Applications are due November 29, 2023 for the class beginning in March 2024.

Brandon is the Managing Director of the Techstars Industries of the Future Accelerator, run in partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Tennessee Valley Authority, and the University of Tennessee.

01. What are you looking for in startups for the Industries of the Future accelerator?

We’re looking for startups that want to transform the future of their industries. Knoxville leads the world in a lot of different industries including supercomputing, public power, nuclear security and safety, homebuilding, travel centers, lifestyle media, theaters, recreational watercraft building, pet products, jewelry, advanced manufacturing, cleantech, and the most visited national park in the country. What’s next? That’s up to you. We’re looking for startups that want to transform the future of their industry. And we’re looking for founders like you with the energy to make it happen.

02. What are some of the biggest learnings from your career and entrepreneurial journey that you bring to being a Techstars MD? 

It’s a roller coaster. Enjoy the ride! You’ll get a rush of adrenaline. You’ll climb to new highs, and you’ll also experience new lows. You’ll get thrown for the occasional loop. You’ll whoop and scream. In the end, you’ll smile and laugh and you’ll have a great story to share about your startup adventure.

03. What is your favorite thing about the Knoxville startup scene?

Knoxville has a great combination of founders, accelerators, mentors, investors, events, organizations, and programs all committed to helping founders launch and grow their startups. As a former collegiate rower, I can attest to the power of everybody rowing in unison. The city and the region are committed to founders.

04. What do our partners Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Tennessee Valley Authority, and the University of Tennessee bring to the accelerator?

World-class researchers and innovators. Unmatched facilities and equipment. And the experience of changing the world: Oak Ridge National Laboratory as the Secret City behind the Manhattan Project. Tennessee Valley Authority as the organization that brought electricity to the seven-state area of the Tennessee River Valley. University of Tennessee as the first land-grant institution of higher education designated by the State of Tennessee. It’s in their DNA to continuously invest in the next generation of world changers.

05. Why are ultras important to you?

I like ultracycling and ultrarunning events. I just did the Natchez Trace 444 ultracycling event from Nashville to Natchez in 26 hours and 25 minutes and had a great experience. I see a lot of similarities between racing ultras and building startups. They’re hard. You train a lot to prepare. You learn to adapt to the conditions on race day. You stay focused on your goal. Most importantly, you keep going.

Read More