Start with the photo

Your LinkedIn photo needs to be different from what you might use on Facebook or Instagram. It needs to be professional. Avoid the blurry images you have of yourself, or anything that has you out with friends. It needs to be of just you, wearing a professional outfit. Even if you need someone to help you take a professional headshot, do so. The only time you should even consider moving away from this is if you work in a specialty career path. For example, if you’re a chef, have a picture of you in the kitchen (but always make sure it’s still a profile picture of your face). Or, if you’re a videographer, you can be holding a camera. If it’s brand- and career-related, it’s OK to have it included. But other than this, always go professional.

Creative headline

Your resume will include all the bullet points of your working history. The headline is what helps turn heads, so get creative with this. When looking for Memphis jobs, you want someone to see a bit of your personality. You’re not just a mindless drone floating around. So, showcase yourself and your personality in the headline. Here are some creative examples if you need inspiration.

Create professional blogs

LinkedIn is not the place to upload spammy content to try to sell something. It’s not a place to post YouTube videos of your vacation to the Bahamas. However, it is the perfect spot for you to craft a blog geared toward your profession. If you’re a marketer, keep a blog about marketing, using social media to expand a brand, SEO, mobile marketing and so on. You can also upload from your blog if it’s located on another website. This keeps your profile fresh, relevant and in front of employers.

Participate

LinkedIn might be for professionals, but it is still a social media platform. When looking at getting a job in Memphis, join a related group that connects you to other Memphis professionals. Maybe you connect with other kitchen operators or hotel managers. Whatever group you join, make sure to post, stay active and participate. There’s no point in joining a group if others don’t know you exist.

Set yourself apart

These are just a few ways to set yourself apart from other job seekers in the greater Memphis area. Just remember, as is the case with your paper resume, keep it up to date and comb through it for any errors. A clean, easy-to-read and concise resume will let potential employers know everything they need to know about you, which helps boost your chance at landing that all-important interview.

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Brush Up That Resume

Now is the perfect time to update and touch up your resume. However, don’t have just one. There will be different positions for which you’ll want to highlight different skills. If you’re hitting the streets to hand out resumes at restaurants or clothing stores, have resumes on hand that are tailored to those jobs and highlight the skills and previous work experience you have in the specific industry.

If possible, have someone else read through your resume. They can point out mistakes and help you polish it.

Look for Openings

If you have a specific company you want to work for, head over to the company website and look for the Careers page, then check to see if there is an available opening. If you don’t find this information on the site, email the company directly to ask.

Next, you’ll want to check websites like LinkedIn and Monster, two of the largest job posting websites anywhere. You may also want to check The Commercial Appeal newspaper website to see what kinds of jobs are listed there as well.

Submit But Don’t Wait

Most jobs require submitting an application and resume online. However, after submitting, don’t just sit and wait. Continue looking. It may take some companies weeks, if not months, before they get around to filling a particular position. You probably don’t have that kind of time, so keep looking and applying.

Research

When a Memphis business calls and wants to bring you in for an interview, make sure to research the business. You need a strong understanding of what the business does, its history and what kind of products or services it offers. This way, during the interview process, you can ask questions. There will be a time during the interview when the human resources representative will ask if you have any questions. By asking well-thought-out questions regarding the company, you will demonstrate your knowledge and willingness to go the extra mile.

Finding the Right Job

These are just a handful of the ways you can go about looking for work in Memphis. Oftentimes, looking for work feels like a full-time job. So don’t get discouraged if you don’t get a quick response after submitting one application. Stick with it and keep looking. With a growing population and businesses coming in every week, you’ll find a job that fits your skill set perfectly.

Additional Reading:

We Are Memphis

Greater Memphis Chamber

Commercial Appeal

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Check out tax and business incentives

One reason why you might select Memphis over other destinations isn’t just because of its centralized location or less expensive properties than New York or Los Angeles. It’s because of the tax incentives. You want a location that will help you save money while boosting productivity and profits. There are a number of tax incentives available to you when you move your business to Memphis.

Through the Greater Memphis Chamber, you can search through the different incentives available to your business. This includes tax incentives, infrastructure and utility incentives, training and workforce incentives, plus financing incentives. So prior to any move, make sure to check out the Greater Memphis Chamber website for all financial opportunities available to you.

Small and minority-owned business services

Beyond the incentives open to all businesses moving into Memphis, there are added perks of owning a small business or being a minority running a business. The Tennessee Business Enterprise Resource Office (BERO) offers a number of business plan development services, which can include everything from B2B networking to assist with procurement. Before opening up shop, you should look into these services to find out if, or how, BERO can help you save money and get your business up and running faster.

Moving companies

If you’re moving equipment and goods from another city, you will need to book a moving company that is well respected and accredited. This way you know you’re working with a quality service provider who will get your company to Memphis in one piece. While the exact moving provider will vary depending on where you’re located, you need to consider BBB accredited companies and then go with the moving company that best fits your commercial and business needs. You can visit the BBB.org website for more information on accredited moving companies that can transit all of your business material from your current destination to Memphis. After all, you have all kinds of work to put in prior to the move. Having a professional take care of the moving services for you can make things that much easier (and give you one less thing to stress over).

Additional reading

We Are Memphis

Greater Memphis Chamber

Greater Memphis Chamber Incentives Page

Tennessee Business Resources

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According to Forbes, we’re spearheading the movement.

Gaining Forbes Attention

Whenever Forbes catches wind of business activity it either means something very good or very bad is happening within a specific sector of commerce. For Memphis, it is the former. Forbes’ contributing writer Elaine Pofeldt profiled the city’s push in hopes of growing minority-owned business.

As Mrs. Profeldt highlights, the African American business sector is growing by leaps and bounds. In fact, it is the fastest growing group within the United States. Now, one fifth of African Americans are starting and running new businesses, which is up 15.5 percent from 2016 (as reported by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, which is the largest study of entrepreneurship in the entire world).

However, Memphis isn’t just attempting to grow African American businesses. It has hopes of assisting other minorities, including Hispanic Americans and Asian Americans. The same Global Entrepreneurship Monitor study has indicated that 12 percent of Hispanic Americans are running new businesses and 17 percent of Asian Americans are running new businesses and startups.

Leading The Way In Minority Owned Businesses

64 percent of Memphis residents are black, according to the Forbes article. Of this 64 percent, there are 40,000 black-owned firms, with around 800 of these businesses employing more than just the owner. Additionally, there are another 1,000 Hispanic owned firms with 155 of these businesses employing more than just the owner.

In order to help promote these new businesses, Mayor Strickland is working on assisting 800 identified minority-owned businesses with employees. It is the goal of the mayor and the city government to help these 800 businesses grow revenue by at least $50 million in the next five years. This is being done through The 800 Initiative.

While we all will need to wait for the next five years to see the overall success of the program, it is reassuring the city is remaining proactive and doing what it can to lead the way in minority-owned businesses.

The business publication recently stated in an article the Memphis could lead the way in minority owned businesses.  Under the leadership of Mayor Jim Strickland, The 800 Initiative, launched in May 2018, has set a goal of growing the revenue of 800 minority-owned businesses with paid employees that the city has identified by $50 million by 2023.

With Memphis already thriving with black entrepreneurs and female entrepreneurs, it’s no wonder why national publications like Forbes are taking notice!

To see the full article from Forbes, click here!

