DISTRICT ONE
DIGITAL
IMPACT REPORT
2024
Client
Spotlight
Patrice Harris
Named State Star
Patrice Harris, Center Director for Mississippi SBDC at Ole Miss, has been recognized as the State Star for her steadfast commitment to empowering small businesses in north Mississippi. With more than 30 years of expertise in finance, government, and economic development, Harris has spearheaded transformative programs that strengthen entrepreneurs and communities, highlighting the Mississippi SBDC Network's crucial impact on economic growth across the state.
DISTRICT ONE
Results
Clients Counseled
Capital Formation
Business Starts
Jobs Created
Sales Growth
The RISE Center at Ole Miss
Guides 13 Startups
to National Innovation Showcase
One year after debuting with four companies at Encountering Innovation, the RISE Center expanded its impact in 2024 by sending 13 companies, positioning Mississippi as the leading state for participation.
Encountering Innovation (EI) connects innovators, entrepreneurs, and technology companies with federal agencies and industry leaders through private pitch sessions and targeted matchmaking. Unlike events focused solely on defense, EI spans industries like healthcare, cybersecurity, energy, construction, and electronics, offering businesses a direct path to commercialization and government contracts. With agencies actively seeking innovative solutions, EI provides a unique opportunity for companies to showcase their technologies, gain valuable insights, and establish key partnerships that drive growth and real-world impact.
Mississippi SBDC Network
Welcomes Jerry Martin
to the RISE Center at Ole Miss Team
In 2024, Jerry Martin joined the Mississippi SBDC Network's RISE Center at Ole Miss team as the Technology Commercialization Lead, as well as the University of Mississippi's Office of Technology Commercialization, through a collaborative partnership.
With a background in international business, intellectual property, and corporate training, Jerry brings over 25 years of experience in higher education and industry. He holds a B.S. in Liberal Studies, an MBA in Global Management, an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, and a J.D. specializing in intellectual property. Having spent 20 years in Japan as a corporate trainer, he offers valuable expertise in global markets and commercialization strategies. Outside of work, he enjoys gardening, fishing, and caring for his rescued pets. Fun fact—he has climbed Mt. Fuji 10 times!