NASHVILLE (AP) — The president of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce says second-stage companies will drive economic recovery.

Such companies have survived the startup stage but have not yet reached maturity.

Ralph Schulz said these companies are growing and creating jobs, but face challenges as they transition from an entrepreneurial culture to a more structured environment.

With growing businesses in mind, the chamber will begin a new educational series next year, "Propel: Growing From Entrepreneur to Enterprise."