CMCSS opens Founders Inc. to help students turn ideas into businesses | PHOTOS
The Clarksville-Montgomery County School System recently launched Founders Inc., a new entrepreneurship program housed at the historic Burt Innovation Center. This initiative provides local high school juniors and seniors with the tools to develop business ideas, build prototypes, and pitch concepts to investors. The program occupies a renovated facility that honors the legacy of Dr. Robert T. Burt, a physician and advocate for education who founded the area's first hospital.
Students in the two-year program progress from an incubator phase in their junior year to an accelerator phase during their senior year. The curriculum focuses on identifying problems, validating business concepts, marketing, and operational management. Participants have access to professional-grade equipment, including woodworking tools, media production studios, and apparel design stations to bring their ideas to fruition.
Funding for the project comes from an $11 million Tennessee Innovative School Models grant, which also supported various technical labs across the district. There is no cost for students to attend, and the school system provides transportation. By offering this space, the district intends to help students gain experience in communication, networking, and problem-solving regardless of whether they launch a company immediately after graduation.
Community involvement is a core component of the program's structure. The school system is seeking local business owners and professionals to serve as mentors and guest lecturers for student teams. These volunteers provide guidance and real-world feedback to help students refine their products and services throughout the academic year. Those interested in supporting the initiative or donating through the local education foundation can find details on the school system's website.