KC housing tech startup builds momentum, refines business model in Nashville accelerator

As Shapree’ Marshall prepares her final pitch for Twendé 2024’s demo day in June, the Kansas City founder and Pipeline Pathfinder already is seeing results from the six-month Nashville-based program.

Her startup, A Traveled Path Homes, was among 56 companies led by founders of color that were named to the Twendé cohort in January. The accelerator focuses on helping minority businesses grow their professional networks and scale their businesses.

“This opportunity marks a significant milestone for A Traveled Path Homes,” said Marshall, founder of A Traveled Path Homes. “Being selected for the Twendé 2024 Cohort is a strong validation of our mission to support traveling medical professionals by ensuring they have comfortable and reliable accommodations. This selection signifies that our company is gaining substantial recognition and momentum within the industry, providing us with an invaluable platform to expand our reach and impact.”

A Traveled Path Homes is a Digital Sandbox KC-backed tech startup in the lodging industry, offering a solution to health care employees who are challenged with finding safe, affordable and convenient lodging for their mid-term rental needs.

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Marshall was tapped to join the 2023 Pipeline Pathfinder class in January 2023. A year later, she successfully joined Twendé, which means “let’s go” in Kiswahili, a Swahili language.

“Since January 2024, our participation in the Twendé program has provided us with invaluable mentorship from industry leaders, essential resources, and unparalleled networking opportunities,” said Marshall. “We have built our product with key players at the table, ensuring it meets the real needs of traveling medical professionals.”

“We are particularly excited about the potential partnerships with many healthcare companies that will be present at the upcoming Customer Connection Pitch Day,” she continued. “This program has been instrumental in refining our business model and enhancing our services, moving us closer to our goal of becoming a trusted partner for traveling medical professionals.”

The 2024 Twendé cohort participated in 15 modules of on-demand curriculum, a minimum of six facilitated peer group and one-on-one coaching sessions, 10 monthly themed calls that are made up of Roleplay Labs, Coaching Q&A’s, and CEO Circles.

“Building a thriving community of business owners of color isn’t just about diversity; it’s about economic vitality,” said Sam Davidson, CEO of Nashville Entrepreneur Center, the non-profit organizer of Twendé, founded in 2010 by business leaders to support the next generation of entrepreneurs and to celebrate the spirit and tenacity of the entrepreneurial community.

 “When we unite, share our experiences, and create opportunities for growth, we strengthen the foundation of our state’s economy, making it more resilient and inclusive for all,” he added.

With its time in Twendé nearly complete, A Traveled Path Homes is actively expanding its network of property owners and partnering with hospitals to ensure top-notch accommodations for traveling medical professionals, Marshall said.

“We are dedicated to enhancing our platform to provide a seamless and exceptional user experience,” she continued. “Our participation in the Twendé program marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for us, and we remain committed to making a significant positive impact in the healthcare community.”