Sync Space and East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Research Corporation have collaborated in launching Accelerate Appalachia, a program designed to help advance the region’s entrepreneurs and small business owners who have business traction.

For a bird’s-eye view of the region’s continually expanding and diversifying entrepreneurial ecosystem, click here and/or here.

Accelerate Appalachia’s four elements are a startup accelerator, a micro venture fund, industry-specific mentorship, and access to an intellectual-property commercialization program integrated with Launch Tennessee‘s Technology Transfer Advancement Consortium (TTAC).

ETSU Research Corporation CEO David Golden said in a recent press release that Accelerate Appalachia is designed to create pathways for the region’s talent to develop and grow sustainable businesses that strengthen the Highlands economy.

With such ends in mind, Sync Space and the ETSU Research Corporation have in recent years been building a collaborative network with more than 30 participating government, educational and other nonprofit regional organizations aboard, thus far.

Sync Space President Health Guinn said in today’s press release, “Accelerate Appalachia represents a powerful step forward for our community. By pooling resources, talent, and expertise from across our region, we’re creating a comprehensive ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs and innovators to not only grow but thrive. The Appalachian Highlands is a unique and promising region, and we’re honored to be a part of shaping its future.”