NewGenBeats Entrepreneurship Academy
Empowering Urban Youth for Success in the 21st Century Economy
The Problem
Barriers Affecting Our Communities
Every day, communities face the challenge of youth involvement in crime, especially during out-of-school hours. This issue not only affects the safety and well-being of our neighborhoods but also poses a significant hurdle for the positive development of our young people.
Whether due to lack of access to constructive activities, limited resources, or other barriers, many youths find themselves drawn into harmful behaviors outside of school settings. Identifying and addressing these barriers is crucial to creating safer and more nurturing environments where our youth can thrive and contribute positively to society.
The Solution
NewGen Beats is a Solution
Today’s youth demonstrate resilience and determination to make it through the days.
NewGen Beats Entrepreneurial Academy recognizes the obstacles they face and is here to guide youth in defying societal odds, designing their own pathways, and shaping their futures through entrepreneurial education and opportunity.
At NewGen Beats, we believe in empowering youth to design their own pathways and shape their futures through entrepreneurial education and opportunity. We see ourselves as more than just an academy; we are the rhythm of progress for young entrepreneurs.
OUR AIM – BY 2030
5/50
Introduce entrepreneurship as a youth workforce pathway in 5 U.S. regions and 50 U.S. cities
Engage 2,500 youth in entrepreneurial development
Produce and nurture 1,000 youth-founded businesses
About NewGen Beats
We Believe
In empowering youth to design their own pathways and shape their futures through entrepreneurial education and opportunity. We see ourselves as more than just an academy; we are the rhythm of progress for young entrepreneurs.
Our Mission
To reinforce the significance of making positive choices for personal and professional growth. Through our programs and mentorship, we aim to instill the values of responsibility, integrity, and ambition in our students, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in both business and life.
Our Vision
To be the premier catalyst for economic transformation in urban America by 2030, fostering a nationwide ecosystem of opportunity across 50 U.S. cities. This public-private initiative aims to empower 25,000 young Black men to become entrepreneurs and leaders, driving economic growth, social change, and community revitalization. The program will create safer, more prosperous urban centers, with participants at the forefront of economic innovation and social progress, ultimately transforming communities through enhanced economic mobility and opportunity.
Defying Odds, Designing Futures
About the NewGen Beats Creator
Erica M. Roberts is a decorated executive, business owner, and certified executive and leadership coach with an enthusiasm for discovering and realizing potential for others, specifically pertaining to career change and advancement. During her public service career, Erica amassed a portfolio of organizational development solutions, talent development solutions (including leadership and management training) including serving as a national Training Director for a Federal enforcement agency. Erica participated as a Departmental liaison for a Cross-Agency Priority (CAP) customer service goal, and integrated customer experience into the strategic and operational framework for the U.S. Department of Labor, where she was a performance management leader; she also served for four years as a national Strategic Performance Manager for an enforcement agency. Erica is known for driving results and transforming organizational culture and practices within government agencies. She was approved for Senior Executive Service in 2018.
After leaving federal service, Erica repurposed her expertise in organizational development, capacity building, and program design to found X Is Possible, LLC – a personal and professional development consultancy. As a small business owner, she draws upon over 20 years of experience leading change, developing people, and delivering results to design, develop and implement leadership development programs that benefit civil servants and under-represented populations. Erica is currently the principal consultant and trainer for a Federal leadership development and employee engagement contract, and the principal training for a Maryland state leadership development contract.
Erica holds a Master of Business Administration degree and a Bachelor of Science degree, and is certified in executive coaching and the DISC assessment.
What NewGen Beats will build
The NewGen Beats Entrepreneurial Academy was created to improve workforce And financial outcomes for youth (18 – 24), and deter youth crime through out-of-school activities centered around youth entrepreneurship.
NewGen Beats Entrepreneurial Academy is a 16-week paid work experience program for Black males aged 18-24 who are not currently enrolled in school or formal education. The program will initially target 12 urban centers across the United States.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Our program covers essential topics such as business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and networking skills, ensuring participants are well-prepared to launch and grow their ventures.
Hands-On Experience
Through real-world projects, mentorship from industry experts, and access to resources, students gain practical experience and insights into the entrepreneurial journey.
Networking Opportunities
Participants have the chance to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, successful alumni, and potential investors, expanding their professional network and opening doors to future collaborations.
Ongoing Support
Our commitment doesn't end with the program. Graduates receive continued support, including access to alumni resources, workshops, and funding opportunities to sustain and scale their businesses.
NewGen Beats Ecosystem
Future NGB Entrepreneurs
NewGen Beats Entrepreneurship Academy empowers you to realize your dreams, achieve your goals and gain access to a wealth of resources, support, and opportunities designed to help you succeed in the world.
Our academy is more than just a place of learning; it's a beacon of hope for young people seeking to carve their own paths and shape their futures. By providing comprehensive support and resources, we empower participants to harness their entrepreneurial spirit and turn their ideas into tangible success stories.
Through our tailored program, participants gain access to a transformative experience that not only equips them with essential business skills but also fosters a sense of empowerment and resilience. With a strong emphasis on mentorship, skill development, networking, and inspiration, our academy serves as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. Join us at the NewGen Beats Entrepreneurial Academy and embark on a journey of empowerment, innovation, and opportunity.
Mentors
NewGen Beats Entrepreneurship Academy leverages the expertise and wisdom of local male mentors dedicated to supporting all components of our program.
X Is Possible advocates for shaping the futures of our young entrepreneurs.
Our mentors are not just advisors; they are beacons of inspiration, offering guidance, encouragement, and real-world insights to our students as they navigate the exciting yet challenging path of entrepreneurship. With diverse backgrounds and experiences, our mentors provide invaluable perspectives that help our students develop essential skills, refine their business ideas, and overcome obstacles along the way. Whether it's through one-on-one guidance from local mentors or accessing virtual mentorship resources, our students have the support they need to thrive and succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors.
Corporate Sponsors
By investing in NewGen Beats Entrepreneurship Academy, corporations and foundations can be confident in the positive impact their contributions have on the lives of young people in our communities.
Our programs at NewGen Beats are designed to fill these gaps by providing comprehensive entrepreneurial education and support to young people who may otherwise lack access to such resources. Through strategic partnerships corporate sponsors create impactful initiatives that empower youth to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations.
state and local governments and workforce development agencies
NewGen Beats Entrepreneurship Academy understands the vital role that funding from state and local governments and workforce development agencies plays in driving meaningful change through investments in community colleges, high schools, and nonprofits.
By investing in NewGen Beats Entrepreneurship Academy, state and local governments can be confident in the positive impact their contributions have on the lives of young people in our communities.
Together, we can bridge the gap in support, empower youth to realize their full potential, and foster a culture of innovation and economic growth. Join us in shaping the future of our communities through youth entrepreneurship.
Community Partners
NewGen Beats Entrepreneurship Academy understands the vital role that community partners play in driving meaningful change through collaborations with community colleges, high schools, and nonprofits. By joining forces with NewGen Beats Entrepreneurship Academy, community organizations can be confident in the positive impact their involvement has on the lives of young people in our communities.
Our programs at NewGen Beats are designed to fill these gaps by providing comprehensive entrepreneurial education and support to young people who may otherwise lack access to such resources.
In addition to our core programs, we partner with community organizations throughout the U.S. to integrate our entrepreneurial training modules and curriculum into various educational and community development programs. We collaborate with educators, community leaders, and mentors who provide guidance for young individuals interested in exploring entrepreneurship.