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Follow your passion

With companies like St. Jude Medical, FedEx and ServiceMaster leading the way, entrepreneurs are encouraged to try new things and explore the options that are open to them. In addition to the large number of major corporations that have made Memphis their home, female entrepreneurs can follow any number of career paths, including music, fashion, food and any number of other creative pursuits.

An abundance of resources

The Creative Works annual conference and Epicenter are just two of the resources that can be used to not only connect with investors, but with other entrepreneurs as well. Female entrepreneurs can also learn a number of business-oriented skills that will allow them to pursue their dreams of creating their own career.

It’s not just a man’s world anymore!

In Memphis, the focus on minority- and women-based businesses has helped to create an environment in which women are encouraged to move forward with their own business goals. Whether they are part of the artisan or creative community or wanting to make a name for themselves in the corporate world, women are beginning to take advantage of these new opportunities and are making names for themselves in bold letters.

Memphis has been a city of opportunity for many years. In the recent past, female entrepreneurship has grown by leaps and bounds. With the financial opportunities that are now available to women, they now have the resources to pursue their dreams and make them come true. Women who have the initiative and the drive can enter almost any career field they choose and become a success. All they have to do is make up their mind to succeed and follow their passion!

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No. 1 — Dress for success

Wearing the right clothing is a vital part of making a first impression. While the Memphis area has embraced casual business attire for everyday wear, clothing for an interview should always stay conservative and professional. Perform a quick check in the mirror to see if there is anything odd that stands out. Make sure nothing is sloppy or wrinkled, and don’t forget the details such as a professional tie, briefcase or satchel. Take the time to research the business and consider an outfit that is similar to the ones worn by those who work there. The goal of the interview is to show that you are the right person for the job and the business culture.

No 2. — Maintain good eye contact

Honesty and respect are what employers are looking for in Memphis, and with such little time to gauge interviewees, appropriate eye contact can go a long way to establish that. Not holding eye contact can be from anxiety or insecurity, but it can be off-putting and convey a lack of trust and confidence. When seated, practice good posture, avoid fidgeting and keep eye contact throughout the discussion. Practice with a friend if maintaining eye contact is difficult.

No. 3 — Be knowledgeable and confident

An interviewer expects you to know about the company that you are looking to become a part of. Do your due diligence and research the company before it is time for your interview. This will show that you want to be essential to the company and that you know how to prepare. When sharing the knowledge you have learned, deliver it with confidence and only when appropriate. Do not sound cocky. Always smile and deliver a solid handshake; emit an approachable and friendly persona. An interviewer is not only looking for confidence but someone who can work well with others on the team as well as customers.

No. 4 — Follow up with a thank you

Following up with interviewers to thank them for their time and consideration is a great way to show that you are excited and desire the position. It also shows good manners. Good followup is vital in business, and a quick note or email can prove you know this. Keep it short and simple; remember that it is not a continuation of the interview, just a simple note of appreciation.

We want you to land that dream job in Memphis. By following the tips above, you can help make that amazing first impression and hopefully embark on the career you desire.

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Premier business resource center

One of the key challenges with starting a business is having access to the tools that you need to be successful. The leadership team at Epicenter is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs gain access to support in terms of investors, mentors and customers. The top challenges facing entrepreneurs include:

• Hiring the right employees
• Finding affordable funding sources
• Marketing strategy
• Creating realistic budgets
• Casting (and communicating!) a vision
• Dealing with the unknown
• Lack of collaboration

Epicenter provides an open and creative space that encourages collaboration and communication — critical aspects of a successful startup business.

Summer of acceleration 2018

The summer of 2018 got a great deal hotter for Memphis businesses, as four intensive summer boot camps pushed entrepreneurs to their limits. The Logistics Accelerator boot camp helped organizations explore logistics and supply chains, while the Launch Delta Home Services Accelerator encouraged high-tech startups in the world of IoT to get their organizations off the ground. ZeroTo510 Medical Device Accelerator supported the needs of medical technology companies as they explored the possibilities in the Memphis area. The AgLaunch Accelerator provided more than $50,000 in startup capital and up to three months of intensive business development support.

These four summer accelerators are only a few of the exciting opportunities for organizations in the Memphis area — all available due to the hard work and dedication of the individuals at Epicenter. Learn more about how Epicenter Memphis can help entrepreneurs prepare to make a difference in the world.

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1. “Good ideas are cheap. Success comes from hard work, not a stroke of genius.”—Nir Eyal

Nearly everyone knows someone with a business idea that they’re sure will solve everyone’s problems and make them millions of dollars. However, if asked, many of these people don’t have plans for turning their ideas into profitable companies, in which case even the best idea becomes completely worthless. If you have an idea for a small business, it’s essential to actualize it with a business strategy and concrete goals to make it into a reality.

2. “Don’t plan everything! Listen to your customers and make changes as needed.”—Vanessa Van Edwards

Being sure of yourself and laying concrete plans is essential for getting a business off the ground. However, once you’re up and running, it’s paramount to listen to your customers. Though the phrase “the customer is always right” has been watered down in recent years, it holds true in terms of small business development. Ultimately, customers will only pay for things they want, so if business owners grow out of touch with their customers’ wants, it will swiftly become impossible to make money. Always keep the desires of your consumers at the forefront, and make sure the product you’re offering solves a problem for your customers.

3. “If you want to succeed in business, count your costs and project revenue ahead of time.”—Jason Quey

Though this mostly applies to businesses with venture capital, all entrepreneurs should be wary of upscaling too quickly. Although scaling should be an eventual goal for any business, it’s important to remember that expanding costs money. If a startup grows too quickly without the revenue to support the expansion, it will eventually crumple under its own weight. With this in mind, entrepreneurs need to always ensure cost does not exceed revenue, or else they will find themselves swiftly going under.

Additional resources

• Advice from successful entrepreneurs
• What to know about the Lean Startup
• The danger of growing your business too quickly
• Grow your business in Memphis

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Bottom line: If your life or work involves PR or marketing—or if you’d like to grow or make the move into either of these popular fields—you’re not going to want to miss this! Listen to it for yourself or share it with someone you know who could benefit from it.

What is The Boilerplate about?

Beth and Brandon will sit down with marketing and PR professionals, journalists, educators (and more!) to discuss challenges in the industry, along with the solutions that have worked for them. By providing this in-depth look at the work of a full-service advertising agency, inferno hopes that The Boilerplate will build professional relationships and community in the Greater Memphis area.

Follow along with this groundbreaking, relationship-building podcast from the very beginning!

Who is inferno?

inferno is a full-service advertising, public relations, design, and digital marketing firm based in Memphis. They create award-winning, results-driven solutions that solve complex go-to-market challenges for BRB, BRC, healthcare, cultural, financial services, recreation, non-profit and agricultural clients. 

Introducing The Boilerplate podcast episode 1

In this first episode, 5 Tips to Boost your PR, Beth and Brandon discuss the importance of public relationships along with their best practices for owned and earned media. They provide five key considerations that every business and PR professional should take to heart when building a successful PR strategy.

You can listen to it here.

The second episode, Working with the Media, Beth and Brandon sit down with Greg Akers, Editor-in-Chief of the Memphis Business Journal, and Associate Editor, Meagan Nichols, to discuss what journalists are seeking from PR professionals. They provide an in-depth look at the importance of building strong, genuine relationships with the media.

You can listen to it here.

This podcast can be streamed from all major podcast distributors, including Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play and Spotify. New episodes will be available every other Wednesday and there will be videos accompanying each episode on The Boilerplate website.

