PYA has a long history of celebrating and supporting entrepreneurialism, and in October, the firm hosted a panel discussion to enrich the region’s startup culture.
On October 2, PYA hosted “Raising Capital in Knoxville: A Look Behind the Curtain,” 2-4 p.m. at UT Research Park at Cherokee Farm. The panel discussion was part of Innov865 Week. It was free of charge and open to all registered attendees.
The discussion was moderated by Brandon Bruce, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Market Square Ventures, Knoxville’s newest venture capital firm; former managing director of the Techstars Industries of the Future Accelerator; and mentor for entrepreneurs across the region.
The panelists included entrepreneurs who have been successful in raising capital in Knoxville:
- John Derrick, Authentrics AI, finalist for the 2024 PYA Ballard Innovation Award
- Britton Garrett, iO Urology, winner of the 2023 PYA Ballard Innovation Award
- Andrew Hanna, Safire, winner of the 2024 PYA Ballard Innovation Award
- Corey Tyree, Trillium Renewable Chemicals, finalist for the 2023 PYA Ballard Innovation Award
“At PYA, entrepreneurialism is at our core. It’s part of our firm’s DNA,” said Marty Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We’re honored to again be a part of Innov865 Week, helping the region’s startup community gain insights from fellow entrepreneurs who have succeeded in fundraising in our area.”
The panel discussion included remarks from Brown and Tom Ballard, PYA Chief Alliance Officer. Audience members were invited to ask questions during the discussion.
Presented by the Innov865 Alliance, Innov865 Week develops, supports, and promotes the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Knoxville region. This year, the event is September 27-October 4 and offers many sessions, including the signature event, Startup Day. Through five tracks, the week celebrates Knoxville as a place for entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses and increase access to capital.
PYA is a proud sponsor of the Innov865 Week Investor track and a founding member of the Innov865 Alliance.
PYA helps entrepreneurs through tax and accounting services and valuation consulting. Contact PYA for assistance.
Learn more about the annual PYA Ballard Innovation Award, the largest gift of cash and in-kind services available to East Tennessee entrepreneurs and startups.
