WEEKLY NEWS & EVENTS
Grand Challenges
From UT President Randy Boyd:
In Tennessee we find ourselves faced with seemingly intractable problems. Issues that are characterized by complexity, varied perspectives and obscured paths forward. We have come to label these problems as Grand Challenges.
These Grand Challenges require collaboration to conquer. With five campuses and two statewide institutes, the University of Tennessee is in a unique position to work together to make an impact toward overcoming these challenges.
In order for the University to shift attention and resources to some of the most pressing statewide problems, we must first define these issues and establish consensus across the state as to the importance and feasibility of solving them.
To this end, I am requesting your opinions and insights on what our most pressing challenges are and where our priorities related to these issues should be placed.
With your help, our process will look like this:
  1. Define the most pressing problems of our day.
  2. Prioritize activity based on existing resources and expertise.
  3. Build collaborations to find solutions and improve the lives of Tennesseans everywhere.

We believe that together with the people and communities of Tennessee we can solve these difficult challenges and create an extraordinary future for our state. Please fill out this survey and let’s get started! 
Input.
For those who are curious, today's subject line referenced this 1986 summer classic "Short Circuit" with Johnny No. 5. Click the video link to view the clip.
Workshare Program
Public Chapter No. 1086 allows businesses to better weather economic downturns by sharing costs with the state unemployment insurance fund to keep employee salaries in times of reductions in employee work hours. It allows for employee access to reduced unemployment compensation benefits.  

Read more on how a new Tennessee law could save jobs.
High Performers
You will learn how to be intentional in building high performing teams by identifying challenges teams face and the qualities that help teams work well together and get results.

Workshop conducted by by Melissa Spangler, Clear Leader Group on August 3 at 8:30 a.m. at the Blount Partnership.

Get Noticed
Sponsorship opportunities are available for upcoming Blount Partnership events. Now is a chance to be part of these community events. Click the link below to learn more and sign up to be a sponsor.
Don't Fly Solo
On August 26 from 8-10 a.m., Sky City Entrepreneur Center members and staff talk connections: why they're important, how to make them, and where to go for help along the way. This Soft Skills session is held on-site at the Sky City Entrepreneur Center located at 608 Ellis Ave., Maryville.

Small Business Resources
The Tennessee Small Business Development Center hosts a myriad of online training webinars to assist in all facets of businesses.
View a full list of upcoming workshops and trainings with the SBDC or request a free advising session.
Volunteers Needed
Crew members are a vital part of making sure the GSM Hot Air Balloon Festival comes together as planned. Duties include:
  • Time commitment from 3-10 p.m.
  • Physical labor required
  • Unloading & inflating the balloon
  • Standing the balloon upright
  • Assisting balloon riders
  • Putting the balloon away
  • Access to hospitality room for snacks and drinks
  • Hot Air Balloon T-shirt
  • Community service hours approved 
7/12-14 at Townsend Visitor Center
7/12 at Sky City Entrepreneur Center
7/12 Webinar Series
7/15-16 at Talley Ho Inn
7/15 at GSM Heritage Center
7/15-18 at Townsend Visitor Center
7/16 at GSM Heritage Center
7/16 at Townsend Artisan Guild
Full List of Events
Women in Business
Join our next Women in Business Meeting on July 18 at noon at the Blount Partnership. Come ready to share, come ready for self-examination and come ready for fun! You may bring your lunch if you would like. 
Save the Date
July 18 -- Women in Business
July 28 -- Coffee Club
August 25 -- Coffee Club
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS