By Jeff Brown, CEO and Founder at The Biz Foundry and totally biased writer.
I love where I live so I must admit, I am totally biased. With that said, I will try to give as many verifiable facts as possible on why I think every entrepreneur should want to live and grow their business here.
Entrepreneurs seeking an ideal location to launch or grow their businesses should look no further than the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee. Nestled between major metropolitan areas like Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, this area offers a unique combination of affordability, access to resources, and an exceptional quality of life. Here’s why the Upper Cumberland region is a prime destination for entrepreneurs:
1. Lower Cost of Living and Doing Business
One of the most significant advantages of the Upper Cumberland region is its low cost of living. Compared to larger cities, housing, utilities, and general expenses are more affordable, allowing entrepreneurs to allocate more resources toward growing their ventures. Business costs, including office space, utilities, and payroll, are also more manageable, making it easier for startups to gain traction without financial strain.
2. Thriving Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
The Upper Cumberland region is home to a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem supported by business incubators, co-working spaces, and mentorship programs. Organizations such as The Biz Foundry, one of 8 Entrepreneur Centers in the LaunchTN network across the state. Our Business Resource Collective, a collaboration between The Biz Foundry, the Upper Cumberland Development District, the TN Small Business Development Center, and the TN Tech Center for Rural Innovation offers resources, networking opportunities, and support for small business owners and startups.
Entrepreneurs can find access to funding, training programs, and community initiatives designed to foster innovation and business growth. The Upper Cumberland Investment Alliance is a local angel investment fund to serve companies within 50 miles of Cookeville.
3. Proximity to Major Cities
Being centrally located between Nashville (70 mi.), Knoxville (100 mi., Go Vols!), and Chattanooga (99 mi) provides entrepreneurs with easy access to larger markets while still enjoying the benefits of a smaller, more affordable community. This proximity allows for networking with investors, attending industry events, and tapping into larger customer bases without the high costs associated with operating in a major metro area. Nashville International Airport is just 70 minutes away.
4. Access to Tennessee Tech University
Tennessee Tech University, located in Cookeville and an engineering powerhouse, serves as a valuable asset to the region’s business community. The university provides a pipeline of skilled talent, research collaborations, and business development programs. Entrepreneurs can take advantage of TTU’s resources, including startup support, internship programs, research partnerships, and continuing education opportunities to help build and sustain their ventures.
5. Exceptional Quality of Life
Beyond business advantages, the Upper Cumberland region offers an unparalleled quality of life. The area is rich in outdoor recreational opportunities, with access to state parks, hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. Entrepreneurs looking for work-life balance will appreciate the region’s scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and tight-knit community atmosphere. Whether it’s kayaking on Center Hill Lake, fishing or skiing on Dale Hollow Lake, hiking in Fall Creek Falls State Park, or simply enjoying the peaceful outdoors, the Upper Cumberland region provides an ideal setting for both personal and professional fulfillment.
The stress melts away when you walk your dog through 500 acre farms after a hard day. (No poop bags needed in the country!)
Shopping and restaurants are plentiful. Make sure you visit some of the local favorites like Ralph’s Donuts, Meg’s Bread, or Cream City Ice Cream.
Yes, the region has fiber to almost every home and most of us even wear shoes!
Conclusion-Work Where You Want to Live
For entrepreneurs looking for a strategic, affordable, and resource-rich location, the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee stands out as a top choice. With a lower cost of living, a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, proximity to major cities, access to Tennessee Tech University, and a high quality of life, this region provides everything needed to turn a business idea into a thriving enterprise. If you’re ready to take the leap into entrepreneurship, consider making the Upper Cumberland region your home base for success. And of course, you get to live where I do!
By Jeff Brown, CEO and Founder at The Biz Foundry and totally biased writer.
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