led support fosters a culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing—strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem and reinforcing long-term success.
The IDB recognizes that inclusive economic development is essential. Hispanic entrepreneurs represent a rapidly growing segment of our local business landscape. By removing language and resource barriers, this program opens doors for economic mobility and innovation, creating ripple effects that benefit the entire region.
We are committed to continuing these kinds of strategic investments. With partners like TN Placemakers, Google, and community-focused organizations such as Academia de Hispanos Emprendedores.