Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) has teamed up with the Nashville Entrepreneur Center to create the Small Batch – Big Ideas Entrepreneur Network. The network will consist of a small cohort of entrepreneurs that will convene monthly for networking and monitorship experiences.

All Small Batch events will be virtual. They include networking opportunities, expert-led webinars, and direct access to MMNA executives for in-depth, one-on-one, co-learning time.

“Nashville is a special place, fueled by a bold, creative energy that is especially apparent in its entrepreneur community,” said MMNA Chief Operating Officer Mark Chaffin. “Through this partnership, Mitsubishi Motors helps to celebrate individuals who choose to do things differently and think outside the box. Working in concert with the Nashville Entrepreneur Center is our tangible way of showing that.”

The announcement comes as Mitsubishi gears up for a rapid release of new and refreshed models over the course of the next year.

Entrepreneurs and small businesses can apply to be part of the Small Batch – Big Ideas Entrepreneur Network by clicking here.

From the applicants roster, the partners will narrow the competition to 10 finalists. Those finalists will then pitch for a slot in the network during a live, online pitch competition on Oct. 23. The top five pitches will secure a slot in the Network, and a $2,000 prize will be awarded for the best overall pitch.

At the end of the year-long program, Mitsubishi will conduct a second contest, this time on social media, asking its followers to select a “fan favorite” business. The winner of the second and final competition will receive a six-month Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross loan.

“Our team worked closely with Mitsubishi Motors to build a completely unique program for the Nashville entrepreneur and small business community,” said EC CEO Jane Allen. “This type of support, access and exposure is more critical now than ever, and we are proud to partner with Mitsubishi to deliver that.”