Keep watching for new episodes and updated information!

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The truth of the matter is Memphis is a prized gem in the employment industry. To land a job in Memphis, TN, though, you’ll need to be on top of your game. Here’s a look at six things to do before your job interview in Memphis.

Image source

Research the potential employer

To get a true sense of a company, you can research, read news releases and talk to friends. You may even be able to speak with a few of the company’s existing employees if you know any. The goal is to get a better understanding of what the company represents so you can align your interview answers to the employer’s values and morals. Reviewing the company’s profile on social media and on its own website is an excellent way to prepare for your job interview, but you should also check out company review sites such as Glassdoor, which offers an in-depth look at a company’s values and standards. Individual employee blogs may even be available to provide you with a glimpse at life within the company.

Pinpoint and familiarize yourself with topics worth discussing

By scrolling through the company’s social media presence on sites like Twitter, you can gain insight into the latest news, events and product topics related to your potential employer. Keep these in mind, as they’ll be worth discussing during the job interview. If applicable, you should also try to use one or more of the company’s products before the interview, and be prepared to discuss the products’ features and offer input.

Research the interview process

Try to find out who will be part of the interview process ahead of time so you can research these individuals. A simple Google or LinkedIn search will likely give you a strong starting point. The more you know about them individually, the better you’ll be asking and responding to questions. You might also consider asking the human resources contact for the company to provide you with an idea of the interview format ahead of time to help you better prepare.

Practice in front of a mirror

Always take the time before an interview to carefully think about the lasting impression you wish to leave. Make a mental list of your skills, accomplishments, creative endeavors and any volunteer work or special training you have participated in. If you are concerned about your nerves getting the best of you, jot down a few notes or bullet points to guide you through the interview. Don’t just THINK about your responses, practice them by getting in front of a mirror. Ask yourself a few anticipated questions out loud and answer them. If you have a friend available, do a mock interview with them and ask for feedback.

Dress and look professional

Plan to keep your attire basic and conservative. Most importantly, make sure whatever you wear is clean and pressed. That said, it’s not just about your clothing choices. Make sure your shoes are clean, your fingernails are manicured, and no loose hems or threads are dangling from your clothes. If you look your best, you’ll feel your best, which will boost your confidence. And confidence is key to pulling off a winning interview.

Be prepared

You don’t want to be caught short in the event that your interviewee requests a list of references. With this in mind, be sure to have copies of your references on hand, along with a few extra resumes and a notepad. This both demonstrates your sincere interest in acquiring the position and illustrates that you are prepared and organized.

With preparation and a passion for the job you’re applying for, Memphis is sure to exceed all your employment expectations.

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Here are the most important details you need to know:

WHO:

YOU are invited to be part of this incredible event! It is open to anyone, but if you are an educator or a business professional, you are especially encouraged to attend. Come make a lasting impact on the next generation of leaders and innovators in this country who could look back on this night as pivotal in their career.

WHAT:

Pitch Night is the exciting, fast-paced culmination of a 16-week finalist program. It is a fun opportunity for hard-working high school students to showcase the ventures they’ve created to build the future of Memphis. You will be invited to engage with the innovations and the leaders who created them. Vote to select the grand prize winner, and have a direct hand in helping to select thousands of dollars in additional funding for the best student ideas.

Light refreshments will be available.

Even better: Encourage students to use their full potential to change the world.

WHERE:

Join us in the McCallum Ballroom, Bryan Campus Life Center at Rhodes College. Address: 2000 North Parkway, Memphis, 38112

Free parking is available in the Rhodes campus parking lots. There are two lots within a short, one-minute walk to the Bryan Campus Life Center.

Tickets are $10 per person, with all proceeds benefiting the skills development and entrepreneurial ideas of future LITE students.

WHEN:

Thursday, December 6, at 5:30 p.m.

• 5:30 – 6:00: Hear from 27 different students as they share elevator pitches at their booths.
• 6:00 – 7:00: Watch eight finalists pitch on stage for the chance at funding.

WHY:

Because you could inspire a student to dream big  AND improve a city you love. What could be better than that?

LITE has been named one of the five most innovative grassroots organizations driving change in the country by The Renewal Project. Forbes magazine has named it one of the 20 ideas that can change the world. This program has already helped over 2,000 students in Memphis develop and strengthen their entrepreneurial skills.

WHY WAIT?

Get a head start! Between now and Nov. 30 at 11:59 p.m., you are invited to vote for your favorite ideas here. Meet the young innovators and help decide who should pitch on the Pitch Night stage! These students want your vote!

Purchase your tickets here. We look forward to seeing you soon!

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5 best Memphis Wi-Fi locations in the downtown area

Bluff City Coffee – Located on South Main Street, Bluff City Coffee is perfect for a remote day of work. Breakfast sandwiches, pastries, a lunch menu and delicious coffee, this locally owned coffee house is a popular favorite (try the “Golden Kelli” drink and thank us later).

Ghost River Brewing – If you like a relaxed work pace later in the day, you might want to check out Ghost River Brewing. Aside from having delicious, locally brewed beer and free WiFi, the taproom serves as a great place to host casual meetings or after work drinks.

Stock & Belle – Looking for a truly dynamic space to work that you won’t get bored in? Stock & Belle is the spot for you. With a hair salon on the second floor, a retail store, coffee space, and art gallery on the main floor, this location brings plenty to look at, speedy WiFi, and a cool atmosphere all in one.

Café Keough – Beloved amongst downtowners, Café Keough is a locally owned French café offering fresh, handmade breads, cookies, and entrees as well as expertly crafted coffee drinks. As an added perk, you can also order a cocktail or beer to take the edge off while you work.

Starbucks – New to the downtown area, the Starbucks on the corner of Monroe and Main offers all the familiar comforts of the franchise. Right on Main Street, it’s conveniently located in central downtown, walking distance from nearby shops and restaurants.

When you’re looking for free Wi-Fi and a great atmosphere that will let you get some work done while you’re away from the office, consider our list of the best places with Wi-Fi in Memphis.

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Glassdoor has recently compiled a list of the best cities in America for jobs, and Memphis made number 7.

Memphis, TN:

• Hot Jobs: Production Manager, Account Executive, Restaurant Manager
• Job Openings: 26,022
• Median Base Salary: $43,900
•  Ranked first in cost of living and 23rd in job satisfaction

With unemployment at a 50-year low and Memphis being the innovative city that it is, it’s no wonder that we’ve made the list.

To see the full list, check out this article from our friends at Commerical Appeal!

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Being an entrepreneur is a challenging and competitive career path, as becoming a business owner—especially as a minority business owner—is no small feat. From overcoming barriers to entry to managing finances, there are plenty of obstacles along the way . You’ll learn quickly that an entrepreneurial road can be a lonely one, and not everyone will agree with your mindset. Some people may even think your ambitions are crazy! With this in mind, it is essential to have the right resources at your disposal.

