About this Event
Discover the stories behind this year's NEXT Awards finalists—from traumatic brain injuries to 10-year fights to bring breakthrough ideas to life. These aren't just award nominees. They're proof that entrepreneurship feels impossible alone but becomes inevitable together. [Read Their Stories →]
The NEXT Awards honor Nashville's most accomplished entrepreneurs in an evening of exceptional celebration.
What awaits you:
A sophisticated cocktail reception with local spirits and artisanal hors d'oeuvres. You'll connect with Nashville's successful founders, investors, and community leaders in beautifully appointed surroundings.
The ceremony showcases entrepreneurs with proven revenue, substantial job creation, and measurable impact. These aren't promising startups—they're established companies.
VIP guests enjoy premium seating, exclusive networking access, and thoughtfully prepared dinner featuring Nashville's culinary excellence.
Why it matters:
Nashville's startup activity has increased fourfold over the past decade. Tonight's honorees represent the next chapter. Some will achieve household recognition. Others will command extraordinary valuations. A select few will transform entire industries.
This is your opportunity to witness greatness before it becomes legend.
Celebrating Exceptional Entrepreneurs
The Nashville Entrepreneur Center’s signature fundraising event celebrates the visionaries and innovators driving our city’s economic growth. From prominent recognition to VIP experiences, we have sponsorship opportunities for companies of all sizes to participate in this uniquely Nashville celebration.
Sponsorship Opportunities
The Awards
The 2025 NEXT Awards will honor companies across six industry categories, with each category having two awards—one for the Startup stage and one for the Growth stage. Additionally, two individual awards will be presented, one in each stage.
Industry Categories:
Healthcare
Financial Services
Music, Sports, Gaming and Entertainment
Products and Services
Real Estate and Construction
Hospitality and Retail
Business Stages:
Startup – In business for 5 years or less
Growth – In business for more than 5 years
Individual Awards:
Startup Entrepreneur of 2025
Growth Entrepreneur of 2025
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Nashville Symphony | Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 1 Symphony Place, Nashville, United States
USD 53.49 to USD 263.49
