
The Life Science Mentor Network
Since 2015, the mentor network has successfully connected seasoned mentors with exciting new companies to leverage the wealth of knowledge available in our state’s larger accelerator network, all while supporting our startup economy.
The Life Science Mentor Network also provides unique access to industry specific assets, networking opportunities with BioTN’s members and partners and opportunities to participate in BioTN and Launch Tennessee programming.
The BioTN Network uses a video conference service to engage and connect mentors and entrepreneurs across the State of Tennessee and beyond. Of course, in- person meetings are encouraged when possible.

ELEMENTS
INTAKE & EVALUATION. The entrepreneur gains immediate feedback from a panel of seasoned life science mentors on the general business plan and strategy. In this phase, the company is evaluated for readiness to enter the program completely or remain in a “pre- intake” phase. If accepted into the program, an EIR (Entrepreneur in Residence) and a team of mentors are assigned to the company.
MARKETING. The entrepreneur is mentored in preparation to present their pitch to a panel of industry marketing experts that focuses on the company’s strategy and market analysis.
FINANCE. The entrepreneur is mentored in preparation to present their pitch to a panel of industry financial experts that focuses on the company’s economics.
FINAL COACHING. The complete business model and pitch are refined in light of all feedback received.
FINAL PANEL AND PROGRAM GRADUATION. A formal presentation is given to a panel of mentors, including other strategic partners, customers, investors and industry experts.
After completing the program, startups have an investable pitch, a rock-solid business model and a plan to develop and scale their company. These tools will position Tennessee’s life science entrepreneurs to raise capital, seek funding from SBIR and grow their technologies.
Steven King
Steven leads the Life Science Mentor Network program. With more than 30 years of experience across the healthcare industry, King has a thorough understanding of the early stages companies must navigate including ideation, business formation, strategy, fund raising, regulatory and commercialization. King’s prior experience as a senior executive leader for Insight Health Corporation, Eli Lilly & Company and Cardinal Health, as well as his previous work in six start-up companies, has uniquely positioned him to guide early-stage companies towards operational success. King previously served as the President, Chief Executive Officer and Board Director of Restore Medical Solutions, a venture-financed manufacturer of sterile processing technology based in Memphis, TN.