Minority Business Initiative in Memphis

Enter the 800 Initiative to empower minority-owned and -operated businesses. The program targets the 800+ African American-owned businesses in Memphis that are between the startup and full-scale phases, and the program goal is geared specifically towards assisting minority businesses and increasing  equity within Memphis economy. The goal is to increase local minority-owned business revenue by $50 million by the year 2023. Some of the services, tools and resources for entrepreneurs through the 800 Initiative program include:

• Business coaching
• Technical assistance
• Access to loans and grants
• Education

Building upon the $500,000 provision from Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland’s budget to kickstart the 800 Initiative, major companies have made financial commitments to the program. These include a four-year, $1 million commitment by FedEx and leading corporate partners Epicenter, Christian Brothers University and Start Co. The program is hosted by the Office of Business Diversity & Compliance at the Universal Life building and will be spearheaded by Start Co., with more companies added as resources in later stages of the program. Moreover, Christian Brothers University is soon launching the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, which will offer educational courses in entrepreneurship, learning credits and job training for students.

This program is certainly a step in the right direction in terms of adding necessary resources and tools for minority entrepreneurs, a cause near and dear to many Memphians within the business community. Within the first fiscal year of his term, the mayor was able to increase the amount of contracting dollars given to minority-driven businesses by 12 percent, reaching a total of 21 percent. There is still much work to be done, however, as a recent disparity study showed that over 90 percent of the $36.5 billion generated by privately owned, Memphis-based businesses is produced by white-owned enterprises. The 800 Initiative offers the power to change those numbers and level the playing field for minority-owned businesses.

Further Reading:

https://memphischamber.com/

https://www.memphistn.gov/news/what_s_new/800_initiative_will_empower_minority_businesses

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Millennials are flocking to America’s cities in record numbers, but not all cities are created equal. Memphis was recently listed as one of the top cities to which millennials are moving, with its millennial population increasing 9.5% between 2010 and 2015. This trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down, so let’s take a minute to talk about what it is that makes Memphis so attractive to millennials.

Since arriving in the working world, millennials have left an indelible imprint. And in easy to access cities like Memphis, TN, millennials have found a home to grow, live and flourish. This is the story of Memphis and its millennials.

A city on the move

For Memphis entrepreneurs, Memphis is a resilient and hardworking place you quickly learn to call home. In particular, many young, sharp minds with dreams of running a successful business have been drawn to this little big town. In fact, Memphis was recently named one of the top destinations for millennials. Steeped in community and committed to making a difference, we are Memphis and we are a city on the move.

A generation on the move

The noise coming from the millennial generation simply can’t be ignored. Indeed, one study indicated that millennials might just be the most entrepreneurial generation in history. Given that Memphis is a mecca for creative, innovative and hungry young minds, it’s no wonder more than 200,000 millennials have found a home in Memphis.

Of course, it also doesn’t hurt that Memphis has been making great strides in encouraging people with big ideas to relocate here. Memphis provides a perfect environment for artists, creators, entrepreneurs and anyone with a dream of starting their own business. It’s certainly no coincidence that millennials have shown a thirst for leadership and have flocked to booming cities like Memphis.

Millennials experience success in Memphis

Also known as 3i Design Group, three(i) Creative Communications was founded by one young millennial in 2013. Since then, the organization has helped not one, but four candidates win their Memphis primaries this past election season!

This is just one example of how millennials are making an impact in Memphis. Together, millennial entrepreneurs are writing a new chapter of Memphis history, working with the city itself to grown and flourish. This is the story of Memphis and its millennials, and it is just starting to get good!

America’s largest small town

One of Memphis’ greatest strengths is its unique combination of big-city amenities and small-town charm. It has the cultural diversity and economic opportunities of a city, along with a tight-knit community and low cost of living typical of a much smaller municipality. This unique combination isn’t lost on the many new residents who are calling Memphis home.

Of course, it also doesn’t hurt that Memphis has been making great strides in encouraging people with big ideas to relocate here. Memphis provides a perfect environment for artists, creators, entrepreneurs and anyone with a dream of starting their own business. It’s certainly no coincidence that recent studies have shown millennials to be possibly the most entrepreneurial generation in American history.

There are currently more than 200,500 millennials making their home in Memphis, and more arrive all the time. But what’s really interesting is why Memphis is growing in popularity among the millennial generation.

Why Memphis?

Apartment searching site Abodo recently published a survey of 2,000 millennials born between 1982 and 1998 to determine what they look for in a city. Turns out that a lot of the qualities they seek are among Memphis’ biggest strengths.

1. A thriving job market: This is the No. 1 thing that surveyed millennials said they look for in a city, and Memphis delivers. In addition to the fact that several major corporations have branches or headquarters here—FedEx alone employs about 30,000 people in the area—Memphis has become a great place to not only get a job, but also start a business. In fact, CNN recently ranked Memphis among America’s best cities to launch a startup.
2. Affordable housing: Memphis routinely ranks among the U.S. cities with the lowest cost of living, with home prices and average monthly rent well below the national average. Indeed, CBS News recently listed Memphis among the 10 cheapest places to live in the country.
3. Parks and hiking trails: Many millennials stated that living in a city with lots of green space is absolutely essential. Memphis has that covered, from the Old Forest State Natural Area located just a mile outside of town to the vast outdoor playground of Shelby Farms Park.

Other qualities that ranked highly in the survey include increasing walkability, a revitalized downtown, music venues, a thriving creative class, local restaurants and coffee shops. Needless to say, these are all things you’ll find in Memphis.

Perhaps most importantly of all, Memphis is a place that encourages creativity and rewards hard work—qualities that the millennial generation has in abundance. Our city is known for its rich history, diverse culture, growing arts scene and business-friendly attitude, so it’s no surprise that it’s becoming a home for people who value those very same things. If you’re one of them, we look forward to meeting you!

(Additional reading and source information):

*One study reported that the millennials are challenging to become the most entrepreneurial generations in our history.

*200,000 millennials who have found a home in Memphis

 *three(i) Creative Communications 

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The one thing downtown Memphis is lacking is a grocery store, but that may be about to change, as the Memphis Business Journal recently reported that the wheels are in motion to build a grocery store downtown by the end of 2018.

Downtown hopes for new grocery store

Residents of downtown Memphis have been dreaming of a convenient grocery-shopping option for ages, and that dream might just come true in the form of a 25,000-square-foot building owned by Archer Custom Builders and located just a block off South Main St.

Company owner Tom Archer has been working and investing in the South Main neighborhood for decades, and he shares the widespread opinion that a local grocery store is just what the downtown area needs.

“I’m on a mission to get a grocery store down here,” Archer told the Memphis Business Journal. “If you need something, that’s where you’ll go.”

Plans in motion

Archer has been reaching out to grocery companies to land a tenant for the property, which is located at 136 Webster Ave. If none of the big chains take the bait, he told the Journal that he’s more than willing to take charge and open a grocery store himself, with a plan to “start small and build to the need.”

And considering the recent developments in downtown Memphis, the need for a local grocery store certainly exists—to say nothing of the growing number of families calling the South Main neighborhood home. Archer plans to finish developing the Webster Ave. building by the end of 2018, a feat that would no doubt please many locals and boost Memphis’ already-growing downtown.

Big things downtown

The announcement of a potential future grocery store in the heart of Memphis comes amid a flurry of recent activity in the revitalized downtown area. The Memphis Trolley recently made its much-lauded return to service after a four-year absence, and plans for a four-star hotel and luxury apartment building at One Beale are back on track.

Memphis is often celebrated for its past, but it’s becoming increasingly clear that the city’s future is shaping up to be just as exciting. Be sure to check back for more updates on downtown Memphis!

