Thomas E. Nelson

Dr. Thomas E. Nelson is an Associate Professor of Management at the Mitchell College of Business, University of South Alabama. He serves as Director of Student Competitions at the Melton Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, focusing on advancing entrepreneurial accessibility and success through innovative frameworks.

• Education: PhD in Entrepreneurship (University of Louisville), MBA in Entrepreneurship (Ball State University), BS in Entrepreneurship (Ball State University)

Research Interests:

• Entrepreneurial design theory
• Solopreneurship and side hustling
• Crowdfunding mechanisms
• Forgiving business models
• Public policy impacts on entrepreneurship

Publication Trends: Recent works emphasize educational frameworks, design-centric entrepreneurship, and crowdfunding dynamics. His research bridges theoretical models (e.g., 4-stage iterative opportunity development) with practical barriers and performance metrics.

Teaching: Offers courses in creativity & innovation (MGT 345) and new venture creation (MGT 465).

Location: Office in MCOB 116, Mobile, AL.