STARTUP FINALISTS
Creative Soulz Printing
Thomas Kelly
Creative Soulz Printing provides affordable, high-quality custom printing solutions, focusing on branding for small businesses. Products include business cards, banners, labels, large format graphics, and promotional items. The company’s mission is to empower entrepreneurs to effectively market themselves, fostering their growth and success in a competitive market.
RECENT MILESTONES
- Increased revenue by almost 250% from 2022-2023
- Voted “Best of Music City” in the “Printing” category for 2023
- Expanded business to include large format graphics and promotional products
- 2023 ReGenerate Grant Fund recipient, presented by Twendé Accelerator
A NOTE FROM THE FOUNDER
I started Creative Soulz Printing out of a deep passion for helping others, particularly small businesses, succeed. Before entrepreneurship came to my mind, I was creating programs for my church and simple event invitations. Witnessing the struggles that many entrepreneurs face in branding and marketing, I saw an opportunity to provide affordable, high-quality custom printing solutions. My goal is to empower these businesses to thrive in a competitive marketplace. By supporting their growth, I hope to foster economic opportunities and build a stronger, more inclusive community.” – Thomas Kelley
Killjoy
Stephanie Styll
killjoyclub.com
After quitting drinking in late 2020, Stephanie Styll found that alcohol-free beverages allowed her to keep the joy of socializing. However, these drinks were hard to find. Inspired, she created Killjoy, a dedicated alcohol-free beverage shop that offers a wide variety of options for those who want to socialize without the hangover.
RECENT MILESTONES
- Won a Best of Nashville award in its first year
- Hosted over 75 alcohol-free events
- Featured in Wine Enthusiast as one of the top 10 non-alcoholic bottle shops in the U.S.
- Served drinks backstage at CMA Fest in 2023 and 2024
A NOTE FROM THE FOUNDER
“I’m on a mission to redefine what it means to “drink,” particularly in Nashville, a city now internationally famous for drinking culture. Many who choose to drink less—or not at all—often feel excluded or isolated because so many adult activities are centered around alcohol. I’ve experienced this firsthand, which is a major reason I started my business. At Killjoy, we’re normalizing alternative beverages, offering sophisticated and delicious options, and hosting completely alcohol-free events and parties, making inclusive socializing fun for everyone.” – Stephanie Styll
The Modern Dog Company
Danielle Sweigert
The Modern Dog Company is a boutique pet supply store dedicated to enhancing dogs’ well-being through a holistic approach to nutrition. The store offers a curated selection of high-quality food, supplements, treats, and more, along with products from small businesses. They also have their line of modern pet products for modern pet parents.
RECENT MILESTONES
- Products are sold in 118 stores domestically and globally
- Matched the average revenue of an established pet supply franchise (over 200 stores) in just the second year of business
- Achieved $694,600 in revenue during the first full year of business in 2023
A NOTE FROM THE FOUNDER
“I have always dreamed of owning my own business, especially one related to my passion for animals, particularly dogs. In the 6th grade, I wrote that I wanted to own a pet store—information I rediscovered when my mom sent me my old time capsule right before we opened our doors. My main goal is to enhance dogs’ health and longevity while fostering a welcoming community. Beyond retail, we support rescues and shelters through education, advocacy, and donations. I hope as we grow, we can continue making a larger impact in that community.” – Danielle Sweigert
GROWTH FINALISTS
The Nashville Black Market
Carlos Partee
The Nashville Black Market empowers Black businesses and entrepreneurs by providing a platform to showcase their products and services. The market hosts family-friendly events that bring together culture, commerce, and entertainment.
RECENT MILESTONES
- Grew the vendor database from 15 to over 1,000 vendors nationwide
- Generated over $3 million in revenue for Black businesses in Nashville from 2020-2023
- Partnered with local organizations and nonprofits to strengthen community ties
- Outsourced vendor relationships to government and private companies
- Opened a recording and podcast studio for youth and disadvantaged artists
A NOTE FROM THE FOUNDER
“We started a Black-owned marketplace to empower businesses by providing a platform to showcase their products and services. When we first started we both had retail businesses and had nowhere for us to promote and sell our products. Our goal is to foster economic growth, support entrepreneurship, and create opportunities within the Black community. This marketplace not only promotes business success but also brings together family, friends, and culture, creating a vibrant community where traditions are celebrated and connections are strengthened.” – Carlos Partee
The Cordelle
Nealy Glenn, Leigh Watson, & Chandra Watson
The Cordelle is an event space located in Downtown Nashville, housed in a historic Victorian home built in 1856. The venue combines historic charm with modern amenities, making it a unique location for events.
RECENT MILESTONES
- Celebrated 10 years in business in 2024
- Expanded the brand by opening two other event spaces in the last 5 years: Saint Elle (2020) & Estelle (2024)
- Launched STE Mobile Bar Services in 2024
- Hosts over 150 events annually
A NOTE FROM THE FOUNDERS
I was fortunate to live and learn from the best in New York for 13 years. I wanted to open a world class bakery in my hometown to show my fellow Nashvillians the beauty of a modern scratch bakery. I also wanted to bring the skill / knowledge to those who don’t have the opportunity to learn in New York. Ultimately, I am in the smile business- I am driven by people enjoying my life’s work.” – Nealy Glenn
D’Andrews Bakery & Cafe
David Andrews & Matt Paco
dandrewsbakery.com
D’Andrews Bakery & Cafe is a modern American bakery and sandwich shop with a Southern twist, offering a mix of Southern and French-inspired baked goods. Located in downtown Nashville, it’s known for its delicious offerings and community presence.
RECENT MILESTONES
- Increased staff from 9 to 16 employees over the past year
- Sales increased by 40% in 2024 compared to the same period in 2023
- Instagram following grew from 5,000 to over 14,600 followers in one year
A NOTE FROM THE FOUNDERS
After honing his craft in New York for 13 years, David Andrews returned to his hometown to open a world-class bakery. His goal is to bring the skills and knowledge he acquired in New York to Nashville, creating a welcoming community and making people smile through his creations.
To see other 2024 finalists, visit our NEXT Awards page or browse news.