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For starters, you have access to countless Memphis startups, businesses and entrepreneurs—not to mention big corporations with Memphis headquarters—all of which are eager to connect with hard workers who have big ideas straight out of college. Second, there are a lot of prestigious Memphis colleges and universities that look pretty darn good on a resume. Whether you’ve just graduated from any one of our more than 10 colleges and universities, these tips will come in handy as you head out on your job hunt.

1. Start early: If you wait until after graduation to start your job search, you’re already late. Many college students start networking with faculty members, lining up internships, taking leadership roles in campus organizations and attending club events as early as freshman year. It sounds crazy, but these are competitive times—get an early start or risk getting left behind.
2. Focus on what you’ve learned: Employers like to see candidates with experience, but as you’re no doubt aware, it’s hard to show experience when you’re looking for your first real job. If you don’t have a long employment history, focus instead on your life experiences. What have they taught you? How would you apply those lessons to a new job? How did they make you a better, more well-rounded person? If you can answer these questions with conviction, you’ll impress most employers more than you would by simply reciting a laundry list of previous jobs.
3. Polish up your social media presence: When it comes to social media, there are two things you should keep in mind. One, it offers a great opportunity to show off your professional skills, network and connect with people who can help you in your budding career. Two, if your mom has a Facebook page, chances are your future boss does too, so be careful what you post.
4. Learn to budget: Your college days are behind you now, and so is the “work-hard-play-hard” ethos that came with them. It’s easy to see your first real pay check as your ticket to new clothes and nights out at the bar, but that attitude is a great recipe for a hangover and an empty wallet. Landing a job requires focus, and staying out of debt requires learning how to manage your money. After all, that first job might not last forever.
5. “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams”: Although it’s been a while since Henry David Thoreau penned that famous quote, it’s stood the test of time. Even as it becomes more difficult to secure the type of safe, permanent job that defined past generations, there’s never been a better time to start your own business and follow your own unique vision. Decide what you want and go after it.

Memphis has a reputation as the best city for startups, a friendly place for businesses, and a city that supports arts, music and all things creative. If you’ve just graduated from college and are working on figuring out your next move, you couldn’t have a better launch pad. We wish you the best of luck!

Looking for even more job opportunities? Check this out!

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In addition to Memphis’s popular Beale Street and BBQ locations, this constant growth is also being felt in other areas, including technology, the arts, agriculture and food services. It helps that Memphis is uniquely placed to offer a low cost of living, a taste of Southern hospitality and a good quality of life.

Entrepreneurs in action

To learn about the history of local entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, look no further than the National Civil Rights Museum, which details the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in both the country and our city. Indeed, the entrepreneurial spirit of Memphis is closely intertwined with this history, with a strong sense of community and an understanding of the past, present and future of the city.

If you’re looking for both a tasty meal and a quick history lesson, start off at the Four Way Restaurant in South Memphis. This flourishing establishment has served iconic leaders and musicians, like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., B.B. King, and many others.

Entrepreneurs in the arts

Memphis has long been known for its strong artistic culture, so it’s no surprise that entrepreneurs in the arts are thriving in these parts. Their success can be seen everywhere from theaters and ballet companies to museums and private exhibitions.

Ballet Memphis serves as just one example. Founded by fourth generation Memphian Dorothy Gunther Pugh, it’s embedded with richly symbolic art and has made ballet available to a larger portion of the population. The Hattiloo Theatre in Memphis is another popular art center that combines actors and the community through rich and meaningful performances.

Entrepreneurs in food and service delivery

The food scene in Memphis is poised for explosion. Beyond offering the classic BBQ selections that Memphis is known for, entrepreneurs have opened businesses that offer everything from traditional American cuisine to a taste of global flavors. Whether you’re seeking Italian wine and bites or fusion food trucks, you needn’t leave Memphis!

For a taste of Southern excellence, try out the New Orleans-infused Second Line Restaurant, and don’t sleep on Memphis Black Restaurant Week—an annual event that highlights the creative flavor of African American Memphis restauranteurs.

Entrepreneurs in Memphis

Our city’s unique location makes it both a commercial and financial hub, which is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to start or grow businesses of all kinds. If that sounds good to you, why not hop on the bandwagon and take advantage of our city’s booming economy to bring your business to life?

Looking to start a business in Memphis? Click here!

In addition to being a hub of entertainment for locals and tourists alike, the city of Memphis is home to a flourishing business community. There are numerous entrepreneurial opportunities to be found here, including but by no means limited to the areas of music and the arts, food and dining, and professional services.

Music and the arts

It’s hard not to associate Memphis with Elvis Presley, but our city’s music scene extends far beyond The King. For an up-close-and-personal glimpse at just how central live music is to the daily lives of many in Memphis, look no further than the bars and restaurants on Beale Street and elsewhere—not to mention the music festivals held in these parts throughout the year.

Not to be outdone, the Memphis art sector is also expanding, with galleries popping up across the city. In fact, Shelby County’s nonprofit arts industry accounts for nearly $200 million in annual spending and sustains the equivalent of more than 6,000 local jobs. The arts are more than just a hobby or attraction here in Memphis – it’s a creative economy.

Food and dining

Memphis is known far and wide for its BBQ, but make no mistake—our city’s culinary offerings aren’t at all limited to deliciously seasoned ribs. In fact, the restaurants and eateries around here offer a wide variety of cuisines, each more mouthwatering than the last. Whether you’re looking to drop by a food truck for a quick yet satisfying bite or enjoy a sit-down meal prepared by an award-winning chef at a high-end restaurant, Memphis has you covered.

Professional services

A growing city like Memphis doesn’t simply run on autopilot. Rather, it’s the hustle of the locals that keeps things chugging along smoothly across a wide variety of fields, including accounting, legal assistance, printing, construction, teaching, cleaning, landscaping… the list goes on.

Memphis is always growing, which makes it the ideal place to launch a startup company. Whatever your area of expertise may be, our city will welcome your entrepreneurial spirit.

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Every year, Fortune magazine names the 100 Best Companies to Work For, and we are so proud of the organizations that made the 2018 list! If you’re looking for a job in Memphis, you might want to hit up one of these:

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Ranked at No. 57, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital employs 4,355 people in Memphis. When asked about the high corporate morale, employees pointed to personable leaders and an understanding of how important their jobs are. Moreover, many reported genuinely looking forward to work every day, and noted that St. Jude’s mission—helping children with serious illness—makes the hospital an incredibly gratifying place to work. Other benefits of working for St. Jude include subsidized childcare, an on-site gym and a strict non-discrimination policy.

Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare

Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare employs 11,402 people at several locations in and around Memphis, and was ranked at No. 91 on this year’s list—up from No. 92 last year. Employees were quick to point to the “extraordinary” culture as one of the qualities that make Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare such a great place to work, along with the organization’s commitment to diversity (minorities make up more than 46 percent of the workforce). This healthcare company had 690 job openings as of January 2018, so step right up.

FedEx

Headquartered in Memphis, FedEx was bumped up from No. 99 on last year’s list to No. 94 in 2018. The company employs 281,933 people worldwide, with perks including college tuition reimbursement, fully paid sabbaticals and health insurance for part-timers. In addition to FedEx being a great place to work, many of its employees take pride in the company’s dedication to charitable causes. Did you know FedEx has committed to donate $200 million to 200 communities by 2020?

Baker Donelson

Since the Baker Donelson law firm was founded in 1888, it has branched out considerably. It now employs nearly 1,500 people in offices all over the Southeast—but it still proudly has its headquarters in Memphis. Baker Donelson took the No. 96 spot on this year’s list, with employees citing generous salaries, generous perks and total trust in management as some of their favorite things about the job. Notably, some also described an atmosphere in which “competition and rivalry do not exist.” Sounds good to us!

