Franklin will soon be the newest home of a national program to engage, educate and connect local entrepreneurs.

Founded by the Kauffman Foundation, 1 Million Cups is based on the notion that entrepreneurs network and discover solutions over a million cups of coffee. The free, monthly gathering helps build startup communities on a grassroots level.

1 Million Cups Franklin Falls is set to host a soft launch on Wednesday, November 1, 2017, from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM at Take Root Coworking, located at 359 Central Street in downtown Franklin. Entrepreneurs, innovators, funders and other interested community members are invited to attend this event along the inaugural event on Wednesday, January 3, 2018.

The program’s model is consistent across the country: On a Wednesday morning, two early-stage startups present their companies to an audience of mentors, advisers and other entrepreneurs. Each founder presents for six minutes, followed by a 20-minute question-and-answer session with the audience.

In each 1 Million Cups city, local entrepreneurs drive the program as community organizers. Volunteering for the leadership roles in Franklin are: Jo Brown, Taylor D’Italia, Oscar Gala Grano, Reece Grano, Jon Jones, Marty Parichand, Theresa Pinto and Todd Workman.

The program is currently accepting any business less than five years old that wants to present to the audience. Each company will be videotaped and have the opportunity to present at other 1 Million Cups across the country.

You can learn more about 1 Million Cups Franklin Falls by visiting www.1millioncups.com/franklinfalls or following the program on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.