TSBDC at Southwest taps NaShawn Branch as executive director

SPECIAL FROM TSBDC

Nashawn BranchCongratulations to Dr. NaShawn Branch on his appointment as the new executive director of the Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) at Southwest Sept. 16, 2021. 

Branch has more than 10 years of experience in the field of entrepreneurship. He is passionate about helping small business owners succeed and deeply understands the challenges they face. Over the years, Branch has utilized his expertise to grow small businesses, advising more than 500 small-to-medium-sized businesses, including 54 start-ups and raising more than $4.5 million in capital infusion. He has published research in Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship and believes there is a direct correlation between successful small businesses and thriving communities. 

“Small businesses control the economic landscape of the community,” Branch said. “I’m excited to work with the staff at TSBDC at Southwest to provide the resources local entrepreneurs need and to further the economic growth in our region.” 

Branch also has taught business classes as an adjunct instructor at the Fogelman College of Business and Economics at the University of Memphis and LeMoyne-Owen College, Division of Business and Economic Development. He received a Doctor of Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship from Jones International University, Summa Cum Laude, and Bachelor of Science degree in Communications from Bowie State University.  

Welcome, Dr. Branch!