Memphis offers all the benefits of a big city with the personality of a small town. It’s this combination of a business-friendly attitude and a family-friendly philosophy that has made it a hub for major companies, as well as a destination for those who want to start their own businesses. Here’s to your Memphis enterprise being named one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For next year!

For more things Memphis, check this out!

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An entrepreneurial spirit has always been a big part of what makes Memphis tick. Piggly Wiggly—the first grocery chain in America—was founded here in 1916, and our city continues to be a place where new ideas take root and flourish more than a century later. You don’t have to look far to see unique, innovative companies getting their start in Memphis every day. These are a just a few that we really think you should be watching. 

HelloHome

This Memphis-based real estate startup has been picking up speed since it was founded in 2015, thanks to a concept that could revolutionize the process of buying and selling your home. HelloHome allows you to avoid costly commissions by connecting you with real estate agents who will sell your home for a flat rate of $3,500 (instead of the traditional 3-percent commission). It also offers a free platform to connect home buyers to real estate agents, providing a more cost-effective option for buyers and sellers alike. Moreover, HelloHome is the first—and, so far, the only—female-founded and female-led real estate tech startup.

Preteckt

Preteckt is using machine learning technology to change the trucking industry. This Memphis startup manufactures hardware that connects to a big rig’s diagnostic port, logs every second of sensor data and transmits this information to the user via a cloud-based service. The ability to detect maintenance problems weeks in advance translates to on-time deliveries for customers and major savings for trucking companies. 

Somavac

Somavac creates medical devices to help people heal at home after surgeries like mastectomies, and they have developed a tool that drastically improves on the current standard of care for at-home, post-op drainage. Dr. Esra Roan left a tenured position as a professor at the University of Memphis to become a first-time entrepreneur, and she’s been incredibly successful. She and her business partner, Josh Herwig, are graduates of ZeroTo510 and have attracted investment from angel investors.

Dev/Con Detect

Billed as the “Norton of ad-tech,” Dev/Con Detect is an ad-tech security company that provides “digital revenue protection through patent-protected technology and expert teams.” If that sounds like convoluted cyberspeak, here’s the premise in a nutshell: cybersecurity software that eliminates the kinds of advertising fraud that cost advertisers and publishers billions of dollars every year. It’s not hard to see why Dev/Con Detect has been receiving a lot of attention since it got started in 2016. 

Soundways

Memphis has been a hotbed of musical innovation for decades, from the blues pioneers of the 1920s to the legendary Sun Records era of the ‘50s—and we can’t forget today’s thriving indie scene. Soundways offers musical innovation of another kind, developing technology that changes the way music is recorded, transmitted and heard. Since its founding in 2016, Soundways has been a company led by audio engineers whose only goal is to serve the music. 

There are a lot of reasons why Memphis is an alluring destination for anyone looking to start a new business. The spirit of entrepreneurship is woven into the fabric of the city, along with a low cost of living, city initiatives that encourage small business growth and an indefinable “cool” factor that’s impossible to match. Memphis is also one of the cities with the lowest startup costs in America, according to SmartAsset. This all adds up to a city that thrives on new ideas—and we hope yours is next!

For more insights into the Memphis startup scene, check this out!

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Ranking the top cities

In a recent study by Blacktech Week, Memphis dethroned Atlanta and took the No. 1 spot on a ranking of the best metropolitan areas for black-owned companies after coming in at No. 3 last time around. Montgomery, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., and Savannah rounded out the rest of the top 5.

The study used data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Kauffman Foundation’s 2017 Index of Startup Activity to identify the cities in which black-owned businesses are thriving. The results showed that compared to the Atlanta metro area, Memphis has a lower unemployment rate and a higher percentage of black-owned businesses, as well as a comparable average annual revenue.

Why Memphis?

As Memphians, we know we’ve been putting in work to make progress for minority entrepreneurs. But outsiders tend to ask, what is it that makes our city special for entrepreneurs? As it turns out, a lot of things.

• Low cost of living: Memphis enjoys a remarkably low cost of living, despite being a fairly large city. Memphis is the 23rd biggest city in the U.S., but its cost of living is roughly 12 percent below the national average. A 2015 survey also showed that folks in Memphis pay less for utilities—including gas, water and electricity—than anywhere else in the nation.
• Lots of support: As a city, our organizations want to see black-owned businesses thrive and work towards that every day. The Black Business Association of Memphis serves minority- and women-owned small businesses throughout the region, while organizations like Emerge Memphis and EpiCenter exist to encourage and support entrepreneurship in the city.
• An ideal workforce: With a strong work ethic and a median age of 35, the Memphis workforce is ready to get down to business. There are grants and programs in place to help area companies find and train workers, and the number of available employees in Memphis is expected to increase by several percentage points by 2021.
• Rock-bottom tax rates: Good news for employers and employees alike—Tennessee has the second-lowest state and local tax burden per capita in the country, with no income tax on wages. Plus, the City of Memphis and Shelby County don’t have a payroll (occupational) tax or a head tax.
• A thriving community: From Black Restaurant Week to Hattiloo Theatre, Memphis is gaining a reputation as a supportive environment for black-owned businesses, and as a city that attracts and encourages talent and ambition.

Statistics can tell us a lot, but we think Memphis has something else going for it. Call it soul, spirit, grit or determination—it’s that culture of hustle and hard work that the folks who call this city home know all too well.

Come see us sometime and experience Memphis culture for yourself! And if you’re thinking of starting a business here, be sure to check out these incentives for those seeking to locate or expand their business in Memphis.

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The past two years have been quite an adventure for Memphis sisters Madison Star and Mallory Iyana, the mini moguls who struck a deal on ABC’s “Shark Tank,” an Emmy Award-winning reality show where aspiring entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to “sharks” —  some of the country’s best-known business magnates.

The sharks – among them moguls Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Bethenny Frankel and Richard Branson — search for the best business ideas from aspiring entrepreneurs and select those businesses they want to back, using their own money. Contestants must deliver a pitch to convince the sharks to invest in their business. In return, the sharks receive a return on their investment.

The tween sisters’ company, Angels and Tomboys, LLC, which makes fun-scented natural handmade body lotions and sprays for their peers, had already sold more than $50,000 in products, thanks to social media promotion, grassroots marketing, and word of mouth, prior to the girls’ television appearance.

But following their enthusiastic pitch on an episode of Shark Tank’s eighth season, which included some song and dance, they received a major boost when Dallas Maverick’s owner Mark Cuban and Daymond John, founder, and CEO of apparel company FUBU, decided to take a gamble on the girls. The sharks, impressed with Angels and Tomboys’ already strong sales record, offered them a $60,000 investment deal.

“Throughout the process and the pitch, we kept a positive attitude and were confident that we’d make a deal,” said Madison. “Our brand serves a great purpose and we knew that one of the sharks would see that, and in our case, two amazing sharks saw and agreed that our brand was relevant and needed. We were and are still very much excited about landing a deal with both Mark and Daymond.”

The girls’ business idea stemmed from their desire for body care products that didn’t smell like mom’s. They wanted to create something subtler and less flowery that would appeal to tweens.

