K E E P
Y O U R
I D E A S
L O C A L
K E E P Y O U R I D E A S L O C A L
OUR MISSION
The Patton Foundation exists to champion entrepreneurship across Tennessee by equipping bold thinkers with the mentorship and support they need to turn big ideas into lasting impact. We invest in the next generation of founders, fuel local innovation, and build strong communities.
When we invest in entrepreneurs, we help communities flourish.
E N T R E P R E N E U R
C O M P E T I T I O N S
E N T R E P R E N E U R
S T O R I E S
E N T R E P R E N E U R
R E S E A R C H
OUR WHY
at the Patton Foundation
Entrepreneurs are the engine of every thriving community. Small businesses—those with fewer than 500 employees—make up 99.9% of all U.S. businesses and create nearly two-thirds of all net new jobs.
In Tennessee, small businesses support over 1.1 million jobs and account for nearly half of all private-sector employment. When you support local innovation, you’re fueling job creation, community resilience, and economic growth where it matters most.
The Patton Foundation equips young leaders to think entrepreneurially, navigate a rapidly changing economy, and lead with impact in business, nonprofit, and civic innovation. Keep your ideas local. Let’s build a stronger Tennessee—one founder at a time.
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