With the full support of their mom, Viara Iyadunni, Madison and Mallory developed a line of handmade, vegan-friendly body lotions and sprays using natural ingredients like shea butter and aloe.  Their products are also paraben free so parents can feel good about safe use on delicate young skin.

“My girls have always both been very ambitious and caring young ladies,” said Viara, who refers to herself as the girls’ “momager.” “They are sharp to know that if they had a desire for age-appropriate body care products, there must be other girls their ages who felt the same way. So, not only is the development of their products a problem solved for their own personal use, but they provided a solution to a problem for girls all over the world. They are agents of change and I’m very proud of them.”

Angels and Tomboys’ lotions and potions have fun names descriptive of their delicious scents, including Cherry Star Glam, Watermelon Funk, and Frozen Hot Chocolate. The girls believe that when you smell good, you feel good. Each bottle is wrapped in a label featuring its own cartoon character, designed by the girls.

The name “Angels and Tomboys” reflects the girls’ personalities. Madison, 12, is the “angel” and Mallory, 10, is the “tomboy.” The products are made to appeal to all types of girls, from bookworms to ballerinas to basketball players. Their motto: “All Girls Are Created Equally Different.”

Over the past couple of years, these Memphis-made girls have been featured in Newsday, HuffPost, Black Enterprise, Jet Magazine, and Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls, and have been guests on the daytime talk show “The Real.”

Madison and Mallory have managed to operate and grow their business while maintaining their status as honor roll students and making time to give back to the community. In lieu of birthday gifts, Madison and Mallory collect donations each year for their Memphis neighbors in need. To date, the girls have collected hundreds of coats and shoes for women’s shelters. They’ve also launched a nonprofit called Girlhood Academy, which aims to combat bullying and encourages self-esteem and self-respect. They also donate personal hygiene products to girls in impoverished areas.

Last year, these blossoming community leaders hosted the National Civil Rights Museum’s Student Forum Freedom Awards, honoring Rev. Bernice King, Hugh Masekela, and Morris Dee.

Angels and Tomboys have been selling products online, through the company’s website, Zulily, and Amazon, and at pop-up shops and tradeshows. But now the dynamic duo is preparing to open their own brick-and-mortar shop in Memphis’ Binghampton neighborhood. The building, located at 3078 Summer Avenue, has two retail spaces. The neighboring space will be occupied by their aunt, Omi Ogunwale El, a businesswoman and philanthropist who owns Green Goddess Vegan Foods. Clearly, entrepreneurship, philanthropy and girl power run in the family. Angels and Tomboys will have their grand opening during the first week of June, and Green Goddess Vegan foods will have theirs on may 19th.

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A decade of Memphis growth

Memphis’s status as one of the elite metropolitan cities in the United States is quickly gaining momentum, and yet it is still one the most affordable places to live. Programs like the Greater Memphis Alliance for a Competitive Workforce (GMACW) have been working to get the next generation ready to join the workforce, and Memphis’ location and logistical advantages have led a number of the nation’s best companies to put down roots here. A nationally recognized municipal parks system featuring 165 green spaces hasn’t hurt either.

One of the main reasons that Memphis finds itself being mentioned among the elite cities in America over the last decade is an increased awareness of the need to create opportunities for women and minorities. As recently as 2015, Forbes magazine named Tennessee the top state for female entrepreneurs, and Memphis alone saw a 116 percent increase in female-owned businesses from 2007 to 2012. That trend has continued recently, with the American Express State of Women-Owned Business Report showing women in Memphis are starting their own businesses at five times the national rate.

The emphasis Memphis has placed on creating opportunities for female entrepreneurs has clearly proven beneficial, and the ninth annual RISE 2018 Women’s Success Summit is part of that push.

Charting a path to success

This year’s event will be facilitated by Melissa Kaye, managing director of the Memphis chapter of the eWomen Network. The summit will focus on helping female entrepreneurs discover the key to unleashing their abilities to found and grow successful businesses. Attendees will learn immediate and tangible breakthrough strategies that will change not only their approach to business, but their approach to life.

The Memphis chapter of the eWomen Network is one of 118 across America, empowering over 500,000 women nationally to reach their fullest potential. Every year, the eWomen Network conducts more than 2,000 events that are routinely recognized as some of the top conferences of their kind.

RISE 2018 Women’s Success Summit will welcome guest speaker Sandra Yancey, a best-selling author and award-winning international entrepreneur who has been inspiring women to reach their fullest potential for over 20 years. Her crusade to help 1 million women entrepreneurs each achieve $1 million in annual revenue will be on full display when she takes the stage this spring.

The event will be held at the Racquet Club of Memphis on Wednesday, May 16, and will begin with an informal networking session at 10:15 a.m. You can find complete registration information for exhibitors and attendees on the eWomen Network Memphis chapter website.

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AOL co-founder Steve Case is bringing his venture capital firm across the country and Memphis is on the list. Memphis startup companies will have a chance to pitch their startup for a $100,000 investment!

Memphis is the epicenter of change! Our entrepreneurs will have an exciting chance to breakthrough Silicon Valley and showcase how amazing our city is to the business world.

You can RSVP for the event here and don’t forget to #BringYourSoul!

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The number of startups in Memphis at any given time may surprise you. In light of that number, there is a wide selection of local career and business meetups that are perfect for professionals in many different types of business.

Real Estate

If you’re trying to make your mark on the real estate market in Memphis, why not get your name out there by attending meetups? After all, the Memphis market has been trending up, thanks in no small part to the great vibe our city offers. 

The thriving real estate market has brought together a number of people in the industry at meetups. For instance, the 901 Real Estate Investors meetup has over 600 members who get together to share local knowledge. Attendees have a millionaire mindset and the drive to get to the top—and best of all, it’s a free meetup group.

Startups

Businesspeople in other sectors who are trying to get their brands off the ground may find inspiration at groups like the Startup Grind Memphis meetup. Founders, influencers and other entrepreneurial veterans make connections here, inspiring the next wave of Memphis startups. The Memphis chapter is one of 300 associated Startup Grind groups worldwide and gets support from Google for Entrepreneurs.

Alternatively, Startup and Grow is a meetup group for those looking to grow their business. Networking at this group’s monthly meetings can give you strategies and tactics from those who have come up through the Memphis startup ranks, as well as the inspiration to keep pushing.

Women of Memphis

Female business owners in Memphis have their own thing, and they can find support through a couple of different networking groups.

For instance, Jobs Hatchery Women takes a three-pronged approach to helping female business owners of Memphis thrive. Building faith, clarifying vision and managing cash flow are the driving forces behind this group, which shares ideas and resources to strengthen members and their businesses.

The Founding Moms Exchange is another networking group dedicated to women in Memphis. The best part? You don’t need to be a business owner to take part. Developing your own network of Memphis moms is at the forefront, along with talking about families.

Other significant Startups

While many of the business networking groups and meetups in Memphis are geared toward those actively building a future for the community, some are simply dedicated to helping people get a foot in the door.

The Memphis Job Search Support group is one such collective, with a focus on helping its members change their employment status. Share job search strategies and get support from fellow Memphians in the same boat.

In addition, why not polish up those public speaking skills with the Memphis Toastmasters Meetup? Here, members learn to deliver powerful, persuasive speeches while networking with like-minded individuals throughout Memphis.

Find the complete meetup calendar on the Memphis meetup page.

Career and business meetups in Memphis

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One of the hottest landing spots for recent graduates is Memphis. This unique, soulful city has become a hub of innovation and growth for a wide range of companies that do business on both a national and worldwide scale.

Business Insider recently published its list of 2017’s highest-paying entry-level jobs, which included a number of positions analogous to employers in Memphis. Salary data was computed by sifting through job profiles and postings with LinkedIn’s salary tool.

Operations engineer

The world hub of FedEx’s global operations calls Memphis home and employs a wide range of local engineers. Operations engineers focus on solving problems using scientific methods, and as you would assume, they are a major part of FedEx’s largely logistical operation.

Much of FedEx’s tactical planning and engineering is carried out by operational engineers who are dedicated to planning, organizing and controlling the company’s global services in the most efficient and effective way possible. Fiscal year and long-range planning are also handled by these engineers.

Insight and Aramark are two other major employers in the Memphis market that utilize the services of operations engineers, with the latter leveraging engineers to develop and deploy its facilities management program.

Data scientist

What’s inside a number can help businesses run more efficiently and effectively. Collecting, analyzing, curating and integrating this information is the job of a data scientist.

Although healthcare may not be the first industry that comes to mind in connection with data scientists, the Memphis-based St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital utilizes data science to mine and model data for drug screening experiments, lead development and drug repurposing projects. Ultimately, data scientists at St. Jude work with chemical and biological data to drive research forward.

ServiceMaster is another major Memphis employer that utilizes data scientists in creating a roadmap for the company’s future and developing ServiceMaster’s unique vision.

Investment banking analyst

Positions in investment banking took the top spot on Business Insider‘s list. Analysts in this field cull and analyze financial data to better monitor investment portfolios for individuals and businesses, making an average of $105,000 at the entry level.

One of the top landing spots for investment banking analysts in Memphis is Duncan-Williams. Tracing its history back to regional municipal bond firms, Duncan-Williams has grown into one of the largest female-owned investment banking firms in the nation. Despite its size, it has remained focused on operating with a small-business culture, making it popular with recent graduates.

Memphis has become a national destination for both employers and those seeking jobs after graduation. Located in a right-to-work state with a relatively low cost of living, Memphis offers numerous workforce advantages that will continue to lead growth across the board for years to come.

Look at Business Insider’s complete list here, while more information about Memphis and its target industries can be found here.

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Whether we’re talking about community-based startups or new businesses with high-growth potential, Memphis entrepreneurs have a friend in the form of Entrepreneurship-Powered Innovation Center, better known as EPICenter Memphis.

The non-profit organization, located in Co-Work Memphis in the heart of the city’s Cooper-Young neighborhood, helps entrepreneurs conceive, launch and scale their businesses.

EPICenter has become a hub of the Greater Memphis entrepreneurial movement by connecting existing entrepreneurs and those who want to launch a business with helpful partner organizations and resources across the region.

When you step into their welcoming, colorful space, you immediately feel the energy and excitement of connectivity and creativity happening in the Bluff City. You’re surrounded not only by the supportive, passionate EPICenter team, but by Memphis creatives from all backgrounds and walks of life, working together to enrich the city by infusing its economy with new business models for a sustainably robust future.

The organization and its partners provide programs, workshops, office hours, networking events, co-working spaces and more to ensure everyone from tech startups to makers and artisans to community based small businesses across a wealth of industries and stages of growth have what they need to prosper. EPICenter also connects Memphis-based entrepreneurs to companies and individuals interested in supporting them as customers, investors or mentors.

Memphis is a city of ideas – from our pioneering place in music history and status as a continuing creative force in that field to our innovation in the fields of healthcare, medical device development, agriculture and logistics.

As Memphians say, we hustle – we grit and we grind. That applies both to our beloved basketball teams and our entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“Memphis has a gritty and innovative culture, which enables an entrepreneurial movement that’s catalyzing transformational growth here,” said Leslie Smith, president and CEO of EPICenter. “While the history of entrepreneurship runs deep — from Elvis, Sun Studios, and Stax, to Holiday Inn, AutoZone, and FedEx — we’re seeing new technologies in agriculture, logistics, medical devices, home services, and social innovation succeed and grow roots here. Beyond technology, our artists, designers, makers, chefs, musicians, and shopkeepers around Memphis are the heart and soul of our creative small business community. Most importantly, however, Memphis intentionally supports and attracts entrepreneurs who reflect the diversity of our city, and we are a more vibrant and innovative community because of that.”

EPICenter and its partners – which include Start Co., The Memphis Chamber, Memphis BioWorks Foundation and the Black Business Association of Memphis — share a common goal of creating a robust and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Memphis to service the Mid-South region. The organization hopes to help create 500 companies and 1,000 entrepreneurs by 2024, through four core areas of support: idea creation, development, funding and growth.

To date, they’ve served more than 250 entrepreneurs, helped create or incubate at least 116 companies, which have created more than 150 jobs, and helped raise more than $25 million in capital.

EPICenter Memphis will offer a wealth of opportunities for budding local entrepreneurs in 2018. Their 2017 events included angel investment mixers, mixers for entrepreneurs to get to know, collaborate with and support one another, educational sessions called “So You Think You Want To Be An Entrepreneur,” and “Rock Star Office Hours,” which bring in experts in the fields of public relations, social media and accounting for free one-on-one sessions to guide founders.

If you’re considering starting a business and need a launchpad, EPICenter can be your co-pilot. Give them a shout, check out their wealth of workshops and networking opportunities, and get involved in building a brighter, innovative economic future for Memphis. Definitely follow them on Facebook.

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I’m a social butterfly, but sometimes meeting people can be downright awkward and can often leave you with a night of drinking entirely too much Memphis Toddy from Old Dominick’s while continuing your Netflix marathon of Friends episodes with Webster, your three legged cat.

Luckily, Memphis has a slew of opportunities for young professionals – both creative and non – to network and strengthen their image in the city’s growing professional landscape. While we aren’t going to cover every wonderful group out there, here are a few of the coolest opportunities available. And whether you’re new in town or just looking to branch out and meet people, all are welcome here.

Creative Works

Whether it’s a free movie screening or a relaxing get-together at one of Memphis’s highly popular bars, coffee shops, or restaurants, Creative Works brings the creative community together.

The mission of Creative Works is to empower Memphis-based creatives to strengthen the creative community through meet ups, workshops, and an annual design conference whose attendees and presenters are from all over the world. Check out their Facebook or website for more details.

Undercurrent

From exceptional speakers who can rapid fire present on laugh-out-loud concepts in 5 minutes to just catching up with old friends while meeting new ones, Undercurrent is the tribe to follow for any social butterfly looking to mingle and mix with Memphis’ young professionals population. Each month, Undercurrent brings together the some of the most interesting young professionals from a variety of industries under one roof for a night of drinks, networking, and exploration of a cool Memphis venue. Some of their events, especially Ignite, fill up fast, so follow their Facebook to get the latest updates and RSVP notices for upcoming events.

Soundcheck

If career advancement is what you’re after, then Soundcheck is definitely an organization to put on your list. As the Young Professionals extension of the Greater Memphis Chamber, Soundcheck’s purpose is to connect budding professionals with business leaders and opportunities through fun and informative programming. From mixers and clean-up projects to shaking hands and swapping business cards with the top executives from around the city, Soundcheck puts young professionals in-the-know and helps you navigate the business economy here in Memphis. Learn more on the Chamber’s Soundcheck page.

The post 3 Organizations that connect young professionals in Memphis appeared first on We Are Memphis.